Do you think my 11 week old pom female puppy will learn anything about being a better dog by being with my daughter's, a little over a year old, male pom dog. My daughter's dog, Bear, is a very well adjusted dog. I call Bear my grandpuppy and he is a real joy to be with. I'm hoping my Sophie will turn out a lot like him.

Thanks,

Go for it. Puppies removed from their mother and litter soon enough to be properly socialized to people still need on going contact with other dogs. They need to be carefully selected dogs known to be healthy and up to date on their shots. It is really tough, the more new experiences before 12 weeks, the better, but even the best shot program leaves a window when they can catch parvo and other life threatening diseases.

At a year old, he is still young enough that he should still enjoy puppy play. If he is not, she will get a lesson in no means no. No matter what, a male will seldom hurt a female. I think it will go well even if you have your doubts. This is Ella and Gretchen having a great time the week Ella spent with us:

http://www.photolocker.net/images/Labman/gretchenandellaplaying.jpg

Ella lived in a house with a couple of older dogs that didn't like to play. She may have enjoyed visiting Gretchen more that week than she would have going to Disney World with her family. We always say yes when asked to keep somebody else's puppy. Even Ella was welcome back when a window got broke her first visit. As I think about it, I have so many good stories from the 3 weeks Ella spent with us. We had Joey too the one weekend.

If you want your Sophie to turn out like Bear, your best bet, besides playing together, is to allow your daughter to train her.