A Calm Start: Introducing a New Puppy to Your Existing Dog

Introducing a new puppy to a home with an existing dog is an exciting moment, but it does need a little planning. When done correctly, it sets the foundation for a lifelong friendship built on trust, boundaries and calm confidence.

At Puppies Downunder, we see the smoothest transitions happen when families slow things down and let both dogs adjust at their own pace. Here are our best tips to help your puppy and your resident dog start off on the right paw.

Start with neutral introductions, First impressions matter.

Where possible, introduce your dogs on neutral ground rather than straight inside the home. A quiet park, a calm street, or even the front yard can help remove territorial feelings.

Keep both dogs on loose leads and allow them to observe each other without forcing interaction. A brief sniff followed by a calm walk together is often better than face to face excitement.

Keep the energy calm and positive

Dogs feed off our emotions. If we are anxious, rushed, or overly excited, they will be too. Stay relaxed, speak softly, and avoid crowding them. Praise calm behaviour rather than excitement. Calm coexistence is the goal, not instant play.

Give your existing dog reassurance

Your resident dog may feel unsure or displaced at first. This is normal. Continue their normal routine as much as possible including walks, feeding times, and one on one attention.Let your existing dog see that they are still valued and secure. This builds confidence and reduces jealousy.

Create safe spaces for both dogs

Every dog needs a space they can retreat to and feel safe. This is especially important in the early days.

Your puppy should have their own crate or pen for rest and sleep. Your older dog should also have access to a quiet area where they can relax without being disturbed.

Never force interaction. Let them choose when to engage.

Supervise all interactions early on

Even the friendliest dogs need supervision when a new puppy arrives. Puppies are still learning social cues and can easily overwhelm an older dog without meaning to.

Short, positive interactions are far better than long, chaotic ones. End play sessions while things are still going well.

Teach the puppy respect early.

Puppies learn quickly when boundaries are consistent. Discourage behaviours like climbing, biting ears, or interrupting rest. If your older dog corrects the puppy appropriately, allow it. This is healthy communication. Step in only if things escalate or become intense.

Stick to routines

Dogs thrive on predictability. Keeping feeding times, walks, and bedtime routines consistent helps both dogs feel secure.

Structure creates calm and calm creates confidence.

Be patient and realistic

Some dogs bond instantly. Others take weeks or even months to fully relax together.

Both are normal. Avoid comparing progress to other families or social media.

Your dogs will build their relationship in their own time.

When to seek extra support

If you notice ongoing stress, guarding behaviour, or tension that does not improve, it is always okay to seek help from a qualified trainer or behaviourist.

Early guidance can prevent small issues from becoming bigger ones. A calm start sets the tone.

At Puppies Downunder, we believe the early foundations matter.

A gentle, structured introduction helps your puppy grow into a confident companion and supports your existing dog to feel safe and respected.

With patience, consistency and calm leadership, most families find that their dogs not only adjust but thrive together.