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Older dog frightened of new puppy

19 10:28:09

Question
Hi Labman We have a 5 year old rather timid male cocker (Patch). We have just bought a 8 week year old female cocker (Molly). We introduced Molly to Patch slowly, but everytime she goes near him he snarls, growls and rushes off to another part of the house. Molly will chase after him, jump up at him and even bark at him. She does not seem frightened of him, but she does tend to temporarily back off. However, Patch will not even walk past her box (where she sleeps etc). He seems very unhappy and we would appreciate any help you can offer.

Answer
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.