Getting a new puppy to bring into our home, Pen/Crate question???

Hi there,

We currently have an amazing, sweet and wonderful 2 year old Labradoodle and are adding another sweet and amazing 3 month old Labradoodle to the family on Wednesday.

I have little doubt that these 2 will be able to acclimate and be best of friends, due to experience with our oldest among other dogs, but I'm just wondering how to deal with crating....

SO, with that said, here's our current situation...

When we leave, our oldest stays in her crate. The crate size is just right for her, with not a ton of extra room, but sufficient.

So come Wednesday when we add our newest, we'll have a separate crate for her.

I'm wondering how we would best arrange a "pen" type situation for once they become close and have bonded a bit with each other.

I was thinking of a larger pen that would have ample space for the both of them, and separate beds also.

Would this be okay? When should we look into doing it? How should we start the acclimation?

I haven't seen any good arguments from keeping the "pack" separate in their own smaller crates, and I would think as long as there is enough room, they could assist at keeping each other company, as even now their temperaments are very complimentary.

Would appreciate any help! Getting very excited about Wednesday!

(oh, and if anyone cares, our oldest is Olive, and the new puppy will be Eleanor, Ellie for her "every day" name)

Thanks!!

Nick

Very exciting, hope to see some pics :).

I personally would continue to crate seperately for quite a while. I would worry that the puppy might become to focused on the other dog to the detriment of developing a good training bond with the family. I would have them in crates that were maybe facing each other to begin with but then would move to having them side by side.

With my two I would crate our puppy in our bedroom and also babygate our older dog in the same room. That way they were close enough for company but the older dog (much older then your situation) still got her regular peace and quiet time.

Good luck :goodvibes:.