Darla behaviour regression

[Chinchi]

We collected our 8 week old pup Hugo this morning and Darla is absolutely thrilled with her new baby brother. They have been playing beautifully together and I'm sure they are going to be the very best of friends.

I had read that older dogs can regress a little when a new pup is brought home. I didn't exactly know in what way to expect and how soon, but tonight Darla ran into the lounge and peed on the carpet. She hasn't had an accident for over 8 months, so this is very out of character for her.

We have been making a huge fuss of her so she won't feel like we are replacing her. Has she just regressed a little and is this normal? I guess we will have to toilet train them both now

[seashel]

I've not had any experience of this so can't really offer advice other than suggest perhaps she was just over excited? I wanted to say 'welcome home' to Hugo and I'm deighted to hear he has settled in well. Looking forward to seeing lots of pictures of course!

I do have one tip and that is to make sure that both dogs get sufficient individual attention and you also get them used to spending time apart. Because they are quite close in age you don't want them to become too dependent on each other to the extent that they prefer being together than being with you or that they become anxious if they have to be seperated e.g a trip to the vets.

[mellie]

Yeah for you !! Love the name Hugo and i am looking forward to seeing some frolicking puppies pics. Sounds like so much excitement, so a little accident doesn't seem out of line. I 'm sure you will get everyone going where you want them to very soon.

[Chinchi]

Thanks seashel and mellie, I will post some pics of them playing together soon!

I think you are right. She had no accidents over night, I think the whole excitement of Hugo ran away with her!

[Chinchi]

Just a quick update - Darla hasn't had a single accident since, so it looks like it was a one off. Plus, it looks like she is helping to teach Hugo potty training. He is now going where she goes and he's having very few accidents which is great at his age. Still won't trust him with the carpet areas until he's a little older though!