So, you've decided to bring home another dog to love and care for but have you thought about how you are going to introduce the new puppy to your older resident dog? Some older dogs will have no problem welcoming a new addition to the pack however, some dogs may need just a little bit more time to get used to this new puppy that is so full of energy.
Follow these tips below to help make it a pleasant experience for everyone and very soon all of your dogs will be the best of buddies.
1.
If you do have more than one dog, only introduce the puppy to one new pet at a time.
2.
If possible, before the initial meeting of the two dogs, have a towel with the new puppies scent on it and allow your older dog to smell it before he meets the new puppy.
You can even do this days ahead of time leading up to the first introduction.
3.
Because dogs are territorial by nature, introduce the new puppy and your resident dog on neutral territory such as a park or school but arrive in two separate vehicles.
4.
If you think there might be a slight chance of your older dog getting a little too excited at the initial meeting of the puppy, then take him on a long walk to drain some of that energy beforehand.
Remember, a tired dog is a good dog! 5.
When letting your older dog see the puppy for the first time, carefully let them sniff each other.
If your older dog is a large breed, sit down on a bench and hold the puppy in your lap while having someone else walk your older dog up to the puppy.
During this initial meeting, always watch for signs of aggression of the older dog that would include:

• Staring
• Barred teeth or growling
• Ears laid back or raised hair on the neck or back
• Body leaning forward, standing taller

6.
If you see any signs of aggression, immediately remove your puppy from this situation.
Take the older dog for a little walk or go play ball for while.
After this little break, try introducing them again.
7.
If your initial introduction went well, they might be familiar with each others scent however, it doesn't mean they're best friends quite yet.
It will take time for that to happen, but eventually they will like each other and your new puppy will be accepted as one of the pack.
8.
Most importantly, never allow your puppy to be alone with your older dog for at least a couple of months.
Even though it may seem as though your older dog might be getting along with the puppy quite well, remember things are different when you (the pack leader) are not there.
When the pack leader is away, another dog will now try to take the pack leader's place and most likely it will be the older dog trying to do so.
Always separate them when you cannot be there watching them; a crate is a great place for a new puppy to feel safe and secure and stay out of trouble.