How can I make sure my 7-year-old Labradoodle gets on well with our new puppy?
Q. I have a very well-behaved 7-year-old Labradoodle. She is great and has been part of the family since she was a puppy. We are getting a new puppy which is exciting and worrying at the same time. How can we make sure that all runs smoothly? Lee, London A. It has been a long time since you have had a puppy in the house and many people forget how much work you have to put into them to get a well-mannered dog. Like people, no two pooches are the same. Your new pup may react totally differently to how your old dog would have done, so be prepared for new situations to overcome. The top priority is your older dog. If you get consent from the breeder, I would take her along to visit the new addition. This meeting should be handled carefully; let the breeder hold the pup, keep your dog on the lead, let them sniff for a few seconds and then lead your dog away. This is great because when the new member of the family arrives at home it will not be an intruder since they will have already met. I
