Ask a behaviourist
How to introduce your new puppy to your dog?
My sister has just adopted a young puppy called Jazz. I really want Jazz and my dog Monty to get along, but Monty doesn’t seem to like her at all. What can I do?
We need to remember that puppies are still learning to behave. They can be excessive and demanding, which some older dogs find disruptive. Firstly, it is important for Jazz to learn good manners, and to respect Monty’s tolerance levels. Your sister can do this by always rewarding Jazz with a treat for calm behaviour, like “sit and wait” and eventually Jazz will learn this is a desirable way to act.
Secondly, both Jazz and Monty need to associate each other’s presence as positive. A good way to do this is if you and your sister take Jazz and Monty for a short walk on lead together. Then during the walk sporadically call the puppy and give them a treat. This way Jazz will learn to focus on your sister, and Monty won’t feel threatened by an over exuberant puppy. Having good verbal control to redirect too much exuberance is essential to teach good manners and protect the older dog from being pestered!
Sensible and stable older dogs will usually be quite competent at interacting with a young puppy.
For example, they will initiate play and contact. It is not appropriate if Jazz is the only one initiating play, and if Monty only growls, snarls, and avoids Jazz, then you need to respect his wishes and give him space.
The most important thing when introducing Jazz and Monty is reading their body language. The signs to be aware of are body posture, avoidance, growling or snapping. If a dog is showing signs of stiffness, lip licking or whites of eyes you need to stop the interaction. A low growl is an appropriate reprimand, but you must never let interactions continue to the point of snapping or attempting to bite. Jazz must learn to read other dogs’ body language, and positive and safe meetings of sensible older dogs will be essential for Jazz’s upbringing.
Keep in mind that some older dogs might have health problems, or are just too old. So it is not suitable for them to be around a bouncy puppy.