two jacks

Question
I have a 6 year old male (neutered and well behaved) and we are looking to adopt another 7 month old male who desperately needs a home. What do you think? Is this a good idea?

Answer
Hi Todd,

I wish there was an easy answer for you, but there's not. I'm Sorry.
There is just no way to determine if the two will get along.
It's the same with people, sometimes you like someone, and sometimes you just don't, no matter how hard you try!
Typically it is said that two males don't get along, but a good thing on your side is that they are still both relatively young and trainable! It will be crucial for you to make sure right from the start that they have intense, firm and good training. You will have to establish immediately that YOU are the dominant male in the house, and set clean, concise rules for them. Any aggression will have to be immediately dealt with and instilled in them that it is absolutely not acceptable. Training is a whole other story. You can not show either dog that you are nervous or worried in the least. They can sense it and will take advantage of it. I suggest a certified program with an experienced trainer who works in a dog school (NOT a pet store trainer, who are fine for the basics but are usually too busy to really do a thorough job). Research the schools in your area and pick one that you like. Exercise will be a huge part of keeping the dogs in a calm state of mind. Daily, intense exercise will burn some energy (and aggression) off.
Truthfully Todd, it's a bit of a gamble, but if the 2nd dog is neutered and both are trained correctly from the start, it CAN work out. Remember though, sometimes no matter what you do, there will be some dogs that just won't or can't get along with eachother. It won't be your fault, it's just the way it is.
If you decide to adopt the other male, perhaps you could do it with a trial period and the stipulation that if the dogs do not get along that you could bring the little guy back.
Patience, continuity, love and leadership work wonders!
Good luck with whatever you decide. I think you're a wonderful person to be considering saving the other Jack. I'll be routing for you all.
Take care,
Carol