Elvis, our beagle

Question
QUESTION: Elvis is an 8 month old beagle we bought as a pup from a breeder.  He is still going through that puppy stage, chewing etc.  but it seems he needs a buddy.  Is it wise to get him a buddy?  Also he has gotten a taste of my home cooking (chicken, homemade pizza etc.) and does not like the iams food any more.  I went to Petco and they sold me duck and potato food from Nature balance at $11.00 a small bag.  I mix it with the iams and he tries to sort it believe it or not.  My question is is there any other like lamb and potato that is not so pricey?
Thanks, Teresa

ANSWER: Hello Teresa!
   Beagles often give us a look as they need a "buddy". But in all actuality its hard to get a beagle a friend. They are very territorial and since Elvis has been with you for a while he is probably going to get jealous, bark, and growl a lot if he gets a new friend and it could give they new guy a scare. The only reason Elvis would be like that is because he loves you and wants to protect you. But if you decide he does need one its best to get them at a young age. Elvis is still young so I wouldn't think to long about it. I would also look into getting a puppy versus a one or two year old dog. The smaller the dog the less inferior Elvis will feel. The next thing about food. We have all been there. Honey, my beagle tasted some chicken her first night home with me and it takes a little work. Try giving Elvis the new beneful lamb mix. It comes in actual Tupperware for dogs, it looks, smells, and I'm sure to them tastes like human food. I will give you a link:

http://www.beneful.com/Dog-Food/Rice-Lamb-Stew/Default.aspx

That should get Elvis back on track. Its a great food for dogs. It not to pricey, but if you get something cheap the quality is going to be terrible and not have any good nutrients in it for Elvis. So, good luck and don't hesitate to ask me anything else. I hope for the best and stick with it he will come around.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I was told that dry dog food is better for the dog's teeth.  Is that true and is the dry Beneful just as tasty to the dog as the wet one.  What do you thind of science diet and nutro? We found a 7 month old beagle in a shelter we are going to go look at.  We are taking Elvis with us to make sure they get along.  Thanks again, Teresa

Answer
Dry dog food is great for their teeth, but so is wet dog food. I only really suggested it to help get him back on track, because they tend to think it is human food. Science Diet and Nutro, are two great choices. Everything about them is great, great source of fiber, protein, and everything they need. I would really recommend those two. When feeding a dog a great dog food it will add years to their lives. I'm happy for you and Elvis I hope the new beagle works out. If you need any help on a subject about the two getting along please ask. It would be my pleasure. Shelter dogs are great dogs that usually get along with other dogs from being around them so much. Usually spayed and neutered, and up to date on vaccinations. Good luck and I hope everything works out!