Introducing a new puppy into a home with a senior dog can be an exciting but potentially stressful time for both pets and their owners. In this blog post, we'll cover some tips and strategies to help make the transition as smooth as possible.

1. Consider the personalities of both dogs.

Before bringing a new puppy into the home, it's important to consider the personalities of both dogs. If the senior dog has a history of being aggressive or territorial, it may not be a good idea to bring a new puppy into the mix. On the other hand, if the senior dog is friendly and laid-back, he may be more accepting of a new addition.

2. Introduce the dogs on neutral ground.

When introducing a new puppy to a senior dog, it's best to do so on neutral ground. This can help to prevent the senior dog from feeling territorial over his home. Consider taking both dogs for a walk in a neutral location or introducing them in a friend's backyard.

3. Supervise all interactions.

When introducing a new puppy to a senior dog, it's important to supervise all interactions between the two dogs. This can help to prevent any aggressive or territorial behavior from the senior dog. Be sure to give both dogs plenty of space and never leave them unsupervised until you are confident they can be trusted together.

4. Create separate spaces for each dog.

To help prevent any potential conflicts between the two dogs, it's a good idea to create separate spaces for each dog. This can include separate feeding areas, sleeping areas, and play areas. This can also help to prevent any jealousy or competition between the two dogs.

5. Be patient.

Introducing a new puppy to a senior dog can take time, so it's important to be patient. It may take a few weeks or even months for the two dogs to become comfortable with each other. In the meantime, be sure to give each dog plenty of attention and love.

6. Train and socialize the puppy.

Training and socialization are important for any puppy, but they can be especially important when introducing a new puppy to a senior dog. Be sure to work with your puppy on basic obedience commands and socialize him with other dogs and people. This can help to prevent any potential conflicts between the two dogs.

7. Don't force the relationship.

Finally, it's important not to force the relationship between the two dogs. If the senior dog is not interested in playing with the puppy, don't force him to do so. Instead, allow the dogs to interact on their own terms and give them plenty of space if they need it.

Introducing a new puppy to a senior dog can be a challenging but rewarding experience. With patience, supervision, and lots of love, your two dogs can learn to live together peacefully and become lifelong friends.

With “National Puppy Day” coming up (March 23), we figured it would be the perfect time to bring up some things to know about adopting one! Puppies are adorable and a favorite to many people, but not everyone knows what all they will encounter when adopting. 

If you’re in the market for a new puppy and are thinking about adopting, keep reading along and you might learn some new things about it. 

1. Puppies will demand your time / attention 

Any dog, let alone puppy, will demand hours of the day from you. They are social animals that like to be in a pack, therefore they will want to feel included with you. Puppies need outside every 30 minutes to an hour at first in order to potty train and they will also want to play with you a lot. 

No more sitting down after a long day of work! Instead you will be playing and going outside, spending time with your pup. Make sure you have enough time in your day and are willing to spend it with them. 

2. They are expensive 

Food, vet bills, grooming visits, training, leashes, collars, tags… 

The list goes on and on, which can add up! Puppies are expensive and they will remain expensive for the remainder of their lives, which could be 10+ years. If you are not financially in a situation where you can spend hundreds, if not thousands on a dog, then it’s best you wait for a better time! Puppies are not cheap and they require a lot of expenses from day one. 

3. All breeds are different 

The type of dog you get is a huge decision. Do you want a hyper, playful dog? Or do you want a chill, mellow one that likes to lay around? (Although a puppy of any breed is likely to have tons of energy)

All dog breeds are different and grow up to act in their own unique ways. Some are lazy, some are protective, and some are excited and hyper. Whatever type you are looking for, it’s important that you do your research as to what type of dog is best for you.

4. They will come with baggage 

Any pet that you adopt vs. buy is going to come with some sort of anxiety and emotional baggage. They might take more time to learn, get used to you, and feel comfortable in their new environment. You will have to have extra patience when it comes to these issues! 

5. They are a lifelong commitment 

Like stated above, dogs can live upwards of 10+ years depending on the breed. A puppy that has already been surrendered once in its life should not have to ever be given up again. They are looking for their forever home and someone to love them for the rest of their lives. 

Make sure you are capable of taking care of them and being their loyal companion for the remainder of their life! Dogs are a lifelong commitment, not something that you can give away when you get bored or frustrated. 

6. They NEED exercise 

Puppies need to run off their energy and the same goes for them when they grow up. If your puppy isn’t getting rid of all that built up energy it could lead to behavioral issues, such as them tearing up your personal items or getting aggressive. 

Taking your pup on daily walks and playing with them in or outside is a must if you want them to remain happy and healthy!

7. You’ll need to “baby-proof” your house

You know when your baby starts to crawl and get into everything, so you have to baby-proof your house? The same goes for puppies… except they don’t have to learn to crawl! 

Get toxic house plants out of your puppy’s reach, move your shoes and any personal items out of their way, and pick up small things they could choke on, etc. Your puppy will be getting into everything they can and exploring their surroundings, so make sure they are safe while doing so!

Conclusion 

Before you adopt a puppy, there is a lot to learn and keep an eye out for. Adopting is a lot different than buying and your pup might require some extra care or love from you. Knowing what you know now, you should have an easier time if you are looking to adopt. 

Remember that dogs are a lifelong commitment and should be treated like a part of the family! They cost a lot of money and require much of your time and energy. If you don’t feel like you’re ready yet, don’t rush into it. They are living creatures who want your love and attention at all times.

Spring is in the air, and you know what that means… Warm weather! After being cooped-up inside all Winter long, you and your pet can finally get outside and have some fun in the fresh air. 

Whether you’ll be going on walks, to the dog park, or playing a friendly game of fetch in the backyard, getting outside and exercising is important! With that being said, we have a list of some products that will help you and your pet get outside and enjoy some vitamin D this Spring. 

1. Smart Pet Tag

First and foremost, when playing outside with your pet it is important to make sure they are safe and not running off / getting lost. It can be very scary and a dangerous situation if your pet runs off and you don’t know where they are. 

In case of a worst case scenario, keeping a trackable pet tag on their collar is the way to go. Getting a smart pet tag that connects to your smartphone allows you to share contact info and vet details with an individual who might find your pet. It will also notify you instantly with your pet’s GPS location when scanned.

Shop ours HERE 

2. Portable Playpen 

A great way to get your pet outside with you (while you’re doing yardwork or just busy outside) is to have a portable playpen that can be easily set up. These are great if you don’t have a fenced in yard but still want your pet outside with you.

They are a perfect way for your pet to get fresh air without the fear of them running off and getting lost. Although bigger dogs might not be a great fit in a playpen, smaller dogs and cats will enjoy being outside in the sunshine.

Shop ours HERE

3. No-Pull Dog Harness 

Taking your dog on a nice walk is a favorite of many pet parents. However, some dogs love to pull and this can make for a not-so-relaxing… jog. It can also be frustrating when your shoulder / arm starts to ache and your dog is choking themselves trying to go faster. 

Using a no-pull dog harness makes your walks enjoyable for both you and your dog. There are no more achy arms or choking dogs, just a relaxing walk in the fresh Spring air! 

Shop ours HERE

4. Licking / Snacking Mat 

A fun way to keep your dog entertained outside is to let them enjoy a snack on a licking mat. You can simply put peanut butter, cream cheese, plain yogurt, or canned food on the mat and let your dog lick away! 

This will keep your dog busy for a while as well as stimulate and help calm them down. Licking mats are also great for keeping your dog’s teeth and gums healthy. 

Shop ours HERE

5. Rubber Frisbee 

Having some toys to play with outside is always fun for your pets. Frisbees are a favorite of dogs and are a good way for you to get your exercise in too. Playing a game of fetch with a frisbee will tire you both out!

When buying a frisbee for your dog, make sure that it’s made of rubber and not plastic. Plastic frisbees can be harmful to your dog’s teeth and gums. 

Shop ours HERE

Conclusion

With warmer weather approaching, it’s the perfect time to get outside with your pets! The Winter months can drag by and feel like forever when you’re stuck indoors. These 5 products will help you and your pet get outside this Spring and be active. 

Whether it’s a new toy, safety gadget, or walking harness, your pet will thank you for getting them out and about to enjoy the sunshine!