October 15, 2026, 3:03 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Ozzy is here. For the first time, Elvis will soon meet our new addition. How will he react? And what will Ozzy say about it? Jörg Ziemer (Ziemer & Falke Training Center for Dog Trainers) sees an “envy-like behavior complex” in Elvis. This term describes the behavior when Elvis doesn’t allow other people or dogs to get too close to us. I’m especially anxious about Elvis and Ozzy’s introduction at home.
After about ten minutes, Ozzy falls asleep. He’s tired from whining. Separation anxiety is evident. At least—he’s already done his first business. Naturally, in the car. So much for the festive start of our new life as a family of four. Now we face the encounter that has been the focus for weeks: How will Elvis react to the puppy?
Elvis Gets Agitated
The plan is well thought out: Together with dog trainer Jörg, I pick up Elvis from home. We take him on his usual walk toward the field. Volker waits with Ozzy on a grassy area 200 meters away.
As we round the corner, the big moment arrives. Elvis gets agitated. He sees Volker and then Ozzy. Immediately, he wants to rush over and check out who it is. “Stop,” says Jörg. “Let’s calm Elvis down first.”
That’s easier said than done. It feels like it takes half an hour. Only then can Volker slowly approach with Ozzy, while I hold Elvis by the collar with a finger. Elvis receives praise and treats for calm behavior.
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Ozzy Gets Overwhelmed
Initially, Ozzy reacted a bit uncertainly to Elvis. But after the long wait, his excitement also subsides. “Now Elvis can make contact with Ozzy,” says Jörg.
Elvis quickly approaches Ozzy and sniffs him thoroughly. However, this is a bit too much for the little puppy. So I bring Elvis back to me. Volker and I both move with the dogs, allowing them to make contact repeatedly. “How do you feel?” Jörg asks me. “Well, my concern wasn’t about the meeting on neutral ground, but the situation at home,” I reply.
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At Home, We’ll See If It Really Works
We’ll get to that later. When I added a puppy to my first dog, he showed the behavior most first dogs exhibit: They initially allow the newcomer only to breathe their air. Nothing more. That’s perfectly okay. I’m fine with Elvis forbidding Ozzy from going into his dog bed. We’ve already put away the toys to prevent conflicts.
“It’s important that Elvis is praised for every positive action with Ozzy,” Jörg supports. I can’t even count how many times I’ve said “Good job, Elvis” this afternoon. Jörg is visibly pleased: “This is a textbook introduction.”
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Is the Danger Now Averted?
“The worst is probably over for today. But, of course, we must keep an eye on how the situation between the two dogs develops in the coming weeks.” One thing is clear: Elvis keeps a close watch on the little one and monitors every action. Meanwhile, I observe Elvis closely and monitor almost every one of his actions. So now we have a dog watching the puppy and me watching both dogs. Relaxation apparently needs to spread in this household.
The first day is done. I’m relieved. At the same time, I’m pretty sure: This is just the calm before the storm. And I was right…