Bringing home a younger dog when there’s an older one in the house can be a heart-wrenching decision. Will our seniors feel like they are being replaced? Will they get along?
Sometimes, it’s best to trust our instincts and seize the opportunity. When we do, it’s usually one of life’s greatest rewards.
Watch a beautiful story of a new friendship in a video posted on January 19:
@our3labradorsThey’ve been out there all morning #snowdogs #labrador #labsoftiktok #brothers #our3labs
Having the ground covered in the cold snow doesn’t look so bad when dogs are enjoying it. Little Linq is having a blast playing with his new big brother. And he’s making this senior lab feel like a kid again. They take turns chasing and play biting as they plow through the snow! A puppy does a great job of reminding an older dog how to have fun again.
Related: Senior Dog’s Special Bond with New Puppy Is One for the Ages
Preparing for a new puppy
Even if your pooch loves other dogs, having a space just for them and another for the puppy is essential. We should also pick up their favorite toys and bones to prevent potential aggression. It’s also best to have separate food and water bowls to avert resource guarding.
Introducing a new puppy
The Humane Society of North Texas recommends introducing new dogs on neutral territory, and they urge keeping the initial introduction brief. Please don’t hold the puppy in your arms during this meeting. They also advise keeping both dogs on a leash: “However, let them sniff and meet each other; there’s no need to hold them tightly to your side. You don’t want them to feel restricted, tense, or stressed.” If we are anxious, our dogs will probably pick up on our emotions. They also suggest we closely monitor how our dogs interact for the first few weeks—looking for signs of potential aggression, like a hunched back, prolonged stares, snarling, or showing teeth. Giving each dog time to acclimate to each other is also critical.
Viewer @JeanneGarber responded, “For anyone who says their old dog doesn’t need a puppy, I say you are wrong. All old dogs need the joy of a puppy.” And @our3labradors concurred, “Yes! Our two seniors love Linq so much.” Dogs have a beautiful way of welcoming another member of the family.
Although we may worry about adding a new pup to the family, dogs rarely hesitate to show them their love. Sometimes, all it takes is a little time to adjust to the new energy that’s now inside their home.
