Getting a Second Dog - What You Need To Know

As many dog lovers find, having one dog is sometimesanother female dog enters their domain. You may
just not enough. Many people feel that their existingneed to alter your dog before she will accept another
dog would enjoy the company of a new play friend orfemale. She may still show some aggression after
they may feel that a second dog would make thebeing spayed, so a male puppy may be a wiser
family complete. Whatever the reasons for wantingchoice. (Don't forget to have at least one of your pets
another dog, there are a few important things that youaltered, unless you intend having a new litter of
may want to consider.First, you may want to considerpuppies.)If you have an older dog, it may be best not to
your dog's nature. If your beloved pet is a bit of a bullybuy a puppy. These dogs often have aches and pains
and the new dog isn't submissive, there are going toand are less patient than they were when they were
be some major battles before they sort out which dogyounger. Instead, you may want to consider adding a
is in charge. Sometimes, two dogs are equallymore settled and mature dog to the family. After all, it
dominant and these battles flare up again and again.will be easier on your older dog to adjust to a dog that
By the time you visit your veterinarian for the fourth orhas finished teething and chewing.Finally, some breeds
fifth time to have their battle scars treated, you mayof dogs have more trouble accepting a new puppy
be regretting the purchase of a second dog.If youthan other breeds. Some of the toy breeds become a
have a very timid dog as your first dog, you may alsobit spoiled and jealous of other dogs. If you have a
run into difficulty. Your new dog may bully your firstpampered Yorkshire Terrier or Miniature Pinscher, you
dog and make her life a misery. The ideal second dogmay find that introducing the new puppy can be a bit
is one that doesn't lean too far in either direction. Makeof a challenge. Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, and other breeds
your choice for a second dog around the personalitythat have problems with aggression may have
of your existing dog. If you have a submissive dog atproblems, as well. However, each dog is an individual
home, try and choose a dog that will not be tooand some dogs who are members of these breeds
boisterous and domineering.Also consider your currenthave no problem accepting a new puppy.Article By
dog's size. If you have a Shih Tzu, you may not wantAndrew Strachan. Find lots more information about
to buy a Rottweiler puppy. A big, puppy can hurt agetting a second dog and different types of dogs at
small dog quite a few times before it realizes its ownLots of help and advice too.
strength.Unaltered female dogs are often upset when