Haas: I'm sorry to hear your older dog is depressed. I would like some further details: do the dogs have separate crates? Have you obedience trained either dog? Have you tried canned puppy food for the older dog? (Good nutrition and enticing smell) What kind of life routines do you have? Has anything else changed in this dog's life besides the puppy -- say a move, change in spousal situation, a new baby in the house, etc.? If not, then I would suggest obedience class for the older dog for some quality one-on-one time with you. Separate crates will allow each dog to have his own "room" and be a place for peace from the other ("No puppies allowed"). Do you free feed or feed in separate bowls at specific times? I know with puppies, it is usually necessary to feed more frequently, so it appears to the older dog that the little intruder is getting more attention. That's why I suggest the obedience work with him. It allows him to understand all the rules of the house and you will learn how to train the little squirt as well. Are you consistent in your expectations of behavior? Sometimes we allow youngsters to get away with stuff we wouldn't allow the older dog to do because they're "so cute" doing it. If necessary, feed the youngster in his crate and the older dog in the usual spot. That lets them both know who is allowed the most freedom in the house.

Anti-depressants will take at least two weeks to work and will probably be a lifetime thing unless you talk to a behavior specialist. Is that possible? Your vet might know of one. At least you know your dog is basically healthy! Are you feeding a good quality of dog food in the first place? Have you changed foods recently without a transition period?

Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we all hope the older dog is getting past his depression. Let us know.

By the way, I've had same sex dogs most of the time and had very little problem with that aspect of life. I have always had females except the two males I got for my son (both of whom are in other homes, but not because of behavior problems). I've known other owners that had same sex dogs that did fine together.