wanting new kitten and dog to get along

Question
Hi Norman, I am needing some advice. 2 days ago, we were given a lovely 12 week old male kitten. We already have 2 dogs and we seem to have a little trouble with the kitten and our female dog getting along. During the day they both tend to ignore eachother but for some reason at night, my dog is wanting to smell the kitten and will follow his every move. The kitten will swipe and hiss at the dog which then causes my dog to snap back. I am really wanting them to be able to get along but really worried that the dog may hurt the kitten even though the dog only reacts when the kitten swipes at her. Please help as I really dont want to have to find a new home for the kitten as my children have become very attatched.
Sherilyn

Answer
Shrilyn,

The best thing to do is to let them work it out amongst themselves.  As long as no one gets hurt, I would leave them together and try not to separate them, if at all possible.  At 12 weeks, the kitten can fend for itself pretty well.

You will have to have much patience as the getting to know each other process can go relatively smoothly or go in fits and starts.  At any rate, it usually takes some weeks before all works out one way or another.

Try to make sure you show lots of affection to the dogs whenever you are playing with the kitten so the dogs do not get jealous.

Best regards... Norm.