This is the first of many questions I have buzzing around my head at the moment.......:)

We already have a handsome chap and we go to collect the fluffy one in 2 weeks and 6 days (still nameless I might add). When should I set up pups new bed? On the day that we collect him? A couple of days before? Or when we get back with him?

Anita

Well anita if you were expecting me I think you would have the bed ready for me I THINK :d So yes get your dogs bed ready and in a place that is going to be the dogs space . lol Marie

A bed would be ready for you anytime Mari, especially if you brought the crinkly one:D

Didn't put my post well did I? I am worried about my other dog 'moving in' and then being a bit put out when he finds out it's not for him! I know it will be smaller but believe me he will probably give it his best shot!

Anita

Hi what I would do the night before is set up the bed ready for your new friend to arrive next day so the young one knows this is his bed and the older one knows not to go near the bed as it's not his! Blimey good luck!

Julieann

Thanks, don't get me wrong when the pup is actually here the older one will be fine (well hopefully) and will understand, I was just worried that his nose will be put out of joint that something dog related has entered the house and it's not for him!

Anita

Anita relax if you are fine with the other dog then you will be fine with the new baby . I do suggest though that you have a cage for when you are not around . It could save you grief the long run. I dont like dogs reared in crates but they certainly have their uses. best wishes Mari

Yes I do plan to use a crate for when I'm not around, my dog has the patience of a saint but everyone has their limit and I don't want him to reach his when I am not around!

I really should just relax....bring on the drink......

Mari, I have never been a great fan of crates (not that i object to them in anyway - got one for cleo when she was a pup, but never really used it) I know that the pup will need to be seperated from cleo when i am not around, but was planning more to get a baby gate, or couple of foot of partician so that they can see each other but not get together. Do you all think this will work as well as a crate?

Cleo as I said crates have their uses . I would prefer to use the crate when I am out . you never know what can happen to a gate . what breed have you cleo so sorry I forget. so many breeds .If you have a large dog he could get over the crate , some small dogs can climb. a pom for instance.they can climb . So I would be happier to use a crate untill I saw what way things were going . I did say I prefer not to make a crate their permanent home but everything used in the proper way can be a tremendous help. but I am not saying dont use a gate cleo that is entirely up to you . At the end of the day you know what system suits you best. best wishes Mari

I looked at using a gate but unfortunately the only place suitable to put it left my current dog with the smaller space:D Also we do have to do long car journeys so it will be useful for then and boy can the poodle jump:D