Start With Scent Before Sight
Dogs learn a lot through smell. Before the face-to-face meeting, swap a blanket or toy between your resident dog and the new puppy so each gets used to the other's scent. This makes the first real meeting feel far less surprising.
Introduce on Neutral Territory
Don't bring the puppy straight into your resident dog's space. Meet on neutral ground — a quiet yard or park — with both dogs on leash. Keep greetings short and calm, then take a walk together so they associate the new puppy with something positive.
Separate Resources
Resource guarding is the most common source of conflict. Until you know them well together:
- Feed in separate areas, ideally different rooms
- Separate high-value items like bones, chews, and special toys
- Give each dog their own bed and water bowl
- Pick up toys during early introductions to avoid squabbles
Supervise Every Interaction
For the first few weeks, watch every interaction closely. If either dog seems stressed, separate them calmly and try again later. Short, positive sessions are better than long, forced ones. Don't leave them alone together until you're confident they're comfortable.
Crates & Safe Spaces
Both dogs need a retreat. Your resident dog should keep their usual safe spot, and the puppy should have a crate or playpen for downtime and when you can't supervise. A crate isn't punishment — it's a peaceful place each dog can go to decompress.
Be Patient
Adjustment takes time — often several weeks. Your resident dog may seem annoyed, withdrawn, or extra needy at first. That's normal. Keep their routine as consistent as possible, give them one-on-one attention, and let the relationship build at its own pace.
