Adding a second dog

Question
Hi Cindi, I am in a dilema on whether I should get another dog.  I have Penny who is a 6 yr old bichonpoo and have had her sinince she was 8wks old.  My problem is I'm not sure if she'll take to another dog in the house.  She is very smart and well trained but she doesn't seem to like it whenever we have another dog(s)visit our house. She will jump on the couch to separate herself from them even though the other dog is very laid back and not a dominant type.  She will allow them to approach her and she might play for 5 mins but then she appears a little stressed that they are still around and its as if she wants them to leave so that she can be the only dog in the household again.  Perhaps its just my perception that she doesn't like to have other dogs around her that she prefers to the be the 'only' dog in the household or is could it just be typical dog behaviour when 2 or more dogs are together and that's the way they find out each others dominance in the pack?   Could it be that if I brought another dog into the house she will accept it and get along?   I was thinking of getting a male either a small maltese, chihuahua, mini dachsund or powderpuff chinese crested. Would 2 females get along? I have been studying the different characteristics of the breeds but can't seem to make my mind up which breed would be best suited with Penny.  I would appreciate your opinion whether you think it would be wise for me to add a second dog?  Thank you in advance. Sincerely, Carol

Answer
Carol,
All very good questions and prove you to be a loving responsible pet owner. There's just one problem. Whether or not you get another dog, shouldn't be up to your dog. It should be up to the pack leader in your home, and that, should be you.  Granted there are breeds who are easier to handle and less aggressive. Pretty much any non terrier small breed should be easy for you to acclimate into your home. But, again, this depends on you and your position in your pack.
Type alpha boot camp into your webbrowser and read and learn :). Even small dogs are pack animals and must have a good, strong alpha leader to make their lives comfortable and happy. Once you become established in your home as alpha, you should have NO problem introducing another dog. In fact it should make your girl live longer, and be happier.  Being pack animals they thrive on company. Your dog appearing stressed when other dogs are around is an example of not having a calm, submissive state of mind. Which is what all dogs want and deserve. She will have that once she has confidence in YOU as her leader.  I would not get a doxie personally because they tend to be dominant and have other issues.  Maltese is a good choice, shihtzu, lhasa. Chi's are breed snobbish and don't normally care for other breeds of dog oddly enough. Again. I must stress that you can make ANY dog work in your home as long as you are in charge.Once you are ready to get a new dog, please come back and I'll be glad to help you learn how to introduce the new baby into your pack,
Good luck
Cindi