[fxeditor]

Originally Posted by tabs

When you have another kid, are you gona get rid of the older one because he doesn't like the new one?

Dogs are part of the family, that is a responsibility you take on when you bring one into the house. The fact that the dog gets between strangers and the kid shows that the dog has accepted the new additon as part of the family and is being protective. The rest is internal family dynamics.

Dogs are big on Seniority, the eye of the needle here is that you have had a 7 or 8 year relationship with this dog that is HISTORY and can not be rewritten. Its years in the family has to be given some respect. The dog needs some reaassurence that its seniorty is still respected (just like you would give Grandma and Grandpa respect) . That dog has known you longer then your kid has.

Dogs are also big on fairness. If I pet one I give the other attention as well.

I think this situation is very workable, but there is a new family dynamic and one has to be sensitive to and pay attention to the nuance of what is going on. I base that upon the fact that the dog is being protective.

By being protective the dog is taking responsibilty for a younger member of the pack/family.

Well said tabs!