When a puppy joins the family ...

[Maureen Barry]

Within the past few weeks, someone had posted to the
List with a number of questions regarding bringing a
puppy into a home with an existing dog. In particular,
I remember a question about confining the older dog,
e.g. in the kitchen, to keep the pup company versus
letting the older dog keep his routine by sleeping
wherever he wants.

I don't recall seeing any posts responding to the
original message. Since I will be in the same position
in the coming months, bringing a new puppy into my
home with my 2 1/2-year-old BMD Jake, I was wondering
what sort of advice - aside from not upsetting Jake's
routine too much and making sure he doesn't feel
ousted as top dog - the more experienced Listers could
offer. In particular, advice regarding sleeping
arrangements, as mentioned above, would be
appreciated.

Many thanks.

Maureen Barry
Montreal (Quebec)

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Re: When a puppy joins the family ...

[Molly Bass]

Hi Maureen et al

When I add a new pup not of my own breeding, it has its space in the house 
and the older dogs get their space. The pup needs to learn its independence 
and has plenty of time to be with the older dog. I do not shut the older 
dog away from the pup so it can keep the pup company if it wants, but I do 
not force that company. Even with pups of my own breeding, the pups sleep 
in the kitchen in their crates at night and the adults have the run of the 
house as always. This has worked well for me now and I am working on my 6th 
and 7th berner pups.

Molly and the gang
Charlottesville, VA