Going away

Question
Hi,
We are going away 4 a week. Other dog owners that we know want to look after our 7 mouths old Pushon (Lexi) and in return we will look after their 12 years old Coley x ?? x?, a much older and bigger dog. They also have a cat. I suggested to take Lexi to their house 2 see if the dogs (and the cat...) get on well. They said it is better just to bring Lexi on the day we go away and she will be all right. I know the family they are nice people, but I am worried. Do we need to go there with Lexi few days before we go away?? How do we know where is a good place to leave Lexi for few days?  Thanks

Answer
I agree it would be wise for Lexi to meet Coley before committing to a week.  Once past 3 years old, many dogs don't want anything to do with puppies, their sharp little teeth, and their biting games. Lexi and Coley may need separated the whole week.  Lexi and the cat may not do well together either.  

It may be things will go smoothly.  We have a 9 year old Lab and a 6 month old one.  I am quite pleased how well they are doing together.  The 9 year old only came to live with us recently.  He has been a frequent visitor most of his life, and may not realize this time is for good.  We have nearly always had a puppy to play with.  How much experience does Coley have with puppies?  The bottom line is that things may or may not go well.  Much of it will depend on your friends and how often they have had visiting puppies and are they ready to cope with Lexi annoying Coley.  When we go someplace we can't take our dog, we often leave it with friends.  We have never had any problems.