Ask the AKC Animal Behaviorist: Introducing a Puppy to an Older Dog

Mar 3rd 2010

Meet Mary Burch, American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Director and Paw Nation's new expert columnist addressing your questions on animal behavior. Dr. Burch has over 25 years of experience working with dogs and she is one of less than 50 Certified Applied Animal Behaviorists based in the United States. She is the author of nine books, more than 200 articles and has been a lobbyist on legislation concerning hazardous dogs and responsible dog ownership.

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Dear Dr. Burch,
We have an 11-year old pit bull/heeler mix and a small three-year-old mixed breed. I'd like to adopt a Doberman pinscher puppy -- I've had two in the past and I love the breed. We are an older couple and this will probably be our last dog. Is it fair to our older dog to bring in a puppy? Am I being selfish? I am retired and have a lot of time on my hands, but I worry that our big dog might get depressed if I bring in another big dog. I don't want our dogs to think that they are being replaced.

Dr. Burch Says: This is a situation that could turn out fine or it could be a real mess. First, you mention that you will be adding a puppy to your home. In many ways, this makes it easier for older dogs to adapt. The key is making sure you aren't so caught up with a new puppy that the older dogs no longer receive attention. Ask yourself if you will have the time for the new pup as well as to provide play time, walks, and special individual time minus the puppy for the two older dogs. Since you are retired, this may not be a problem.

The Doberman won't be a puppy forever. He or she will soon get bigger. Dobes are working dogs. They are active and need a lot of activity and training. You'll want to think about if you are prepared for this level of activity. Finally, even though you have a big dog to show the pup the ropes, the person raising the puppy will be you. We suggest that all puppies have some basic training. The AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program is a great place to start. You and your puppy can earn a gold Olympics style medal and have a lot of fun.

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Do you have an animal behavior question for Dr. Burch? E-mail your questions to mary@pawnation.com.