New Dog...Issues with other dog!

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New Dog...Issues with other dog!

Posted : 7/24/2006 3:57:14 AM

I just recently got a new dog, a yorkie-poo named Patton. We also have a one year old Min Pin named Deuce. We've had Patton for about five days. He cry's constantly. Not just when he's in his crate, but when he's being held...when he's playing...constantly. He also follows Deuce around which upsets Deuce. Anytime the two dogs interact, Deuce's hair on his back stands up and he seems relativly upset at Patton. We've done our best to make sure that Deuce doesn't feel replaced, he's still the only dog that we allow to sleep with us (for potty training issues with Patton) and we try to greet him first and play with him individually. Even though it's only been five days, we're almost at our wits end. Trying to keep Patton from constantly crying and Deuce from getting upset at the attention that Patton requires...we just don't know what to do. Any suggestions would be really appreciated!

Luvntzus

Posted : 7/24/2006 4:11:16 AM

As far as the constant crying... is he a puppy? Just from what I've heard so far, it sounds like he's a puppy that was taken from the security of his mom and littermates too young. I would probably take him to the vet to make sure nothing is physically wrong. Also, when he whines, do you try to comfort him with "it's okay" and soothing tones or petting? If so then you're actually praising him for whining (from his point of view). Barring something physically being wrong, the best thing to do with an insecure or whiny dog is to ignore any of that type of behavior. Keep and upbeat, unbothered attitude and reward him when he's not whining.

As far as your 1 year old, Deuce, he needs a break from the other dog! He clearly isn't totally comfortable with the other dog yet and it sounds like he's feeling either threatened or very annoyed. I would babygate Patton away from him most of the time right now.... they can get used to each other through the gate without Deuce's space being invaded. I would make sure to always pay attention to Deuce first, feed him first, etc. to reinforce his alpha status so he won't feel the need to show the other dog himself. I would also make sure you definitely feed the dogs separately!!

Basically, right now I would only have them together when Patton is on a leash so that he can't pester Deuce. I think he needs much more time to adjust to this change.