My shih tzu is 3 1/2 yrs. She is ok with dogs out walking on and off the lead but she doesn't seem to know how to play with them. My daughter has just got a puppy and you can see she wants to play but just won't join in. She sneaks up when the other one isn't looking to check her out. I just hope they can learn to play together as I shall be looking after  the puppy quite a bit. Any suggestions please

On our Shih Tzu forum owners talk about this all the time. It takes up to three weeks of checking out the new dog/puppy and being around him before the play comes into action....Give her time, together they will figure it out and they will become best friends

I really hope so as I shall be looking after puppy for holidays etc.

Important point.  This is obviously a biggie for you.  Please stop worrying, as you are only going to pass your anxiety on to your girl, so causing problems.

I have had puppy for the day today and all going good. My shih tzu is keeping her distance unless puppy isn't looking and she sneaks up on her so I feel sure all will be well

Thats good news, curiosity is good and she will come around just wait and see

Do bear in mind that not all dogs want to play with other dogs. Especially puppies.

I think we have got to the point that they are friendly towards each other and that's fine by me. Obviously my shih tzu isn't as lively as the golden doodle but I think they will be fine in tine