November News
Bringing Home Puppy #2
Let's not overcomplicate this. It's easy, and the dogs will accept each other at their own pace. I'm sharing my steps when introducing eight-week-old Max to my three older dogs.
Introductions:
The initial meet-and-greet was in the fenced backyard. This allowed the puppy and the older dogs to sniff and play together, with space to move away when they'd had enough. The unstructured meeting created a more relaxed environment for both.
An important reminder: do not reprimand your older dog for establishing his or her boundaroes with a puppy. This may involve growling or snapping. It's okay, the older dog is establishing what begaviours ar acceotable.
This step-by-step guide is based on you introducing a new Old Mill puppy to one also from us. In other words, a similar friendly temperament. If your older dog is a more territorial breed, you must slow down the pace and be more cautious. Initial introductions while on leashes would be a more appropriate approach.
We still need to be cautious of germs, so parks and other public places should be avoided. This is because public places can be breeding grounds for various diseases, and the immune system of a young puppy is not fully developed, making them more susceptible to infections.
Inside
Once they've had a successful outdoor meeting, it's time to bring both dogs into the house. This part requires extra patience and control to prevent any stress or territorial behavior from your older dog.
Using a Pen: I use a playpen inside for the puppy. It's filled with various toys and sits on a waterproof tarp. The older dogs can sniff and visit the puppy before walking away. The playpen is also an excellent housebreaking tool.
Using Leashes: Keep both dogs on their leashes, allowing them space to explore the environment while you maintain control. If you notice any discomfort, such as growling or raised hackles, calmly redirect their attention by calling their names or using a favorite toy, and give them a break by separating them for a short while.
Until the puppy is reliably housebroken, inside playtime at my house is restricted to 10 minutes after a potty break. The brief time was enough for Winston to teach Max the joy of Zoomies—yay! Then it's back to the playpen.
Maintain the Older Dog's Routine and Status
Your older dog is used to being the center of attention, and it's essential to continue their routine to prevent feelings of jealousy.
Keep your older dog's feeding, walking, and playtime routine consistent. Maintaining the older dog's routine also helps him feel secure and less stressed about the new puppy. If changes need to be made to accommodate time for the puppy before you head to work, make the time adjustments a few weeks before the new puppy arrives.
Spend quality time with your older dog without the puppy. This is easily accomplished when the puppy has naptime in the crate for training.
Feeding and Treats
To avoid food-related aggression, feed your dogs separately.
My adult dogs graze, so I feed a new puppy in their playpen and pick up the adult food when they're out together.
Once the puppy was housebroken, I mixed puppy food with the adult food, and they all grazed on the same dish. This lazy human was happy.
My dogs eat Taste of the Wild dog food. The puppy formulation is so similar to the adult food, blending wasn't a health concern.
To help establish the hierarchy, I give treats from oldest to youngest. This means I give treats to the oldest dog first, then the second oldest, and so on. If I were placing food dishes, I would do the same. This practice helps to maintain order and prevent conflicts over food, as dogs are pack animals and naturally follow a hierarchy.
Patience is key. Some dogs will become instant besties; others will take a month or two. Remember, each dog is unique, and their relationships will unfold in their own time.
Nursery News
Available:
The last pick brown/white male mini sproodle
The last pick black/white male mini sproodle
Coming Soon
Moyen sproodles due mid-December
Begging is about to Commence
Can Haves
fresh carrots
fresh green beans
corn - no cob
pumpkin
sweet potatoes
skinless/boneless turkey
Can Not Haves
canned cranberry sauce
chocolate
garlic
grapes
ham
leeks
mashed potatoes
onions
raisins
pie filling
stuffing
sweet potato cassarole
Happy Thanksgiving!