2 vs 1

Question
I have a 9 month old female German Shepherd. She is starved for attention 24/7.I would like to get another  one so she has a playmate.I was told I shouldnt have 2 females as one would try to harm the other.Is this true? I have fenced in the backyard since she prefers to be outside and it gives her alot of space to run.I spend lot of time with her but cannot devote 24/7 outside.

ar


Answer
It is NOT acceptable to confine a dog outdoors, even if you have another dog.  If she is starved for attention, getting another dog will produce TWO dogs that are NOT SOCIALIZED, and STARVED for attention.  I don't know what you mean by "a lot of time with her"..the GSD needs a job and positive reinforcement training.  This is a very bidable breed, a perfect candidate for work of any sort.  It requires intellectual challenge.  Using positive reinforcement, you can teach this dog just about anything, including how to "find" people hidden outdoors and indoors.  Leaving her alone (or even with a companion) outdoors is going to produce a FEARFUL dog that is not tolerant of any new person, living being, situation, etc.  The GSD, when fearful, CAN and often does become aggressive.  You should have done your homework before obtaining this breed, and you should be taking her OFF your property EVERY DAY to introduce her to new people, other living things, places, situations, etc.  Your dog is bored because she is not being properly engaged by YOU.  If you insist on obtaining another dog, you must DO YOUR HOMEWORK and be certain the line being bred from (if a GSD) is not Schutzhund oriented but is bred for companionship.  INTERVIEW the dam (mother) and, if possible the stud (father) to be sure temperament is sound, no fear issues are present and absolutely NO aggression is demonstrated toward "strangers."  If you do NOT do this, your present GSD will obtain the fear of your new puppy.  Also, since you may not be spending adequate quality time with your present GSD, adding a new puppy will TRIPLE your work load, since you will need to socialize BOTH dogs, INDEPENDENT of one another.  I suggest strongly that you do the work THIS dog requires to save her future agony.