Socializing a new pup

[WP99ND06]

Quick question for the board: We're getting our new pup in a couple weeks, and I am wondering the best way to socialize her with our current 18 month old lab. Both are female, and I've heard that can cause problems once their full-grown, but I would just like to know if there are any tips or concerns I should know about as I bring the new pup into our home. Any thoughts or advice is greatly appreciated!

B

[mitziandjudysmom]

I know many people advise introducing on neutral territory, but I have always introduced new puppies in the yard. There's no telling how the 18month lab will react, but I'm guessing that she will be thrilled to have a playmate, or she may turn into a mother. Having two females should not be a problem -my two females love each other. There are many two-female and two-male pairs on JL. Keep us posted. (with pictures)

[Dani]

When I inturoduced my 4 year old to my (then) 8 week old (both males)...I basically put them in the yard together. They sniffed, Rookie tried to chew on Rider's ears, Rider ran off. Rookie pesters Rider, but they are settling in after 4 months together...they wrestle a lot and Rider still reminds Rookie that he's low on the totem pole.

If your dog is pretty well behaved and has a great temperment, it should be a non-issue.

[HersheyK's Dad]

I get so nervous when I read about a pup being introduced into an environment with an adult dog. There are so many way to address it, and I don't know that one is better than another.

But based on my traumatic experience, (the two dogs involved are best friend now), do not let the two dogs out of your sight and instant reach. It only takes a second for the wrong stimulus to happen and the adult dog to injure the puppy. By reflex reaction, accident, or intentional.

I would feed separately for months until I was absolutely certain it would be safe to feed together.

[WP99ND06]

All - thanks for the responses. I think I will first introduce the pup in a crate, and eventually move them into the yard with the older dog on a leash. I will be sure to update with photos once she arrives!

[vgariffo]

Thanks for this thread. Bo's mom is expecting and we're planning on getting a little brother for him. Bo will be almost 2 when we bring the little guy home. Bo loves every thing and every body so much I don't think it'll be a problem. Also expect to take Bo with us to meet his mom's litter.