A Puppy Introduction

I invited Megan over with her pup, Queenie, to meet Bella.  I wanted to get an idea of how Bella would behave around a puppy.  Megan kindly brought Queenie into the house and let her wander at my request.  We humans sat and talked for a little while before going into Bella's room.  I've learned to let Bella get an initial read of what is transpiring in the outer rooms before I bring someone back.  I know she listens intently.   After several minutes, Megan and I went into the bedroom.  Megan then sat in a chair just out of Bella's sight and avoided making eye contact with her.  I sat in a chair where Bella could see me, while Queenie, a 4 1/2 month old rotty/shepard/lab mix female, explored.  I spoke reassuringly to Bella, and and offered treats to each dog in turn.  The treats were no problem for enthusiastic Queenie, who inhaled them from my finger tips.  Happily, Bella also accepted treats from her safe position on her bed.  Sometimes Bella looked at Queenie, but at no time did she move from her spot, wag her tail or show any signs of actually trying to interact with the puppy.  I felt pleased when Queenie bounded over to me with puppy enthusiasm.  See Bella, dogs love people.  You can, too, sweetie.

Bella didn't hide, or pull her body away from the action.  On the other hand, she made no attempt to touch noses or tails with Queenie.  But I did learn that Bella can tolerate a pup, or at least this particular pup, for a brief period.  There were no negative consequences from the visit later that day; Bella had no problem coming out for a walk immediately after Queenie's departure.  When she is strongly displeased or fearful, Bella won't come out for a walk without urging and reassurance.