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My older dog is aggressive to our new puppy. How to introduce?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered

New 5 week puppy, both have sniffed each other and younger one licked my current 3 month puppy on the cheek- introduced with a window with bars between them being big enough for Jack(older one's) head to fit between gaps. They were calm but when put directly in front of each other, the older one growled loudly and lunged towards the pup. The younger one sometimes growled back. I put Jack on my lap and put my arms on him, in case he lunged and fed him treats to calm him. How make comfortable?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Answered By Stacey Anstaett, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 30th, 2018

I assume Jack is the older one?
It sounds like you are going to need to be very careful introducing these two, and be sure to keep them crated when you are not able to supervise them. Here is an article you may find helpful:
https://www.petcoach.co/article/5-tips-to-introduce-a-puppy-or-dog-to-your-older-dog/
And an article on crate training which I would highly recommend:
https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-crate-train-your-puppy-or-older-dog/
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