torn between old dog & new puppy

[Mali]

My husband and I have been married for almost 15 years now, and the past 11 of them have been shared with our black lab. We decided from the beginning not to have children, and have been very happy with our decision. Parker has shared every aspect of our daily life, from sleeping in bed with us, to going along to work with either of us. He's very rarely NOT by one of our sides. He's definately showing his age, and the changes are coming more rapidly. He's starting to have trouble getting in and out of the vehicles, and has LOTS of those wonderful fatty lumps that labs get. We've been alternating his days with 1 day at work, followed by a day home. I have a wonderful customer that has a female lab that is just amazing. She is due to have a litter of puppies on Columbus Day, and I am overjoyed at the thought of adding a puppy. I'm guilty because of upsetting the family dynamic with Parker, but I have begun shedding tears every day just thinking about not having him too much longer. I spend as much quality time with him as possible, and know that he may only have a few short years left with us. I know it's not healthy to fret this much over a pet, and we know we could never replace Parker, but I just feel that if I have an additional dog to attend to, the emotional attachment to him might lessen a little. Yes, I am solely doing this for selfish reasons. Parker is very used to other dogs coming and going, including my parents very rambunctious jack russell, so I don't have any concerns with the puppy being too taxing on the old man. My intentions are to take the puppy to work as much as possible, leaving Parker home to rest. If Parker decides he wants to go to work, then they both go.
How has anybody else dealt with this issue?

[Casey09]

I think that a puppy would be fun for you - it sounds like you take great care of your dog. I don't think you'll upset the family dynamic, and your dog might enjoy a younger friend. As long as he can still go with you if he's up to it, I don't think it would cause too much upset for him.
Good luck.

[thatmoody]

Yup, we added a chihuahua puppy to our household this year - we already had an 11 year old lab (with same fatty tumors AND lymphoma - not expected to live past a year) plus a 16 year old chihuahua who is truly ancient.

What happened was...said lab fell in LOVE with the puppy. He plays with him like he's a puppy again; maybe not for as long as he would have as a young dog, but it's definitely brought a spark back into his life and some joy into his heart. They wrestle (we deliberately bought a bigger chi - he's now 15 lbs), and run around the house like maniacs. It's been a year and a half since Bear's lymphoma diagnosis and the vet can't believe how good he's doing.

The ancient chihuahua even plays with him - they nuzzle and cuddle, and the puppy is SO careful with her. YMMV, but he's definitely boosted both our old dog's morale and energy levels. He's also been a balm to my heart; I will miss both Bear and Boo Boo, but I can't imagine life without Hellboy too, now...

[Larksmom]

I have a nearly 17 [!] year old lab mix myself. She lost her buddy almost 2 years ago, and I finally realized she needed a buddy when I was gone at work. After extensive looking at the boards here, I decided to get her a buddy. Results are mixed at best.:confused::yes: I gott a female mix [?] from a friend. She, um, collects them as they show up at her place in the country. This dog is very friendly, but tries to 'herd' the older one-she just barrells into her. :eek:Not a good thing.She also has some real issues about food. Fortunately, Amy, the lab mix, is a saint. I think she is glad to have a friend but not such an EXUBERANT one.:yes: The new dog, Toffee needs a job but doesn't have a clue about fetch or chasing sticks. We go for walks but amy is pretty crippled up. It isn't easy for her. So we are making it work, but it isn't pretty at times....:confused:

[Cindyg]

We were in a similar position a couple of years ago. DS wanted a dog of his own. I didn't want a new puppy as long as we had the old dog. Well, I was pursuaded. Of course DS adores the new puppy (now three years old). But I wanted to tell you how it worked out for the old dog. (Not that this would be your experience necessarily. Just what happened here.)

There certainly were times that the new puppy was too rough with the old dog. But he quickly learned that Old Dog was not a puppy to be rough housed. The old dog, for her part, did a bit of bouncing back, somewhat excited at moments by the puppy. Not a lot of this, honestly; but some. More than would have happened without the puppy.

So three years have gone by. Old dog is still with us, but not alone. When we leave the house, the "new puppy" sleeps, literally, snuggled up to her side. When Old Dog goes out to pee, "new puppy" happily trots out with her. When New Puppy gets trained, we throw a treat to the old dog (who is just lying there, but hoping puppy gets it right so she'll get a treat!) :) When New Puppy gets a chew bone, Old Dog tries one too. The sweetest thing, though, is how the puppy snuggles up to the old dog. Very sweet doggy behavior.

Old Dog isn't very social and certainly wouldn't have chosen the new puppy. But all-in-all, I think it's worked out well for her. Certainly her quality of life did not decrease.

[thatmoody]

That was one reason we got a significantly smaller breed puppy than our older dog. Chihuahuas ARE exuberant, but they can't do too much damage :). We've always had multiple dogs, and it's always worked out that we've lost them one at a time, but this time our two eldest were in just too bad shape for us to think that we weren't going to lose both of them too soon. But we were surprised when Bear rallied so well (and Boo, too!). So we're just enjoying the extended family now, and taking things one day at a time.

Edit: Oh, and Hellboy and Bear go for daily walks together, each on their own leash. I need to get a picture of them...

[MrWinston]

After being a one dog family and having that dog die suddenly and unexpectedly years ago, we have been a muliple dog family ever since. It was just too hard to find ourselves dogless. If we lose a dog, it's the others that make us carry on.

My experience is that the puppies make the older dogs rise to the occasion and rally. I would talk to the vet about meds that would make the older dog more comfortable and more inclined to enjoy the new puppy.

[Flipper]

I agree with Mr. Winston - Get the old dog on something for the arthritis & make him more comfortable, & get him a lab puppy! We've had 2 labs at a time for the past 15 yrs, after having 1 golden as the 'only child'. The biggest age difference has been 9yrs, and that 'old dog' perked up BIG time when the youngster came into her life - and she lived to be 15. Labs - especially if they're used to socializing- seem to be extremely receptive to having younger siblings come into their lives.
For the first year, I've found that it really helps the 'old dog' if you send puppy off to doggie daycare a couple of times a week to a) blow off steam & take the pressure off 'old dog' (puppy will still be playful when he/she comes home, but will sleep like a baby afterward!) and b) re-affirm to the 'old dog' that he's still #1 in your eyes, as long as he goes to work with you to spend 'quality' time with you on those days.
Have fun!

[SUECLOUDY]

Agree with Mr Winston. We are just approaching this problem. Our black (98% lab) is going on 10 years old. Has a heart problem but otherwise is extremely healthy and acts like a 2 year old.
We got the lab while our shepherd was still alive, and it was a little easier on us when we had to put down the shepherd, as we still had a dog in the house, and also to care for. I don't think it is selfish, it just makes it a little easier on you emotionally when the time comes.

[BuddyRoo]

I would be more inclined to wait til your lab passes before getting a puppy. I just think it's to hard on the older guys to try to keep up with a pup.

I had intended to get another lab when my guy was between 4-6 so that I would always have a dog around...but I'm afraid that window is closing. Have spent so danged much on this one in the last year (just had major surgery) that I don't think it would be responsible (for me) to take on another pet.

You could test this out by taking him to a dog park or to a friend's house who has pups. See how he handles it?

[fivehorses]

I do this, when an older dog is getting on, I get a younger one, in fact, recently I had three, old lab, akita, and then a younger lab. The young lab played so gently with my older lab...on the carpet with both of them on the floor...obviously the older lab had a difficult time rough housing standing up.

I never found it to be tense, or more attention given to one over the other. Do parents love one child more than their others? Don't anyone truly answer that!

I also recommend cosequin for dogs, as well as I used zubrin, prescription nsaid for my old girl...it gave her a few more years imo. The cosequin worked great, but then she needed a bit more, so I added the zubrin.

I think you may be surprised how happy your old guy is to have a young pup in the house...labs are so optimistic and positive. Good luck.

[Mali]

It's nice to read all of the positive experiences that you have had.
My lab has been on Cosequin since the age of two - due to his size. He is a very tall, solid lab and weighs in at 150lbs (and he isn't fat)! I truly think the Cosequin has added years to his life, and he's only begun to slow down within the past year. I recently switched from the Cosequin (people formula) to the Cox Vet Labs Actiflex K-9. He now moves much more quickly up the deck steps. The Cosequin just didn't seem to be helping much anymore, even after I increased the dosage. I'm trying to avoid Adequan as long as possible, but that is most likely the next step.

[MrWinston]

With an elderly mix that looked like a Flattie. He had gotten extremely creaky and after treatment went back to trotting along very comfortably and happily.

[equit8or]

We had that happen with my dobie growing up. She had developed fatty lumps, and was having health issues. Our vet had actually suggested getting another dog to ease everyone with the transition, and to give Morgan a buddy that may comfort her with her issues. We wound up with a Boston Terrier puppy. She harassed Morgan all the time in a very playful way. Morgan just LOVED her, and actually we were lucky to have another 5 years with her and the boston together. It was one of the best decisions we made.

[jetsmom]

Definitely consider Adequan and even an NSAID like Previcox for your dog. It truly helps.

My experience was bringing a year old stray German Shep/Boxer mix into my home when I had an elderly Chow mix that had ACL surgery and since then wasn't moving around much. Having the new dog gave renewed life to the older dog. I had another younger dog (about 4 yrs old) at the time, but she wouldn't play with the older one. When she'd try, he'd growl at her, so she would quit. The new dog just wouldn't give up, and eventually got the older one to play. The old dog lived another 7 years, with much more playing than he ever did before.

[EqTrainer]

There is no reason to avoid Adequan - all good, no bad. The longer you wait, the less good it can do. Go for it!

[imapepper]

After being a one dog family and having that dog die suddenly and unexpectedly years ago, we have been a muliple dog family ever since. It was just too hard to find ourselves dogless. If we lose a dog, it's the others that make us carry on.

My experience is that the puppies make the older dogs rise to the occasion and rally. I would talk to the vet about meds that would make the older dog more comfortable and more inclined to enjoy the new puppy.

I lost my 17 year old Sheltie last year. I would not have been able to deal with it if it were not for our JRT. Our JRT is a very active 13 year old and I want to get him a companion. I do not want a puppy because I think our lifestyle is a bit too busy to devote to house training puppy but I am thinking about adopting a younger adult to keep my JRT company. I am dreading his old age and am hoping that a youngster will help keep him young. My DH is very against new dog because he thinks our JRT enjoys being an only child.....I am hoping that he changes him mind soon.

I think new puppy is a great idea. And I totally understand the motive behind it. Not only is it going to be a comfort for you in the long run, it will give your old guy someone to occasionally be a youngster with....even if it's just for a few moments a day :)

[thatmoody]

Here are Bear and Hellboy together, by the way:
http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k307/thatmoody/HellBoy/008.jpg

[Sancudo]

When my lab was 12, my sister got a corgi puppy, and they were best buds. Then I got an aussie when she was 15, and she raised both of them with her good manners. She was nearly 17 when she passed on.

[Ben and Me]

There is no reason to avoid Adequan - all good, no bad. The longer you wait, the less good it can do. Go for it!

Agreed! After you get done with the loading dose period, it isn't too expensive either. The clinic where I worked probably would've charged ~ $35 for a 150 lb dose, which is given every 3-4 weeks. It's definitely a lot cheaper than adding an NSAID, especially since many vets are starting to require bloodwork before prescribing NSAIDS (due to the danger of liver damage and liability issues), and rechecking those values every 6 months while the dog is on the medication...not to mention the dangers of GI upset associated with those medications. Of course, they really can make a huge difference, but they're definitely something to discuss with your vet and balance the pros and cons. Tramadol (not an NSAID) may also be an option, and it is on the $4 list at Wal-Mart and Target.

[Daydream Believer]

This thread is very helpful. I lost my old JRT, Darby, this Spring...some of you might remember that as I had a post on here when it happened. I was a mess.

We have one 14 year old JRT and then the 7 year old JRT...both neuters. I have an opportunity right now for a puppy out of a daughter of the dog I lost this Spring...his grandpup if you will. He was a registered JRT and produced some litters over his life...not that many...but I never got that chance to breed him one last time and get a pup of his to keep his line going. I know that may sound silly as there are so many dogs needing homes...but he was special and one of the nicest JRT's you ever saw. Never fought and went to shows, calm and steady and a super hunter....even did some below ground work...and my best little friend for many years...went everywhere with me glued to my side. This pup would also be registered also.

My husband's concern is that our older JRT will not take to the puppy well. I am not worried about the younger one as much. Perhaps I will let him read this thread. :-) It sounds like our worries may be unfounded. My fear is the 14 year old is not going to be around a lot longer regardless and that would leave our younger dog alone for the first time in his life. Not a good thing.

[Laurierace]

I remember we got our lab when my sheltie was nine because I figured he wouldn't live much longer and didn't want to be dogless. It totally brought my sheltie to life! He loved having a buddy to romp with and teach things to. When I lost him at age 16 (yeah I was off by a little bit!) the lab had no idea what to do with herself. She didn't know how to go outside to go the bathroom by herself and didn't eat much if at all since she always let him eat first. I heartily recommend giving it a try.

[kdow]

I think it depends a lot on the older dog and the puppy. With one of our older dogs, we got a puppy that very quickly was the same sort of size as the older dog, but not really good with social cues, and the older dog pretty clearly quickly got tired of having to lay down the law all the time. The same older dog was fine a couple of years later when we brought home a smaller breed puppy, though - perked up and played fine. (The original puppy we rehomed with friends of the family who lived in the country so he could run around like a lunatic and get his extra energy out. He was with them until he died at 12 or so.)

So I'd consider it, but make sure the older dog is involved in the process of selecting WHICH puppy, so you can hopefully get one that will pair up well.

[witherbee]

When my collie was failing, we got a Pembroke Welsh Corgi, and it was a blessing as the collie passed and then my other old dog passed. I have this heartwarming photo of my old dog Lucy passing on her wisdom to the new puppy. It's like she was saying "This will all be yours someday"...


http://s74.photobucket.com/albums/i245/wtryan/Our%20Pets/?action=view&current=SashaLucy2.jpg

[Rubyfree]

Witherbee, that pic made me all squishy. What a lovely memento.

I agree that it depends on the dog and the puppy- it was very hard for me to convince others that my old rottie wanted a puppy. She was a one woman dog and did not suffer interference with her relationship with me kindly. She had never much cared for other dogs. When FH and I moved in together and decided we needed another dog, it was in no small part because we wanted any new puppy to 'learn' to be a good dog from the best.dog.ever. while she still had it in her. Jade was 13 at the time. People at the vets office, breeders, shelters, etc were almost universally wary- "Are you sure she WANTS a puppy?" and I understand why- but I really, really had an instinct that this was a gooooood idea. Turns out it was. While the pup didn't exactly learn to be a good dog from her, having a puppy around to school gave Jade back SO much vigor. It was like she had a new purpose in life. She LOVED showing him things, correcting him when he got out of line, etc. It was the best thing we ever did for her.

Shortly after we got the pup- I call this "I am so to old for this crap."
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v203/rubystheory/jadeexasperated.jpg

And a video. Reminding the puppy that she could take him out anytime she wants. I love at the end of this one where she looks at me so proud of herself. "I won, Ma! I've still got the goods!"
http://smg.photobucket.com/albums/v203/rubystheory/?action=view&current=jadenarlovid.flv

She got another two years of life out of the pup.

[MunchkinsMom]

Aw Witherbee, that made me reach for the tissues!

I just wanted to add that in all my years of dogs in my life, getting a puppy usually did enhance the older dog's twilight years (once you get past the first few days of adjustments).

Here is a picture from two years ago, when we got new puppies to replace two older dogs that had died within 6 days of each other, making what used to be the baby of the dog pack the oldest member. This is Murphy who was 10 at the time, and Cubby at age 8 weeks:

http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2147/2908252/21667865/374801818.jpg

And a more recent picture of Murphy and the two pups all grown up:

http://pic90.picturetrail.com/VOL2147/2908252/21667865/365042683.jpg

[shygirl]

My experience, FWIW:

My 70 lb. Border Collie-ish mutt is now 16. I've had him since he was 8 weeks old and I went to the pound with vague intentions of getting a female Shepherd-type, and came home with a bat-eared black and white boy dog instead. He's been with me through post-college traveling, first "real" job, first horse, graduate school, getting married, first house, own barn, having children... Irreplaceable.

Two years ago, my other dog passed away in my arms at age 13. I thought perhaps we'd stay at one dog for awhile, especially since I was working from home, so he had company anyway. But then I noticed that the old guy was sleeping a lot more and just generally not taking as much of an interest in life. And soon after that, I met a young dog who really needed a home. So we decided to take a chance.

Well, the new dog completely revitalized the old grump. They run around and wrestle, and his appetite is better, and even though at first I wondered if all the excitement would be too much for my senior guy, it actually seems to have kept him going. I suspect I might have lost him already if we hadn't taken in another.

Best wishes, whatever you decide!

[BLBGP]

How does your dog like puppies now?

[Mali]

How does your dog like puppies now?

He loves them. I am lucky to be able to take him to work, and many of my clients bring their dogs along with them. He just lays down on the floor beside the youngsters and plays along with them! He is more intimidating to the pups than they are to him, but I think he senses that and that is why he always lays down. They warm up to him pretty quickly..he doesn't have a mean bone in his body. Years ago, he was attacked by a Chow and never once growled or snapped back at it (poor guy had 6 bite wounds along his back). Lucky for him, my husband and his size 12 foot took care of the Chow mucho fast.