Hello everyone
Since discovering Champdogs a couple of weeks ago I have visited this Forum daily and marvelled at the breadth of knowledge and experience you have between you but this will be the first time I have posted.
I have a collie X bitch who is just lovely, no problems at all. As she was a rescue I am not certain of her age but would put it at about l year. So she is still a babe herself. In three weeks I am having an 8 week old dog puppy and would be most grateful for any advice you can give to help me avoid known pitfalls when introducing a new puppy into an established doggy home. Many thanks.
Georgina

Can't help you on that one- sorry- someone else will be more than able and willing to help you though. What breed are you getting?:) I'm getting an 8 week old puppy in three weeks too- a German Shepherd bitch:)

Stacey x x x

Hi to you hope you come here often or better still join up . kindest Regards

Hi, most dogs will happily accept a young puppy, especialy one of the opposite sex. I would introduce them in the garden, and always re-assure the older one that they are still "top dog" and try not to change the old dogs routine too much. Personally, I would crate a new puppy overnight in the same room as the other dog, to begin with so they can get used to each other safely, while you are in bed/out for a couple of hours, without the older dog being pestered by the puppy and invading her bed/toys. The older one may have to admonish the puppy a little, to show its status and superiority, as long as the puppy is not actually hurt - though there may be the odd yelp of surprise, try to stay "out of it" as much as possible. Its very rare that a socialised dog of good temperament, in my experience will actually hurt a puppy as young as this, and they will almost certainly be the best of friends very quickly if you handle the situation calmly. Good luck with your new baby. What breed is he?

Welcome to the forum Georgina :-)

I agree with WL's advice, although I would add that you need to make sure that the puppy does not harass the older dog. Sometimes older dogs will not tell puppies off and if this is the case, then you need to intercept. As your older dog is still very young there shouldn't be a problem.

Now you have taken the plunge and posted, maybe you would like to join us ;-)

Good luck with your puppy!