Bringing home a new puppy is exciting but can also bring unexpected challenges to your household. One of dog owners' most common struggles is getting their older dog to share toys or space with the new pup. While it’s normal for dogs to feel possessive of their belongings, this behavior can escalate if not addressed.

For example, resource guarding is a behavior in which dogs guard items like toys, food bowls, or even spots on the couch. If they feel threatened, this might show up as a growl, snap, or bite. This can make it hard for your two dogs to bond and enjoy playtime. Watching them bicker over objects can feel like an all-out war, leaving you wondering what to do.

The good news is there are simple steps you can take to ease the tension and teach your dog to share. Let’s break down how to approach this issue step by step to help your older dog accept the new puppy—and maybe even become friends.

1. Start with Human Interaction

Focus on positive human interaction before you ask your dog to share toys with the new puppy. Spend quality time with your older dog to help them feel secure and valued. Engage in play and offer treats to reinforce their bond with you. This reassures the dog that the new pup isn't a threat to their place in your home. When introducing the puppy, maintain calm energy to avoid stressing your older dog. A relaxed owner sets the tone for a peaceful transition.

2. Recognize Signs of Resource Guarding

Watch your dog's behavior closely. Signs of resource guarding, such as growling, snapping, or guarding objects, are common in the dog world. If your dog shows these behaviors, they may feel threatened when the puppy approaches their:

• Food bowl
• Toys
• Other objects

Resource guarding is a natural behavior, but it needs to be managed to avoid conflicts. Early recognition can prevent escalation and help the two dogs coexist peacefully.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or play. Positive reinforcement helps your dog learn that sharing toys leads to good outcomes. For example, introduce the JW Treat Tower Treat Dispensing Dog Toy to create a fun and rewarding experience. Give treats when your dog allows the new puppy to be near their toys without showing signs of aggression. Reinforcing positive moments can encourage your dog to share toys willingly.

4. Teach the "Drop It" Command

Training your dog to obey the "drop it" command is key to managing toy-sharing situations. Practice by offering a low-value toy and encouraging your dog to release it using a cheerful tone and a treat. When they drop the toy, reward them immediately. Repeat this until your dog learns the command reliably. This skill helps you maintain control during play and ensures safety when two dogs interact.

5. Gradually Introduce the New Puppy

Introducing a new puppy into the home requires patience. Start with short, supervised interactions. Bring in engaging toys like the Chuckit! Bacon Sniff Fetch Ball to create positive shared experiences. Let your dog explore the new pup's scent and presence at their own pace. Keep sessions brief to avoid overwhelming either dog and increase interaction time gradually as they grow comfortable.

6. Practice with Low-Value Toys First

Most dogs are more likely to share less valuable items. Begin training with low-value toys that your dog is less attached to. Let the two dogs play under supervision and reward calm behavior. Once they are comfortable sharing low-value objects, you can move on to higher-value toys. This step-by-step approach helps reduce stress and builds trust between the dogs.

7. Reward Cooperative Play

Encourage cooperative play by rewarding both dogs when they interact calmly and share toys. Praise them for playing well and use treats as a motivator. Rewards help reinforce the idea that good behavior leads to positive outcomes. Make playtime fun and engaging for both dogs to strengthen their bond and reduce the chance of conflict.

8. Schedule Alone Time

Both dogs need alone time to decompress. Schedule separate play and relaxation times for your older dog, giving them a break from the new puppy’s energy. Introducing comforting toys like the Zoobilee Farmer Heggies Dog Toy can help them feel secure during this downtime. Alone time prevents overstimulation and ensures each dog feels valued.

9. Create a Safe Space

Provide a safe space for your dog to retreat when it needs peace. A crate, a quiet room, or a designated corner with its favorite toys can offer comfort. This space allows your dog to relax without feeling pressured to interact with the new pup. Respect your dog's boundaries and ensure the puppy doesn’t invade this area.

10. Be Patient and Consistent

Training two dogs to coexist takes time. Stay consistent with routines, commands, and rewards. Celebrate small successes and understand that some breeds and personalities take longer to adjust. Patience and consistency help build trust and prevent long-term behavioral issues. Maintaining a positive and calm approach will guide your dogs toward a harmonious relationship.

Fostering Harmony: Building a Bond Between Two Dogs

Training two dogs to coexist harmoniously takes practice. Remember, most dogs learn through consistent guidance. Equip yourself with high-quality supplies like Petmate’s premium dog toys to make playtime fun, safe, and rewarding for both dogs. Your dogs can learn to share, play, and thrive with time, patience, and love.