Bringing a new puppy home is incredibly exciting and we’re so happy for you! We bet you can’t wait to welcome them home and start a whole new chapter with a brand-new fur baby. But we also understand that with such a big change, you’ll also have some concerns, especially if you’ve got an older dog already at home.
Honestly, the fact that you’re here, wondering how to prepare your older dog for a new puppy, already says a lot about you as a dog parent. Because you’re right; there are certain things to consider when it comes to introducing a dog already well settled in their home to a new pet. All dogs will feel the change, but older dogs especially.
They’ve spent years settling into a routine that feels safe and predictable. They know when walks happen, where they sleep, who gets the attention and how the house sounds and feels. Introducing a new puppy into that calm, familiar world can be a much bigger adjustment for them than it is for you.
That doesn’t mean your older dog won’t cope, or that they won’t grow to love their new sibling. It just means they deserve a bit more consideration along the way. Thankfully, with a few thoughtful steps, you can make this transition smooth for everyone involved.
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Before we get into the practical tips and tricks on how to prepare them, it’s worth taking a moment to understand why older dogs often need a little extra care and consideration when a new puppy joins the family. Unlike puppies, who find it much easier to adapt to change, older dogs have spent years building a routine and settling into a rhythm that feels safe and predictable. That’s why introducing a new puppy not only adds another dog to the house but almost changes the energy of their world.
For many older dogs, home is a familiar place where they know exactly what to expect. They know when walks happen, where they sleep, who gets attention and when, and how the day usually unfolds. A new puppy arrives with very different needs. They’re noisy, unpredictable, full of movement and learning the rules in real time. What feels exciting and joyful to us can feel overwhelming to a dog who’s used to peace and structure.
Age can also change how dogs process new experiences. Older dogs typically have less patience, slower reactions and a lower tolerance for constant stimulation (a little like humans as they get older too!) They’ll also find it harder to bounce back quickly from any stress or disruption, and they often need more rest than they used to. That doesn’t mean they won’t accept or even grow to love a new puppy, it just means they need more time and reassurance along the way.
There’s also an emotional side to consider when it comes to introducing a puppy to an older dog. For many dogs that are older, they have spent years being the only dog in the house, your only dog with undivided attention and a clear sense of where they fit in the family. The arrival of a new puppy can sometimes leave them feeling overlooked or unsettled, especially if their routine changes suddenly.
None of this means you shouldn’t bring a new puppy home, and it certainly doesn’t mean your older dog won’t adjust. It simply means that thoughtful preparation matters.
Before your puppy sets their paws through the door, there are a few simple but important steps you can take to help your older dog feel more secure and prepared. None of these are about changing everything overnight but about making small, thoughtful adjustments that reduce stress and set the tone for a calm and positive introduction.
Before you bring your new puppy home, it’s a good idea to temporarily remove toys, chews and food bowls from shared areas. This isn’t forever, it’s just about setting everyone up for success during those early days.
Puppies don’t yet understand boundaries, and even the calmest older dog can feel unsettled if a newcomer dives straight into their favourite things. Starting with a clean slate like this helps reduce the risk of resource guarding and keeps those first interactions positive.
Young puppies are more vulnerable to infection, so it’s important your older dog is fully vaccinated before your puppy arrives. This protects both of them and gives you peace of mind while they begin spending time together.
If you’re unsure what vaccinations or boosters your older dog might need, it’s always worth checking in with your vet ahead of time so you can make sure everyone is protected before the little one is welcomed home.
If you know your routine will change, start adjusting it before your puppy arrives. Practice new walk times, feeding locations or alone-time routines a few weeks in advance. If you can, introduce your older dog to your puppy’s scent beforehand too by bringing home a blanket or toy. These small steps help make the arrival of a new puppy feel less sudden and far more manageable for your older dog.
Once your puppy arrives, those first interactions really matter. The goal isn’t to rush a friendship or force togetherness, but to create positive experiences that help both dogs feel safe around one another.
The first introduction is super important, as it’ll set the tone for the beginning of their relationship. That’s why it’s worth taking your time if you can. We suggest introducing your older dog and new puppy outside, either in the garden or on a short walk close to home. You want somewhere that’s quiet, with few people and other dogs passing, so there’s less disruptions and pressure on both dogs.
Be sure to keep them on leads to begin with and allow them to sniff and investigate one another naturally. If either dog seems overwhelmed, take a short break by walking on or creating space before trying again. When you head indoors, bring them in together and leave lightweight house lines on both dogs. This still gives you a little control if you need to separate them without adding tension or panic.
One of the biggest adjustments for an older dog is suddenly having to share you. Make a conscious effort to give your older dog just as much one-to-one attention as before, if not a little extra. That might look like an extra cuddle on the sofa, a solo walk or sitting with them while your puppy rests.
At the same time, puppies need plenty of downtime. Encouraging calm crate time or naps gives your puppy a chance to recharge and gives your older dog a break from constant interaction. When the roles are reversed and you need to focus on your puppy, enrichment toys like lick mats or treat dispensers can help keep your older dog relaxed and happily occupied.
Puppies don’t always read social cues well, and even the most patient older dog has limits so it’s always best to supervise their time together closely, especially in the early days. If play becomes too intense or your older dog seems uncomfortable, calmly separate them using gates or different rooms and give everyone a breather.
It’s completely normal for this adjustment to take weeks rather than days. Slow positive experiences build trust far better than forcing constant togetherness.
Training sessions can be a lovely way to build positive associations between your new puppy and your older dog. Many puppies naturally look to older dogs for guidance, and if your older dog enjoys training, they can help demonstrate behaviours like sit, wait or recall.
As always, keep sessions short and be sure to generously reward both dogs. That way, you’re always making sure your older dog feels confident and involved.
You know your older dog better than anyone so pay attention to any signs that they might be feeling uncomfortable or distressed. Signals like turning away, stiffening, excessive licking or choosing to leave the room are just some of the ways your dog might communicate discomfort.
If you notice these signs, calmly remove them from the situation and give them space to calm down and relax again. It’s okay if this happens, it’s all part of the transition period and things will get easier for everyone involved.
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is such a special moment and we’re so excited for you! And we promise, with a little patience, preparation and empathy, it can be a really positive experience for your older dog too.
As we’ve shared, this transition isn’t about rushing friendships or forcing closeness. It’s about protecting the routine your older dog feels safe in, listening to their signals and giving them the reassurance that their place in your world hasn’t changed. The fact that you’re taking the time to prepare your older dog already tells us you’re doing this with care and intention, and that’s exactly what both your dogs need.
And remember, you don’t have to do it alone. Here at WOOOF, we’ve got everything you need to support both your older dog and your new puppy. From enrichment toys that give everyone a break, to treats, training essentials and cosy comforts that help make this new chapter feel calm, we’re here when you need us.
Advice sourced from Blue Cross
Older dogs feel change more deeply, so preparing their space and routine before a new puppy arrives makes a huge difference.
Slow, calm introductions and close supervision is also essential as it'll help build trust and prevent overwhelm, especially in the early days and weeks.
Balance attention between both dogs and be sure to listen and watch for any signals of discomfort.
The Author: Charlotte Harris
Charlotte has been a writer and dog owner her whole life, so combining these two things together is a dream come true. Her greatest love is her oversized Golden Retriever, Milo, who has a love of tough chews and anything filled with peanut butter!
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It's very common for older dogs to experience something that looks like jealousy when a new puppy arrives. In reality, it’s usually uncertainty or a fear of losing routine and attention. Keeping your older dog’s daily routine as consistent as possible and making time for one-to-one attention helps reassure them that they’re still just as important.
Every dog is different, but most older dogs take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months to fully adjust. Some dogs warm up quickly, while others need more space and time. The more positive experiences you have, and the more you respect your older dog’s boundaries, the quicker you’ll likely find yourself with two pups that love each other unconditionally.
Puppies have endless energy and little understanding of social boundaries, so management is key here. Use baby gates, crates and scheduled rest times to give your older dog breaks. You can also redirect your puppy with toys, training or enrichment when they become too intense.
