Will a new puppy 'make or break' my elderly female german shepherd dog?

Question:
 I have a 12.year-old 4 female German Shepherd cross Labrador who is becoming really lethargic. Would getting a puppy rejuvenate her or depress her more? I would really like a puppy but wouldn't get one if it would make my old girl worse.

Answer:
Having a puppy around could give your old dog a new lease of life, but then again it could make her life miserable if the puppy was very lively and tormented her. Some breeds, particularly Gundogs and other working types, can be very lively as puppies, so spend some time looking at what breed would be appropriate.

Another idea would be to wait until a friend gets a new puppy and see what they are like together. You normally get a good idea within an hour of introducing them. If you do intend get a puppy, then consider the following:

• It's not a good idea for the new puppy and older resident dog to have total access to each other, because the puppy will bond with the older dog before it does with you.
• It's important for all concerned that there are plenty of times when the puppy is on his own as well as alone with you, not least for the old dog's sanity! Use a crate and/or stair gate to keep the pup separate from you/the other dog as required, but where he can still see you both. This will be helpful in teaching him to be calm around you and the older dog.
• If you can see the puppy is irritating your old dog, then have a 'time out' session by moving the pup out of the way.

New puppy aside, have you thought about trying some new things with your old dog to brighten up her life? Take her to the vet for a health check to ensure she's healthy, and then source a hydrotherapy pool as swimming could give her a new lease of life. We have many old dogs that come to our pool that can now enjoy the activities ant walks their owners thought they were past managing.

 If your old girl likes swimming you could have a different dog on your hands - one that is quite capable of helping you keep a young dog in line.

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