How is it best to introduce a new pup or youngster? - Page 1

Is there a "best way" to introduce a new pup or youngster to an older resident dog?  Our male is almost 3 years old and we're thinking about getting a female.   What age would you recommend the new additon should be based on your experience? 

It is best to introduce them slowly and very carefully. First, make your hands and a cloth all over the  The youngster may be crated in an area around the puppy to make a good scent and make sure the older dog has a chance to become familiar with these things. Then introduce the youngster while confined to a crate and allow the older dog to acclimate to its presence. Do not do a face-to-face introduction until many days have passed, and do it with a good grip.

Make sure to give the older dog at least as much attention as the younger dog, as they easily become very jealous. Do not allow any roughhousing between the dogs, as a puppy can be seriously injured or killed very quickly. Some dogs warm up very quickly, and others never will. That is not something that you can change. While I hope it is not your case, realize that they may never get along safely and always require supervision and separate areas. It is something that you will not know until you try it.

Good Luck,

Bob-O

I've no experience with introducing a bitch but plenty with introducing 2 males. As I am the Alpha in the house the older male will accept the younger dog as I've said so. I monitor it closely but have never had a problem with doing it immediately, just making sure they both get the same amount of attention.

I've never yet had a problem, which of course isn't to say I won't one day,

A total contrast from Bob-O's answer really but if I was asking the same question with no experience, I might just take Bob's advice.

Seeking opinions, and I'm sure they will vary: What match-up is ideal in a two dog situation? Two males? Two females? Or a mixed pair. Also if you could explain your choice that would be interesting too.

For me 2 males all the time. Why? I'm not keen on females for their looks, size and girly things.

Thanks Bob-O and Working Dogs for your replies (based on quite different experiences)... much appreciated.  In the past we introduced a year and a half old male to a 7 week old pup and he just gave her a good sniff over and pronounced her acceptable.  No fuss, no muss.  The only other time it was two pups purchased a month apart.  The four month old female accepted the three month old male right away.  This time we're thinking of getting an "older"  female (almost two years old) and we're just not sure how our male (who's almost 3) will react.  We have no desire to spoil the good thing we have with him!  That's why I was wondering if a young pup would be easier for him to accept than a two year old.

Golden Elk:  I've always been told that a male and female will get along best (as long as neither has been dog aggressive in the past) and that certainly has been the case in our limited experience.

I first have a kenel or fence between them for  couple of days so they get used to each other. then i will work my oldest /dominate dog very hard and get as tied as i can. right at the end of the workout my wife will come in with the pup and i will continue playing with the older, this usually works well as the older ones continues paying most attention to me wanting to play more but she is somewhat tired and not as aggressive o r jealoues and usually smells the pup and comes back to me.