My dog does not like his new companion! HELP!

Leleanne

We lived with my in-laws for six months while building a new house. We finally moved in and my dog (a 18 month old Shih Tzu/Lhasa Apso mix) was very mopey and sad to be home alone all day again. He was used to it before when we lived in our old house, but he got used to my inlaws dog, Murphy, always being there as a companion. We decided to get a new friend for him that is the same breed as Owen.

Here is the problem: The first night we brought Jack home Owen was immediately put off. Jack is 11 weeks old and VERY playful. In fact, the only time he stops playing is when he is sleeping. Owen won't even look at him and only pays attention to Jack when Jack bites his ears to get him play. They they start wrestling but it doesn't seem good natured to Owen. He seems to be fighting more than playing.

Owen is a very sweet and gentle dog. He was easy to train and has a great personality. We're not even sure if Jack will be a good fit in our family. He is very hyperactive (he is a puppy so we are hoping he will grow out of it) and also whines constantly. I didn't get a wink of sleep last nigth because Jack whined the whole night. We put him in the laundry room with a blanket and food and water and he barked all night. So, we brought him up in the bed with us (Owen sleeps with us at the end of the bed) and even thought Jack did eventually fall asleep he whined and freaked out for hours before he finally dozed off.

When he isn't sleeping, he's whining or trying to play. We do try to play with him but can't do it every second of the day. Owen will not initiate play and if Jack comes around Owen leaves and shuns him.

So what do we do? We've only had Jack for a day and a half now. Does it just require time and adjustment? Or did we make a mistake in buying Owen a companion?

ANY SUGGESTIONS?

MyDixie · Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 7:40 pm Post subject: Don't Worry

I would give this friendship several more days or even weeks. My older dog was very wary of my new puppy for some time before they became the friends that they are today. My older dog ignored the puppy and was almost rough with her for a short while until he understood that she was a new member of the family. I would give it a little more time if I was you.
Also, congrats on the new puppy! Surprised

Leleanne · Posted: Wed Dec 01, 2004 10:49 pm Post subject: Reply

Thanks! He is actually getting better today. I hope they become friends.

Jas · Moderator Joined: 16 Mar 2004 Posts: 774 Location: Canada

There usually is an adjustment period for the first dog when another enters the pack. Some dogs accept right away others need a little more time. Owen is probably starting to mature and calm down, so naturally a hyper, excited puppy alters things for him a little. What sounds like fighting is likely Owen putting Jack in his place and setting the boundaries. Jack has to learn. I'd let them be, in time it will sort itself out.

How much exercise does Jack get? It sounds to me like he has a lot of pent up energy and may need more walks or playtime with some dogs closer to his age. A tired is a good dog! I know how moving and work etc can take up a lot of time, but make sure you make a point of giving your dogs enough exercise daily, you'll be thankful for it later!

Leleanne · Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 2:22 am Post subject:

papillon/mom · Posted: Thu Dec 02, 2004 5:30 pm Post subject:

Hi, and welcome Surprised

puttin510 · Super Senior Member Plus Joined: 19 Mar 2004 Posts: 2748

I got a puppy about 9 days ago. I had to let her sleep with us or chance her climbing a doubled up baby gate and hurting herself. My other poodle sleeps with us too. She is usually very Bi*chy. but it has worked out fine. Now my terrier mix, whom sheds alot and sleeps on the floor. He showed his stress by not eating for a day and a hlaf, though he showed interest in the pup. Everything is fine now, Rufus is eating and loves to run and play with her. My older poo trys to play here and there. But everything has smoothed out. Give it a week and I can almost guarantee things will improve.

papillon/mom · Posted: Fri Dec 03, 2004 2:37 pm Post subject:

Oh Puttin, I am so happy for you, you have a new bundle of joy in your life now. Was it the apricot poodle you were thinking about getting? I don't recall seeing any pictures Wink

I really think that everything will come out wonderful, just give it time. Wink

puttin510 · Super Senior Member Plus Joined: 19 Mar 2004 Posts: 2748

Yes, I posted a bunch of pictures on the other forum. Lilly will turn cream just like sasha. She got a bad clip at the groomers. Shirley was very upset about that. Considering she had such a nice coat before. But here is a picture of her. She has lighten up alot.

Pekemom · Posted: Tue Dec 07, 2004 2:10 am Post subject:

She is just beautiful, Puttin....What a sweet face!

puttin510 · Super Senior Member Plus Joined: 19 Mar 2004 Posts: 2748

Thanks, pekemom. She is one fiesty girl. Gives rufus and sasha a run for their money(or kibble)