Buying GSD Pup - Will it Get Along with my Other Dogs

Question
Dear Sir/maam,  We have two Mini Schnauzers, female 10mo. and male 5mo. The female is more dominant than the male,but not by much. We would like to add a Shepherd to the mix, but would like your expertise on this matter.  Do you think that they would all get along and what gender would be best. Thank you so much.

Answer
Pam,

Thank You for inquiring. A German shepherd dog, especially a pup can adjust well in with other dogs.  It seems that you have 2 young dogs and by adding a german shepherd pup to the mix you should not have issues with them getting along.  How ever you will have then created a pack.

You already see some dominance with your female which is to be expected because she is your Alpha dog.  With three dogs, you will see much more of this natural dog behavior and would need to educate your self about the pack, and how they interact, especially since you are the ultimate pack leader in your home, you'll need to learn how to play that roll.  If you don't your dogs will and that is not recommended. Check out my article at http://www.gallantshepherds.com/packleader.htm and consider purchasing some good books on this subject.  

Before considering another dog keep in mind that your new dogs all need to be socialized around people, other dogs, strangers, small animals and children.

If not socialized they tend to jump up, growl, bark or generally act inappropriately in these scenarios.

All the dogs are high energy dogs that will need to be walked regularly and have an outlet for it.  Dogs who are walked and regularly are generally more calm and better behaved at home

Having two dogs is a lot of work but when adding another there is always the never ending mess in the yard, higher food & vet bills, more crates, etc.  When you want to go away or take them for walks you'll have to take three with you and it is a good idea to walk them and socialize them individually because they tend to gain their confidence from the pack so individual socialization is a must so each dog becomes confident in any given situation.

If purchasing another dog, either a male or female will work so long as they are spayed or neutered.  Intact males can be a handful when they smell a female in heat and are more likely to get in fights, roam, not listen when a female is around, neutering tends to curb that.  Females dogs tend to burn grass with their urine.

I recommend reading the articles on my website help page at http://www.gallantshepherds.com/help/htm  

There are many good articles on my help page about dominance issues, becoming a pack leader, socialization, buying a dog, dealing with behavior issues and more.  Although geared to german shepherds they will be a valuable assistance to you and your Schnauzers.

Glad to be of assistance
Sincerely

Gallant German Shepherds
http://www.gallantshepherds.com