Introducing new puppy

[SpruceBruce]

I noticed another thread that answered most of my questions on whether or not to crate train our new addition - our 3 yr. has roamed freely in the house for a while now. My main concern with crate training is not how the new puppy will feel with him wondering around but if anyone has any ideas on how our 3 yr old will feel. I'm worried he'll be barking, whining, and just plain being annoying while she is in her crate :(

Also, we are unsure how much time to let them be together in the beginning. I've noticed that some people have mentioned keeping a bit a separation in the beginning? We are just so worried about doing the wrong thing and making this introduction hard on both of them, nervous new parents I guess

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Caney Creek]

Creek was 6 when we brought home Caney-puppy. We started crate-training Caney from the start -- Creek was crate-trained as a puppy also, but had not seen one since she was maybe 2. Caney never had any problem being crated -- well, just the normal puppy stuff, but she didn't seem to notice that SHE was in and CREEK was out. It was just that way from the beginning, so she accepted it. Now she's 1 1/2 and still the only one crated (only when we leave, she is fine being out during the night). I look forward to the day when she can be trusted to roam free while we're gone.

So unless your 3 yr old is "wild and crazy," I think he should be OK with her being in the crate. But you know him best

If you introduce them and your 3 yr old doesn't take to the pup well, I would see that as the only reason to keep them separated. As long as you are there to supervise, let them have as much time together as possible. Make sure both are playing nicely And you should keep them separate when you can't watch them -- and that's where the crate comes in!

Good luck with your new pup

 

[SpruceBruce]

Thank you!! We didn't think we'd have an issue, but of course in our excitement of preparing for our girl to join our family we've been stressing over EVERYTHING

We have been really lucky so far with Bruce, he was so easy to crate train that the thought of crate training another gets scary. All I kept picturing was him siting in front of the crate trying to "set her free" :D

Two more weeks and counting - we can barely wait!!!