Older dog chewing on new puppy

Question
We have brought a new puppy into our home.  Our 2 year older dog seems to accept her, plays with her, warns her away from "her bone", guards her from the cats, etc.  The behavior I notice is that the older dog often corners the puppy and somewhat gently chews on her, up and down the puppy's back, behind the ears, etc.  It is an almost obsessive behavior on the part of the older dog.  I can only guess at possible reasons - is she smelling fleas (we bathed the puppy already)?  Is it something mother puppies do to their babies?  We have always fixed our animals and I do not have any experience with mother dog behaviors. I need to know if I should correct the older dog's behavior or let it go its course. Any insight you can give me is most appreciated!  Thank you in advance and have a great new year.  

Answer

Hi Lynn,

It sounds to me like your older dog is playing when it gently chews on the puppy's back. During this chewing does the puppy cry out, or otherwise show it's displeasure? If the puppy quietly accepts this, there is no harm in allowing it. You can after a reasonable amount of time tell your older dog "okay, that's enough" and make him or her stop the chewing. Divert your older dog's attention from the puppy with a favorite toy, or treat, and praise the older dog when it complies.

I hope that helps.
Best of luck,

Patti