Introducing a new puppy to a dominant male

[tiffnco]

Hi everyone,

We just brought home our new puppy Grady yesterday. Our 3 year-old Rufus was never alone until we lost his sister. Even when Ripley was here, Rufus was the alpha.

I'm wondering how long it can take for the dogs to feel each other out. Grady is only 8 weeks and very playful and curious. Rufus won't let him play with any toys and Rufus doesn't want to play just yet. He's a little protective of us, and will snap if Grady gets too close to a toy. Nothing has been violent, just posturing. I do believe Rufus is trying to let Grady know who's the boss.

The situation isn't that bad...but I'm just wondering how long I can expect the higher tensions in the house. Are we looking at days, weeks, months?

What were your experiences with a similar situation?

Thanks!

Tiffany

 

[ZOE*BOXER]

I have the opposite situation here. We introduced Flash, a full grown male to our very dominant female Zoe. They worked it out themselves with a little guidance from us. Zoe is definitely the boss but not as bossy as we expected. Good luck.