Getting a puppy in these crazy times

[Anonymous]

We have a specific breed of dog and have been debating a second for a while, but I was adamant about going the rescue route and this particular breed is not prominent in rescues. Well, there are some puppies available so I spontaneously put in an application...and were accepted!

With how crazy everything is at the moment (we are not feds, but still) not sure if this is the best idea...but it seemed sort of meant to be.

Any tips for acclimating a puppy and an existing dog welcome!

[Anonymous]

Aww! Congrats on the new family member!

Keep intros short and positive. give high-value treats to both animals; meet and greets mean special treats! Give each their own corner of the home for several weeks. Do not contain the existing dog (beyond their normal patterns and access to the home). Crate the puppy so it's only out under supervision. First stop is always outside to potty so there aren't messes (and "territory marking") to bother the existing dog. Puppy should be on a leash at all times until it has recall and verbal obedience. Older puppies with some experience can drag their leash.

Always leave the older dog an escape. They should never be forced to engage the puppy. They will growl and possibly nip at the puppy; this shouldn't be punished. They are communicating "hey, back off" in their native language, and it will teach the puppy far faster than you can. Be sure you spend plenty of time with your existing dog, and maybe give them some extra treats and toys. Not sure what breed they are, but most are capable of resenting a change in circumstances and you don't want the older dog to resent the pup. They should feel like life got even better when the puppy showed up; make sure they still get plenty of attention.

[Anonymous]

Depends-to an extent-on the breed of each dog.

[Anonymous]

We just got a puppy and have a 5year old little dog. The puppy definitely plays hard with the older dog so we need to intervene and help the smaller dog. We keep them away from each other and the puppy in a crate at night. The older dog definitely benefits though with more treats. And I think he likes the puppy in small doses! Good luck. Having a puppy is hard!

[Anonymous]

Good luck. A puppy is the last thing I would want in this day and age. Particularly with an already settled dog.

[Anonymous]

What’s your question?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:What’s your question?

Maybe you missed it, but this is the last sentence of the OP.

Any tips for acclimating a puppy and an existing dog welcome!

[Anonymous]

Crate train from day 1.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Crate train from day 1.

100 percent. Especially with another dog in the house.