Rescued dog agressive towards other dog

skillswife · 10-15-2009, 10:20 PM

We just rescued a dachshund mix dog, she is 18 months old and seemed to get along great with our kids and our other dog who is a lab mix and 8 yrs old. They did great all evening, then I went to get groceries when I came back the new dog Pumpkin wouldn't let my dog near me and started growling snapping and lunging at her. I am so sad because she is great with the kids so far, love sleeping with my daughter etc... but i can't have her beating up our other dog. I don't think its fair for the new dog to come in and take over everything. I am not sure what to do next. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thanks,
Christine fur mom to Sadie and new addition Pumpkin

**Criosphynx** · 10-15-2009, 10:33 PM

how long have you had her? She sounds overwhelmed.

very cute btw

**fawkese1** · 10-15-2009, 11:12 PM

ditto what crios said...no matter how things seem, it takes time for a new pet to settle in to your routine...
btw, having a routine is really helpful with a new animal in the house, you can change it later....
and ditto the cuteness too

Mikey · 10-16-2009, 02:25 AM

It's a little different when brinign home a new dog, to your existing dog. It's difficult for both, very often.

Start taking them for walks together (like right now-it's not too late midnight is fine....ok fine maybe tomorrow) -they learn very quickly that they are part of a 'pack' with you as the 'leader'.
I've done this with troublesome dogs who don't do well with others. It is INCREDIBLE how much difference some walks together make! Even one walk, and you see a difference.

What would have been ideal, is when you brought home the new dog, to keep her outside, bring your lab out, and go for a walk together. Then bring the two in together; So that there is less territorial behavior.

Anyways, like the others said, she'll need time. And I highly highly suggest the walks.

Keep us posted on your progress! Welcome to the forum!

skillswife · 10-16-2009, 08:09 AM

This morning seems to be much better. I am sure there will be adjustment for both. We just got her yesterday so hopefully things keep getting better. She slept will dd all night and when we took a walk to the bus together she cried and cried when dd got on the bus. She really loves her.

Mikey · 10-16-2009, 10:02 AM

Awww-sounds like everybody is starting to settle in

**Criosphynx** · 10-16-2009, 01:06 PM

oh its only been a few days!

Yes very normal...shes going to be semi-confused for a while...figure about six weeks for her to settle in.