We get many inquiries from folks who have just lost a Chihuahua and have another dog at home they believe is grieving over the dog that has passed away, so they think bringing in a puppy will help the remaining dog get over the loss.

Sometimes that works just fine. However, it very well may not! The established dog often wants nothing to do with the new ‘intruder’ and reacts with hostility and even more depression.

Anyone who wants to add a pup needs to be willing to give the established dog plenty of time to adjust. They may have to be separated for quite a while-we recommend a wire x-pen for the pup, so it is visible to the older dog but not bothering it. Certainly, do not feed together. The two dogs may be taken for leashed walks on neutral territory. This will help the dogs become acquainted in a non-threatening atmosphere.

But, above all, only add a pup when YOU want the dog, not primarily
as a companion to your other dog. They may or may not ever be good friends.

We are very concerned about where our pups go, and we don’t want them returned because the purchaser did not give enough thought to bringing in another dog. We also don’t want them injured or made timid by the established dog.

So, please be willing to be very patient if a decision is made to add a puppy.