“My dog runs away from my new puppy!” Finding your dog running away from your new puppy, or noticing they run away from other dogs too? It’s something that has left many dog parents out there scratching their heads, unsure of if their dog is playing or actually scared.

In this article, we’ll explain why your dog runs away from a new puppy or other dogs, pinpointing whether it’s due to fear, playfulness, or something else. Then, we’ll discuss strategies for helping your dog feel more comfortable and calm around other dogs, whether they’re big, small, or the new puppy in your home. Let’s begin!

My Dog Runs Away From New Puppy

If your dog runs away from your new puppy, it may seem strange but it’s not actually that unusual. This behavior can stem from various factors, including fear, uncertainty, or a lack of interest in engaging with the puppy’s high energy levels.

Why Does My Dog Run Away From Puppy?

Your dog runs away from your puppy primarily due to discomfort or fear. The sudden introduction of a new, energetic member can be overwhelming and stressful for an older dog, especially if they are not accustomed to being around other dogs.

Additionally, the older dog might be uncertain how to appropriately respond to the puppy’s playful advances, leading to avoidance as a coping mechanism.

Dog Runs Away From New Puppy: Play or Scared?

Determining whether your dog is running away from the new puppy out of playfulness or fear depends on observing their body language and overall behavior. A dog engaging in play will display a more relaxed body posture (wagging tail, play bows, etc.) and may periodically engage with the puppy before running away again.

In contrast, a dog that is scared will likely exhibit signs of stress, such as flattened ears, tail tucked, or avoiding eye contact.

Dog Running Away From Puppy, What Do I Do?

To address your dog running away from the puppy, focus on creating positive associations and controlled introductions. Initially, you should keep both dogs on leashes during initial interactions to ensure safety.

Training the “stay” command is also a good idea. Start in a quiet environment without distractions and have treats or a toy available to reward your dog. Practice at a closed door. Say the command “stay” and reward your dog when they remain settled and don’t move towards the door.

Gradually introduce opening the door slightly while commanding “stay.” If your dog remains in place, reward them. If not, close the door and repeat until successful. This builds their trust in you while also keeping them around to bond with the puppy.

Your dog running away from a new puppy is a natural reaction to the changes within their environment. These steps will help deal with the issue, but it’s important to remember that the underlying behavioral issues (anxiety, fear, etc.) that were causing all of this to begin with will still be present.

And until you address those, any positive changes you see will only be temporary.

“Well, how do I make these changes last?”

By getting your dog to truly choose to follow your direction, that’s how. I tried many times to write out how you can do that before deciding it made more sense to just link you to the free video series that explains it better than I’d ever be able to.

The series is by a man named Dan who is one of the world’s leading dog obedience trainers. In it, he teaches you how to put an end to things like your dog running away from your puppy and all other misbehavior using his fast and easy-to-follow methods.

In the first video, Dan will reveal to you why the two most common methods of dog training only doom you to failure. You can watch the video now by clicking here. Follow the proven system he’ll show you in his series and you’ll never have to spend another second worrying about why your dog runs away from your puppy ever again!

Why Does My Dog Run Away From Other Dogs?

Your dog runs away from other dogs due to various reasons, including fear, lack of socialization, or past negative experiences. Understanding why your dog exhibits this behavior is crucial in helping them become more comfortable and confident around their canine peers. It’s important to approach this issue with patience and empathy, recognizing that each dog’s reasons for running away can be deeply rooted in their individual experiences and temperament.

Dog Runs Away From Big Dogs

If your dog runs away from big dogs specifically, it might be due to intimidation or fear. Large dogs can seem threatening to smaller or more timid dogs, leading them to run away as a defense mechanism.

This reaction is often based on the dog’s perception of their own vulnerability compared to the size and energy level of the larger dog, or they may have been chased aggressively in the past. Learning the “stay” command will help in these situations, which you can do now in the first section.

Dog Runs Away From Small Dogs

If a dog runs away from small dogs, it’s often because of the high energy levels or anxiety due to the unpredictable movements common in smaller breeds. Some dogs are overwhelmed by the bustling activity of smaller dogs, preferring the company of canines with a more similar temperament or energy level to their own.

How to Calm Dog Around Other Dogs

To help your dog feel calmer around other dogs, begin with controlled, gradual socialization. Start by introducing your dog to other canines in a neutral, controlled environment (like the park), ensuring both animals are on leashes for safety. Training commands like “stay” can be great in these situations, providing your dog with structure and predictability during interactions.

Here’s how to teach the “stay” command:

1. Ask your dog to sit.
2. Open your palm in front of you and say “stay.”
3. Take a few steps back. If your dog stays, reward them with a treat and praise.
4. Gradually increase the distance and duration before rewarding.
5. If your dog moves, gently guide them back to the starting position and repeat the command.

Reward your dog for calm behavior and gradually increase the duration and intensity of these social encounters. Over time, with consistency and positive reinforcement, your dog can learn to associate other dogs with positive experiences, reducing their impulse to run away.

In conclusion, a dog’s tendency to run away from other dogs stems from a variety of factors, including fear, socialization, and personal preference. By understanding the root cause of your dog’s behavior and implementing patient, consistent training and socialization efforts, you can help your dog become more comfortable and even enjoy the company of other dogs.

You’re probably ready to get started now that you have all of your questions about your dog running away from your new puppy answered, so I’ll let you get going on things. Best wishes, and thank you for checking out our article “My Dog Runs Away From New Puppy! What’s Happening + What to Do!”.