Wee prob

[GW80]

I've just recently got a new springer pup, and one of my other springers is showing a lot of hosility to the new arrival, has any of you guys had similar probs in the past? The dog that is being difficult is 4 year old and this is the first time he has encountered a young pup on his turf, it doesn't seem just jealousy as he is showing a real nasty streak something which never came out of him before! I have been showing him a good bit of attention to reassure him that the pup is no threat but he just doesn't seem to want the wee dog around, it's kind of worrying as i will be looking to kennel the pup in the future with the other 2!

[tomshooter]

got a 9 month old springer, my 7 year old springer doesnt seem to like her, whenever she goes in the same room he gets up and walks out, has also been quite aggressive

[jonboy99]

You need to be very careful in how you proceed here mate. By "reassuring" the older dog , you may actually be reassuring him that his agression is acceptable , or worse, praising him for it. Personally , rather than reassure him i would be making it clear to him that his agression is unacceptable. You gotta be fair though , how the pup is introduced to him is very important . Acclimatising him to the pup in a neutral environment initially is the best policy, always under your supervision until you know they get on. As the pup grows it's totally normal for the older dog to chastise him for rowdy or annoying behaviour, this shouldn't be confused with dominant / aggressive behaviour which shouldn't be tolerated. As time goes on , the pup should find his place in the pecking order. Hope this helps.