How to introduce a new puppy to an older dog that plays rough?

Question

I have a 2 year old pitbull he gets very excited when other dogs come around and shows little aggression to big dogs. I am getting a 7 week old puppy in a week. I wanted advice on how to introduce them and what behavior should be tolerated. I am worried my older dog will want to play to rough with the puppy. Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Male | neutered | 1 year and 1 month old | 75 lbs

Dr. Macartney, BVet Med, MRCVS · Accepted Answer

Below is some information to help you with the introduction process. Congratulations on your new puppy. If you do notice Tyson behaving aggressively sweperate then immediately. The most effective long term plan will be to reward Tyson when he is "gentle" with the puppy. Have that word as your command goal. Bringing a new puppy or dog into the home can be a great way to help revitalize your older dog's routine. Many owners often find that a second dog can help reduce stress and anxiety, and provide a playmate for their current dog. When introducing your new dog, taking things slow and following the below steps will best ensure the two dogs get along from the start! Provide a Personal Space Before ever bringing home your new dog, be sure to set aside a personal space for both the new dog and your old. This can include spaces such as a crate your dogs feel comfortable in, separate food and water bowls, and enough bedding for the two to each have their own spot at any time. Making sure there are multiples of prized objects can help reduce some of the competition over them and prevent a fight. Start the Introduction Behind Closed Doors Your dogs may have already met at the shelter or breeder, however starting off with a barrier between the two will help them to get to know each other without a fight. If your dogs get along great off the bat you may be able to skip this step, however if your dogs are a little nervous, placing a door, screen or baby gate between the two can help. This will allow them to get used to the sight and smell of each other without being able to cause harm. Monitor Meetings After the two dogs are used to each other through a visible gate, an introduction can begin. It is good to place leashes on each dog and keep the leashes dragging in case of an argument or if one dog becomes agitated. If at any time a fight occurs or someone becomes nervous, a leash can easily be grabbed on each dog to separate them until a later time. If they get along well, continue the session and end on a positive note. If at any time either dog becomes upset or agitated, separate the two and try again later. Don't worry if they don't get along right away, sometimes it takes a bit of time! Supervision is Key Until you are positive your dogs will get along great, make sure they are supervised when together at all times. This may also include picking up any contested toys or bones as well as monitoring the use of food or water dishes. If you do have to leave your dogs alone, it is best to separate them in different rooms or crates until you are sure they will get along well while you are away. Give Everyone Some Love! Having two dogs is a great way for your previous dog to have a new companion and to prevent boredom and increase exercise. However, each dog should also have some personal time with you without your newer (or older) dog there. Set aside time for a short training session or just some petting and grooming while your other dog is occupied with a bone or toy. Making sure each of your dogs new and old get some love will help keep your bond strong!

How to introduce a new puppy to an older dog that plays rough?

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