pekingese

Question
I am thinking of buying a second pekingese so that my first peke has company. Our first pekingese Marley is a male 7 months old and our new puppy will be female. I just want to know if they are likely to get along ng enjoy each others company. In the past we had two male pekingese and they fought all the time. We had to rehome one and it was very sad.
Also is there anything we can do to help them have a positive relationship. issues over food and attension are ones I am unsure how to handle.

Thanks Nicola

Answer
Hi Nicola,

First, does Marley enjoy the company of other dogs? If he doesn't, getting another dog might be a hard sell. Usually, a male and female dog will get along pretty well. Most males will allow a female dog to dominate him, even when it appears she's being terribly bossy.

Second, is Marley neutered? Intact dogs are more likely to display dominance, territorial, and protective aggressive behavior.

Aggression is not the same as dominate behavior. Between two dogs, one is going to be more dominate than the other, but that does not mean that they will fight. Having one dog that is more dominate than the other is a normal part of dog "society", and you can expect it.

You need to consider Marley's temperament. You want the new dog's temperament to compliment Marley's personality. Two dogs that both want to be "top dog" will mean fighting. It's best when one dog is naturally more submissive than the other.

When the time comes, it will help both your current dog and new puppy if they are introduced correctly. You can read here how to introduce a new dog into your home here:
http://www.hswaynepets.org/health/dogs/introducing.htm

Best of luck,
Patti