Older Dog with a New Puppy

Question
Hi Jennifer!

I was wondering if it would be a good idea to adopt a new puppy when we already have a 10 year old female German Shepherd named Jenna. She is a very friendly and lovable dog! She is fine with other dogs but whenever we have another dog come over to visit, she tends to herd the dog and will follow her around the house. Will she ever stop that if we got another dog? I don't want Jenna to feel like she is being replaced because she is older, and become upset and jealous. Is it good for older dogs to have companions?

Thank you!

Rachel

Answer
Hi Rachel,

Older dogs who like companions, should have companions. I can't say what's right for you or Jenna. As long as Jenna isn't aggressive with dogs that visit your home, the chances are pretty good that she will get used to a new dog you welcome into your home.  Herding the puppy or following the puppy is okay, it might bug you but a puppy will just accept it. Many times it takes a month or so before a new dog or puppy is fully accepted by an older resident dog, and when that happens I'd bet the herding behaviors will end.

Your concerns about being jealous are justified, you will need to spend extra one-on-one time with Jenna, so she don't feel jealous. That means extra walks, taking her on errands, grooming time, and play time - all without the puppy present. Of course, you'd also need to have supervised activities with both dogs, as you work to build a bond between them, but that takes time and you can't rush forming these bond.

First meetings are important. Here's how to introduce an older dog to a new puppy:

http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/our_pets_for_life_program/dog_behavior_tip_she...

http://helpwithpettraining.com/introducing-older-dog-to-new-puppy.php

http://www.the-puppy-dog-place.com/introducing-a-new-puppy.html

Best of luck,

Patti