Senior Dog’s Grumpy Start Turns Into Viral Friendship Joy

Quick Smiles:

• Senior dog Alice wasn’t thrilled about meeting her new puppy sibling, Hercules.
• Despite the rocky start, the two pups quickly became best friends.
• The video of their introduction went viral, capturing the hearts of millions.

Bringing a new puppy into a home with a senior dog can be a delightful yet challenging experience, as one dog owner discovered. When a 13-year-old Tibetan spaniel named Alice was introduced to her 8-week-old Bernese mountain puppy brother, Hercules, the encounter was anything but smooth.

In a TikTok video shared by the owner, Alice’s reaction was less than enthusiastic, growling at the curious newcomer. The video, which quickly gained traction online, shows Hercules trying to get close to Alice, only to be met with resistance.

“Introducing a new family member. She was 13 years, he was 8 weeks, and all he wanted was to be close to her,” reads the text overlay in the clip. The caption humorously adds, “It was not love at first sight, at least not for Alice. She thought he was such an annoying oversized baby.”

Introducing a new puppy to an older dog requires careful planning. It’s crucial to start by swapping scents. This can be done by placing an item with the puppy’s smell in the older dog’s environment, helping them adjust.

Setting up the house properly is also key. Ensure that each dog has their own toys, bowls, and blankets to prevent competition. Both dogs should have a designated safe space to retreat to when needed.

The first face-to-face meeting should ideally take place outside, such as at a dog park, to avoid territorial behavior from the older dog. If issues arise, seeking advice from a veterinarian or animal behavior expert is recommended.

Despite the initial hiccup, the owner shared that the training was successful. In the comments, she reassured viewers: “They became friends quickly and she left my bed for his already after a week.”

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