Jack Russell with a Westie

Question
Hi, We have a 7 year old female Westie.  I am at home full time.  We have two kids (17 and 14) and am considering adding to our family with a Jack Russell Terrier.  I've read up on the breed and know about its personality and energy levels.  My question is its compatibility with our Westie.  She gets along well with other dogs (especially ones the same size as her) and is still very energetic.  Any comments, or things we should be aware of?  Thank you,
Pam  

Answer
Hi Pam,

If you are getting a new puppy, you shouldn't have any problems except maybe the new puppy driving your Westie crazy wanting to play all the time :)))  
If you are planning on bringing an older dog into your home, (no matter what the breed), you might have a little trouble, or you may have no trouble at all.  Unfortunately there is no way to know in advance if the two will get along.
As a general rule, most spayed/neutered dogs do better, as well as one of each of the opposite sex. Size plays a role too, but the Jack and Westie are about the same size.  

It's my hope that the Jack and your Westie will come to love eachother and really play well.  It's a plus that you will be home with them and train them together correctly right from the start.  

Some things to do when you bring a new dog in....
Don't give the Jack any hand me downs of your Westie's. He should have his own new bed, blanket, bowls, etc..  
Give your Westie some extra attention and TLC so she knows you're not replacing her with this new intruder ;)
Spend seperate quality time alone with each dog.
Introduce them outside on the lawn in a neutral place, don't let the Jack go bounding on inside the house first. Let the Westie lead him in. You have to immediately put the Jack in a submissive place within "the pack".  You being the leader, your family second, your Westie third.
As always, be calm, patient and pay attention to how they behave with eachother.
A lot depends on where you are getting the Jack and if he's a puppy, an adult, or a rescue dog. Obviously it will be easiest if he's a puppy or a trained adult that came from a loving home; but you will definitely face some adjustments and maybe some challenges.  
Why don't you ask wherever you are getting the dog from, if you can have a small trial period to see how they get along, and if it just doesn't work, then you could have the option of giving him back.
Write anytime for anything, and good luck to all of you!!