Missing schnauzers

Question
Hi Karen,
  I recently lost my Lucy to kidney failure. She was a schnauzer and I also have Max (schnauzer). Max is extremely territorial, but needs a friend. What breed, gender size, etc. would you suggest to see if it can work???
Thanks,
Mary Ellen

Answer
Most any breed should work, as long as it isn't too reactive and into eating other dogs. Some breeds, just due to their size, can be hazardous... one swipe with a paw and a small dog can have an injured back. Most schnauzers respond well to other schnauzers, so that would most likely be your best bet. If you want to go up in size, you might try a standard schnauzer.

The safest combination is usually male/female, as most males will defer to the females, but same sexes can be okay if the two dogs are at opposite ends of the dominance spectrum (one more dominant/the other more submissive). If you get a bitch, be sure you have her spayed before her first season to avoid any problems. Neutered males will still breed an in-season bitch (I am assuming your male is neutered.)