For many dog owners, adding a new puppy to the family can be as nervewracking as it is exciting, especially to an older dog already in residence. But in this case, Golden Retriever Cinna, an absolutely lovely adult dog if there ever was one, has a moment of “love at first sight” with her brand new puppy brother Bronze. The level of excitement and careful bonding here is palpable and makes for what we can only assume will be the beginning of what will surely be a beautiful friendship.
A Golden Moment: Cinna Meets Her New Puppy Brother Bronze
Cinna, an adult Golden Retriever from North Carolina, was in for a treat when she got a visit from her new little brother, a Golden Retriever puppy named Bronze. When the two were finally introduced, it’s clear that Cinna can barely contain her excitement. She sinuously wags her tail and dances on the pavement with joy—her enthusiasm is infectious! But then realizing that she’s got to be gentle with her tiny sibling, Cinna rolls onto her back and exposes her belly to make herself less threatening to the pint-sized Bronze. This coaxes the little guy out of his shyness and he begins cautiously crawling towards his big sis.
The video is a living testament to how sweet the bond between an old dog and a new puppy really can be when it gets off on the right foot.
How to Introduce a New Puppy to Your Older Dog: Proven Tips
While Cinna and Bronze’s bond is instant, not all dogs may be as open or ready to welcome a newcomer. Here are essential steps to ensure a smooth introduction, so you can create a happy, harmonious multi-dog household:
Take It Slow: Gradual introductions work best.
Start by letting them meet in a neutral, open space rather than an area that the older dog considers “their” territory.
Designate Personal Space: They’ll each need a place to call his own to help avoid territorial behavior. In the beginning, keep the new puppy confined to one or two rooms (in baby gates or exercise pen), this will make both dogs feel more secure and ensure that the puppy isn’t overwhelming for your adult dog.
Supervise First Interactions: Keep a close eye on their body language when they first meet. If you notice any stiffness or tension in either dog’s body, if ears are pinned back, tails are low and wagging very slowly, first interactions between your dogs have become confrontational and there is a real risk of aggression. Separate them for a short period of time before you try again later.
Separate During Meals: Food is a common trigger for dog aggression, so feed your pets in separate rooms until both are trained well enough to feel comfortable around each other.
Allow Natural Corrections: Dogs teach each other boundaries through corrections. If one growls or snaps at the other, don’t punish this behavior; instead, keep an eye on the situation. This kind of dog aggression isn’t dangerous unless it’s excessive and coming from your new dog.
Pet owners who follow these best practices can help ensure their pet has a smooth and low stress transition, setting the stage for an exceptional bond to form.
The Benefits of a Puppy for an Older Dog
A new puppy for an older dog can feel like a fountain of youth. With a younger dog in the home, senior dogs are more active, engaged, and playful, which can have a positive effect on their mental and physical state. And as Cinna’s case proves, an older mentor dog can even help model behavior for the puppy.
Why Golden Retrievers Make the Best Family Dogs
The sweetest breed of dog that is friendly, loyal and gentle perfect for a family. They are so social and easy going they will most likely welcome a new puppy with open paws! This video of Cinna meeting Bronze is proof that when it comes to raising babies, Golden Retrievers are amongst the best. It’s impossible not smile at this!