Ripa and Consuelos Hire Trainer for Pup Tension
The couple brought in a professional dog trainer after their new rescue puppy, Javi, clashed with their 6-year-old dog, Lena.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Dogs
Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos hired a professional dog trainer to address aggression between Javi, a rescue puppy they adopted three weeks ago, and their dog Lena. Lena became aggressive toward Javi while he was trying to play with her.
Why it matters
The situation shows how a new rescue dog can disrupt an existing household pet dynamic and why professional guidance may help. The couple first met Javi during an Adopt a Dog Week segment on Live.
Javi was adopted three weeks before November 5, 2026, and was originally named Lucas. Lena is 6 years old, and the couple's previous dog, Chewie, died in February 2025 at age 17.
The players
Kelly Ripa
Kelly Ripa is an American television host best known as co-host of Live with Kelly and Mark.
Mark Consuelos
Mark Consuelos is an American actor and television host who co-hosts Live with Kelly and Mark alongside his wife, Kelly Ripa.
The details
The couple brought in a dog trainer who worked with both the dogs and the couple to change household behavior. Javi's arrival was delayed by a parasite diagnosis before he came home.
Timeline
February 2025: Chewie died at age 17.
October 13, 2026: Javi's adoption was announced.
Thursday, November 5, 2026: Ripa and Consuelos discussed the trainer and Javi on air.
Monday, November 16, and Tuesday, November 17, 2026: Four episodes will be taped in Clearwater Beach, Florida.
Culture Shift
The couple's public adoption of Javi through the Adopt a Dog Week segment on Live with Kelly and Mark reflects how televised rescue campaigns are reaching viewers directly into their own homes. The on-air discussion of household challenges adds a candid view of pet adoption beyond the initial feel-good moment.
Adding a rescue dog to a home with an existing dog can require guidance on introductions and daily routines. Working with a professional trainer is one practical option when two dogs are not getting along.
The takeaway
Introducing a new dog into a household with an established pet often takes patience and structured guidance. A professional trainer can help both dogs and owners adjust their routines.
What happens next
Four episodes of Live with Kelly and Mark will be taped at the Sandpearl Resort in Clearwater Beach, Florida, on November 16 and 17, 2026.
Further reading
For more on canine behavior and training, see Dogs coverage.
Source note: This article includes information reported by People.
