housemate

Question
QUESTION: We are thinking about getting a Jack Russell puppy, he is only 6 weeks old so we still have some waiting time. We have a 11 year old  Dachshund and are a little concerned about the Jacks temperament with other dogs. Will it make a difference if he is brought into our home as a puppy?  Already love this pup, but want to make sure we are making a good decision.

ANSWER: Hi Rhonda,

Puppies are naturally rambunctious and curious - and he will most likely annoy your Dachshund at some point. I would be more concerned with the Dachshunds reaction to the puppy rather than the temperament of the Jack. Jack Russells are brilliant and he will learn and react to how you train him. There are a few minor things you can do to make his move into the house a little easier on the Dachshund. Have them meet outside on neutral ground, maybe at a park or something. Let them play and get to know eachother a little bit outside of the home first.  
When you get home, let the Dachshund lead the puppy into the house.  This establishes pecking order and also helps the puppy know his place in the pack. Make sure each dog has it's OWN bed, own bowl, own toys. Don't share anything of the Dachshunds with the puppy YET. You don't want the Dachshund thinking that he/she is being replaced by the puppy, and you want to teach the puppy some boundaries. Make sure to give equal attention to each dog and then spend some alone time with each dog so that they feel "special".  Your Dachshund will immediately keep the puppy in line if there is something that he is doing that annoys him, and the puppy will know what is allowed and not allowed. It's amazing and fun to watch. Dogs only learn what they are taught, so start early with the Jack and he/she you will have a great relationship all around!! Good luck and congratulations on your new puppy!

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QUESTION: We also have a guinea pig. She is in a cage in my daughters bedroom. The things I have been reading on the Internet are making me a little leery. The information makes it seem like Jack Russells are out of control, untrainable dogs that kill and maim other animals. But I prefer to get my information from an actual jack owner with experience with animals. The parents were both there when we went to see the puppy. They seemed calm and very nice. We came in with the whole family.  Please help us! We are so confused at this point.

Answer
Hi Rhonda,
SO HAPPY I could help!!!
Enjoy your new little guy!!
Congratulations!!
Would love to see a pic when you can!
Take care
Carol