Help with introducing new puppy

Question
QUESTION: Hello,

My wife and I have a 3 year old Maltese named Sam. Today we rescued a little beagle mix puppy and we are having a hard time getting Sam to be near the new puppy Boomer. We tried to have my wife hold him while I introduced Boomer but Sam lunged at him and tried to bite him. It was not playful at all. At that time we told Sam NO and put our hand over his nose.

How do we get Sam adjusted to this new little puppy? He seems interested but almost seems scared of the puppy.

Please help.

Thanks

Brandon


Pet Nurse Marie's dog   ANSWER: Hello Brandon, a new puppy for Sam will take some time -
Have them in two areas that they can see each other but not touch.
Also, put them on a leash and introduce by walking by at a 5 foot distance.  Then, slowly walk  closer and closer...

We have some great behavior experts that can help better than I.
Go to our Dog Behavior Experts under Dogs...

BEST wishes to you all!

Marie Peppers
My personal site:
http://www.apluspetcare.com/untitled4.html

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: First want to thank you for the advice it seems to be working pretty good. The two now play together and 99% of the time it is great.

Here is my follow up question Sam the Maltese has for sure taken the alpha role and boomer is very passive. Tonight boomer tried to get the same bone that Sam had and Sam bit his ear and drew blood. How do we get Sam not to be so Alpha with the puppy. That said I can take anything out of Sams mouth and he does not so much as growl but he is very aggressive towards other dogs and specially boomer.

Or Should I ask this to someone else? Thanks

Thanks again for the help.

Answer

Marie Peppers / NuVet   Hi guys -  Well, the minute that "Mr.Sam" bit little Boomer you should have given him a time out. Say No and place him in another room or crate... Give him No attention for 10 minutes.
He should get the idea after a few Time Outs..

Good luck guys!


Marie Peppers LPN MA





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