Free Puppy Training Tips – 6 year old Shih Tzu & 5 month old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel


 

by Pam

Hello,

I have a 5 month old cavalier King Charles puppy and my in-laws have a 6 year old female Shih Tzu who was the only family dog for 6 years. At first the 6 year old would not have anything to do with the new puppy and was very upset about the new arrival. We figured it would take some time for the 6 yr old to allow the 5 month old to come near. We have made some good progress, they are starting to play a little bit now, they will pull on the same toy and play with us. However when the 5 month old greets the 6 yr old the 6 yr old Shih Tzu screams whines, drools and barks at the puppy. She is wagging her tail while doing this. The Shih Tzu is very territorial and possessive and the Cavalier puppy is very patient with the Shih Tzu and really attempts to get her to play with her. However it’s been 5mos and still the same whining barking and drooling is happening from the Shih Tzu, now the cavalier barks at her and jumps around. I’m just wondering if this is something that will take time? Is this still a sign of aggression from the Shih Tzu? Also is there anything else i can do to help them become better friends? The Cavalier loves the Shih Tzu and goes to her whatever chance she gets. I just was hoping for some advice about this? Greatly appreciate the information

Thanks

Our Response

Hi and thanks for the question – its important that your two dogs mix and socialize on a regular basis this way each time they meet will not be a new experience. You should walk them regularly and constantly reinforce positive behavior – this means diverting the negative behavior or anxious behavior that your older dog is exhibiting. So when they greet each other and this behavior starts – ask her to sit – don’t pay her any attention when she is whining – constantly reinforce her quiet behavior so that she realizes that there are benefits to being quiet – also remember that a tired dog is normally less likely to show anxious or other problematic behavior. Make sure that you feed both of the separately and continue to make sure that your older dog is receiving as much attention as the young puppy. Remember that a young puppy can also be a pain around an older dog and drooling can be a sign of stress so allow the older dog to chastise the puppy if she becomes to annoying.

Hope this helps.