How long to separate new dog while I'm gone?

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How long to separate new dog while I'm gone?

Posted : 7/4/2006 6:02:01 PM

Ok so I've had my new yet to be renamed doggie for 6 days. The adjustment period is going fine so far. When I leave for work, I gate him in the morning room at the end of the kitchen. He is well within visual of my older dog who chooses to sit/lie/snore in the kitchen. So they are keeping each other company without him getting into trouble, and they are not in each other's faces. I want the pack order and good manners to continue. So how long should this introductory period last? Is there a general rule?

and he's adorable by the way [

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Minty_Pups

Posted : 7/4/2006 11:11:56 PM

Do you mean how long you have to leave him gated in?

That depends entirely on the dog and the level of trust you have with him. We've had our gsd pup for 6 months now, and he's still crated when we leave during the day. While he's not a horrible chewer, I'm not 100% sure that he wont get into trouble, and I would rather not take that chance. Our 4 year old pom, on the other hand, gets free roam of the house the entire day.

What breed is your new dog, and how old is he?

I would observe how your new dog interacts with the older dog. Is there any chance they might fight if left together? Even if they seem fine together, your new dog, especially if he's young, might constantly bug your older dog to play with him. This would both annoy your older dog and maybe even evoke him to act aggressive towards the other one.

Also, do you trust your new dog to not get himself in any trouble - chewing up furniture, jumping on things, etc. Again, we can't make the call for you because we don't know what your dog is like.