Current Doodle and Puppy - Is this bad, awful or ok?

[Doug and Beth]

Hi everyone,

We currently have a 7 year old labradoodle and just added a puppy to the family.  We have had the puppy for 3 weeks now and he is 11 weeks old.  

The older one doesn't bother with the puppy much but we do notice he seems to always be on alert and a lot less relaxed now.

Here is the concern....the puppy constantly nags at the old one barking and jumping all over him.  Finally two days ago the older one starting to knock him around a bit.  He uses his head and sort of swats him away.  He doesn't bite back but does use his mouth a little.  Our concern is the older one is tossing this little one around a bit and barking loudly.  However, his tail is wagging the entire time.  I just read online that the wagging tail may be fear or stress and not actual fun.  I would hate to stress the older one out, anyone have thoughts on how I can get this little bugger to stop instigating?

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

You don't want your little one hurt, of course, but your bigger one needs to tell the puppy what is okay and what isn't. It sounds to me like your older one is acting appropriately.  I would make sure that they are separated when you aren't around  until you feel comfortable with their interactions AND to give them a break from each other.

[Nancy and Georgia Brown]

Agree with this 100%.

[Lynda Kamrath]

Agreed.  It takes a little time for the older dog to determine the status he wants followed.  He is in charge of training the puppy to doggie behavior.   They will work it all out.

[Cathy and Daisy and Harper]

My 13 year old maltipoo was a lot less relaxed too when we first brought puppy home. It went away and now they basically ignore each other. My 1 year old goldendoodle seems to know not to bother the old gal. The maltipoo is only 8 pounds and it is quite funny to see her put the 58 pounder in her place! Hang in there!

[DonMarie and Picco]

It's hard dealing with little kids sometimes, they can be so annoying!  He's just setting boundaries for the pup and showing who's the big brother.   I agree to separate them to give the older dog some relaxation and attention from you.  The pup could hang out in a crate or something for some down time.

[Joani, Skadi & Elli]

Yes...little kids can be very annoying to the "elderly" LOL.  Remember the old saying..."go away kid you're bothering me"  Same in the dog world...and don't forget, your new little darlin' has those razor sharp teeth that are extremely unpleasant when they sink in to skin & fur!  Supervised play definitely...only if the "first" born can tolerate the new addition.  I get exhausted too when my grandkids come to visit and want me to go "24" hours without a break...all that energy...all that excitement...too much for this old gal!  Have fun with your new baby!