Will Older Dog Hurt New Puppy?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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While many dogs will welcome a new with open paws, many more will growl, snap and try to get away from the puppy from the onset. However,

it is VERY rare for an adult dog to hurt a puppy

.

Should I let my older dog growl at my puppy?


Don't suppress the older dog's growl


A growl

, and air snap to tell the puppy that he's crossed boundaries are normal. If, however, your older dog truly seems aggressive to the puppy, get professional help. Don't let them be together until any issues have been resolved.

How long does it take for an older dog to adjust to a new puppy?

It can take

up to one month

for an old dog and new dog to really settle in and accept each other's position in the pack. If you want a second dog, you need to be ready to commit to this process and not panic.

How do I teach my puppy to respect my older dog?

The Reinforce Respect Method


Exercise and play with your pup to burn off some energy then bring pup on a leash near your older dog

. When your pup notices your older dog, distract your puppy. Make a funny noise and call your puppy over. Ask him to sit or lie down and ignore the older dog.

How do I stop my dog from being jealous of a new puppy?

  1. Keep notes on the circumstances that cause signs of jealousy/aggression. …
  2. Don't give one pet more attention than another.
  3. Help your dog feel safe and relaxed in their crate so they see it as their own safe space. …
  4. Feed pets separately to avoid conflict during mealtimes.

How can I get my dog to bond with my new puppy?

  1. Tip #1: Have an Extra Set of Hands. …
  2. Tip #2: Have Separate Spaces for the Dogs for the First Week. …
  3. Tip #3: Reward Good Behavior. …
  4. Tip #4: Be Patient and Calm. …
  5. Tip #5: Be Aware.

Do older dogs get jealous of new puppies?


Many older dogs will be upset, jealous, or even angry with a new puppy

, especially if the older dog has been an only dog. It's going to be important to make sure the older dog gets lots (more than normal) of attention to alleviate potential hurt feelings.

Do dogs get jealous of new dogs?

New Pets.

Introducing a new pet may leave your dog feeling jealous

. The best way to avoid jealousy in your pet is to make sure that you're giving it enough love, exercise, attention and interaction, even if you have another pet at home.

Is my dog mad at me for getting another dog?

Your dog is used to being your companion, and

if there are other dogs that are taking you away, they are going to act upset, jealous, and even angry

. This new puppy is also on their territory, and they may feel like their life is in jeopardy. This behavior is perfectly normal.

How do I get my older dog to stop growling at my puppy?

Manage the Environment. Often, the most efficient way to eliminate undesirable behaviors is to prevent their occurrence in the first place. So if your older dog growls when the puppy comes near his food or toys,

feed them in separate areas and do not give toys when they are spending time together

.

Why is my puppy attacking my older dog?

It's no secret that dogs compete for our attention.

If you have a younger dog that's noticing that your older dog is getting extra love, it could cause a bit of jealousy

. If jealousy issues arise, it's not uncommon for the younger dog to attack the older dog as a means of competing for affection.

Are dogs happier with another dog?

Dogs are social animals and

usually happier around other dogs

, but a second dog will never be a substitute for inattentive, absent or too busy owners.

Do older dogs like puppies?

Dogs are like people and have distinct opinions about what they like and what they do not. Despite best efforts,

the older dog may not like the addition of a puppy, no matter its sex

. When first introducing the pair, exercise care and take it slowly.

Will my dog warm up to my new puppy?

Do not expect that the dogs will love each other at the first meeting. If they do, great, but

often it takes a while for one or the other to warm up

. If things are going well, though, and the dogs are at least tolerating each other, you can bring the new dog into the household.

Will an older dog help train a puppy?

We have all heard the adage: “with age comes wisdom.”

If you already have an older dog and are introducing a new pack member, much can be learned from the senior dog

. Just like older siblings teach the younger kids both good and bad habits, so too do dogs.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.