My older dog is attacking our new puppy. How do I stop the aggression?

Question

Hello, I have a six year old shitzu/poodle and just got a new puppy. She is female and he is a male yorkie mix. My six year old is not accepting this puppy at all. Its been almost a month and its getting worse. The shitzu is explosive with the puppy.I'm trying to give her more attention but nothing helps. I fear she will hurt the puppy. Help! I'm almost thinking i need to rehome this puppy. Thanks! Lisa

Stacey Anstaett, DVM · Accepted Answer

I’m sorry she’s having a hard time with the puppy!! Sometimes puppies are a lot for an older dog to take. I would recommend that you get together with a trainer for some sessions for the puppy and for your older dog... this will likely be well worth your time and money. Give that a try before de-homing the pup. It can take months for acceptance to occur, and they may never be best friends but may be able to be compatible roommates with time. Give your older dog some “breaks”’from the puppy. Put the puppy in a kennel for a while, or better yet send the puppy with a friend, roommate or family member to get some good playtime in, (hopefully for the puppy to come home tired!) while you and the older dog have some one on one time—cuddle with her on the couch, play with her or take her for a walk just the two of you. It may also help to make a new routine—leave the puppy home in a kennel and take the older dog for short walk once or twice a day, even just 10 minutes will help... and do it at the same time each day... if she knows she will dependably get some “alone” time with you, that may ease her irritability as well. I really hope that information helps you ... Good luck with them both! Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

My older dog is attacking our new puppy. How do I stop the aggression?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?

How to keep a pet mom and her newborn babies warm and calm?

My hamster is suddenly bloated, angry, and biting. What should I do?

Dog licking paws, fur loss, and jaw wound: Could it be allergies?

Is there a chart for dog food protein biological value and digestibility?

Share