My Shih Tzu Is Afraid of Our New Puppy

Dear Miss Fifi: 

My 3 year old Shih Tzu is afraid of the new 9 week old puppy. How do I help her adjust? 

- Carol 

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Dear Carol: 

It's a little difficult for older dogs to adjust to young pups. For one thing, they've got to share things ... egads! Miss Fifi doesn't share anything, so I can understand why this would be an issue. 

But there are some things you could try to ease the relationship along. Try crate training the new pup. That way, you're establishing a safe space that is your pup's, and your pup's alone. Make sure you have separate toys and eating areas, and separate blankets. Take the time to walk each of your canine's separately, and to play with each individually. The key is equal, but separate, time. Then you can ease them together over time. 

Good luck ... woof!