New puppy and elderly dog

Question
Hi,

I have a 13 year old female dog, who is a cross between a Glen of Imaal terrier and a German Sherperd. I have been thinking of getting a West Highland Terrier puppy but I am anxious as to how my 13 year old dog will react to the new puppy.

When my dog was younger she wouldn't tolerate any dog around her or on her territory. When bringing her to the vet's clinic she would bark agressively at the other dogs. Now due to her old age she is much quieter.

My uncle brought his new male puppy to my home and my dog just sniffed the puppy and walked away and when the puppy wanted to play my dog ran away. However, one evening a few months back, a dog entered my garden and my dog ran after it chasing it away.

I don't know wether she will tolerate a new puppy or not.
I am concerned that she will hurt the puppy as she is not well socialised and it is her territory. It has always been just her and my family, she might be over attached to being the only-dog.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this e-mail.
Rachael.


Answer
Likely she won't like having a new puppy.  Once past 3 years old, many dogs don't want anything to do with puppies, their sharp little teeth, and their biting games.  You need to teach the puppy to leave the older dog alone.  As soon as the puppy starts to focus on the older dog, give it a sharp ''Ah, ah, ah!'' and offer it a chew toy.  

You have a better chance of her tolerating a male than a female.  Be ready to accept the 2 of them leaving each oher alone as the best they will do.