Yorkie Play Date
 

This week a friend will bring their 5 yr old Yorkie to play with our 7 mos old pup.

What concerns should I have.

Any help would be appreciated.

TIA

Assuming both dogs are current on shots, I think it's a great idea. I've brought young Yorkies to a bunch of dog meetups, and they've done well.

But things to watch for, in my opinion:

Puppies tend to be pushy, i.e., they'll swarm other dogs just wanting to play. Not all older dogs have the skills to know what to do with that pushiness. And not all puppies know the signs that an older dog has had enough.

You should just watch all interaction closely. If the older dog is handling it, let it go. The perfect situation is for the older dog to play but also to warn the puppy with a bark or a false charge when it has had enough. As long as there's no real biting involved, that's an education for the puppy.

But watch for signs of the older dog standing more erect, looking uncomfortable, etc. If your pup doesn't see those signs, it might be time for you to step in and give the older dog a breather.

All interactions are different, so you just have to watch and try not to worry too much. Most of the time, the dogs work it out.

Hope that didn't confuse you too much! Good luck, and bring a camera!

Edit: Almost forgot! If you have a shy puppy who doesn't like the interaction, be prepared to step in and give your pup some space if it seems overwhelmed and can't resolve it with a bark or a toothless snap on its own.