Wondered if you might be able to give some advice? We have a 7 month old black lab full dog who is a joy to have, very well behaved if not a little headstrong and very bouncy when in the company of other dogs - just wants to play. My son and his wife have unexpectedly been staying for a couple of weeks due to problems with their bathroom and they have a 4 year old black lab neutered dog, again very well behaved and very obedient. The two dogs are used to being together and walking on a regular basis 2 or 3 times a week but living together has presented a few problems, mostly because the puppy wants to play all the time and the dog responds but in a smallish house this has been difficult. They have been play fighting, lots of clashing of teeth, and when this appears to be getting a bit more serious than playing we have dealt with it by distracting the dogs with toys or separation in another room for a few minutes. However last night we were not quick enough to control the situation and the adult dog went for the puppy causing a cut on his face made by teeth which needed stapling at the vets. My daughter-in-law says that 'perhaps the puppy will have a little more respect for the dog' and I have to say that the puppy is full on wanting to play the whole time but we thought that the time-outs were enough. Obviously not. How do you train both dog and puppy to behave quietly in the house and with respect for one another and is what we are doing correct? After 2 weeks they do have quiet moments together when they will lay on the floor and we thought they were adjusting to this new situation, which looks like continuing for at least another week.
Re: Visiting dog I'm afraid I haven't much experience of this except my old lab when he got older was not keen on young bouncy dogs too near. I think they were just too much for him and he was a big softy really. I know it might not be possible but if pup is getting too much I would remove him from the situation (if possible) he has to learn manners and how to behave the older dog is trying to put him in his place perhaps but he's not getting the message. Or is there somewhere the older dog can go if he wants to get away? Difficult situation with you all in one house. Good luck. Jen
Re: Visiting dog When Lilly goes to stay with her younger "cousin" she sometimes needs a little time out too - although we no longer use her crate in the house, we always take it for her "holidays" and this is her safe space. Its just in the sitting room, but she gets peace when she is in it. Her younger cousin also has her crate in situ and unfortunately is in it quite a lot ;D I'm not sure whether this could help at all. Certainly a "safe space" of some sort.....
Re: Visiting dog When we have doggie visitors I sometimes find the constantly wrestling quite wearing even if the dogs are fine. We send them to separate beds but with a puppy that might be a bit optimistic so a crate where they can still see everything going on might be better (if you have one)
Re: Visiting dog Thank you all - we have been taking the puppy out but not for long - I will try the crate as he likes it in there - haven't done that so far as I didn't want him to associate the crate with a bad situation.
