Sorry for long post in advance. Looking for thoughts from people who adopted a second when already having a Cav in the household. We are an adult two-person household. We have had a male (big guy in photo) for two years. He is the gentlest dog we have ever known. Gets along with everyone, does very well when boarded with a multi dog pet sitter. Never once anything but love for people and other dogs. He is very bonded with me and constantly snuggling on my lap as I am retired and most at home while my wife is still working
This weekend we rescue-adopted a a tiny female.The two dogs met and interacted and hung out before we adopted. We brought her home to tail wags all around, co-play, and both dogs happily sitting and sleeping together on my lap (as seen in the photo) for the first two days. The established male was perfectly accommodating and seemed fine with sharing his person.
Unfortunately, last night, the male (established dog) was on the floor chewing his treat and the new dog was on my lap. When he came over, wagging his tail and was ready to hop up and join his new sister on my lap, she (the new dog) growled at him and showed her teeth. Established dog got extremely upset with this, snarled and jumped at her and we had to immediately separate them. After a bit of time out from each other, they were reintroduced without incident though the mood is clearly changed. The new dog is avoiding established dog and seems weary of him and established dog is intently watching what the new dog is up to while “distancing” himself from me. In human terms - he seems very hurt. Obviously, I don’t want the older dog upset and we are hoping that each will eventually be able to share either of our laps and establish their own close relationship as well. It’s only been a couple of days but any advice from those that have had similar experience is much appreciated. Thank you!