Husky/Shepard Compatibility

Question
I have a 4 year old male Husky/Shepherd. Do you have any recommendations on compatibility with other dogs? I am considering rescuing a Black Lab mix puppy. I'm not sure how old (but look to be pretty young) and it could be a male or female (there is a litter of six).

Answer
Hi Adam,

What you need to consider is your current dog's temperament, as well as the temperament of which ever dog you're considering when getting another dog.

Does your current dog like to be with other dogs? If he doesn't, then any dog you'd bring home is likely to be a big problem.
If your current dog is a bit of a bully and the new dog isn't submissive, there are going to be some major battles before they sort out which dog is in charge. Sometimes, two dogs are equally dominant and these battles flare up again and again. By the time you visit your veterinarian for the fourth or fifth time to have their battle scars treated, you may be regretting the purchase of a second dog.

The ideal second dog is one who's personality doesn't lean too far in either dominance or submission. Make your choice for a second dog around the personality of your existing dog. If you have a submissive dog at home, try and choose a dog that will not be too boisterous and domineering. A puppy is pretty much a "clean slate", and might be a good choice because it probably won't yet have dominance issue.

You didn't say if your current dog is neutered or not. Ideally, your dog should be neutered before bringing home another dog. A neutered male dog will usually get along well with a spayed female, or another neutered male. Your dog isn't too old that getting a puppy would be out of the question, but they would require supervision, for both their sakes.

Here is a short article you should read before getting a second dog:
http://www.petbehaviourcentre.com/us/us_articles/us_second.htm

If your dog is current on his inoculations, maybe bring him around to visit the puppies (once the puppies are about 8 weeks old).  See how he interacts with the pups, there might be one in the litter he gets along with particularly well. In that case, your dog will have found his new pal.
Here is an article that tells you how to introduce a new dog or puppy into your home:
http://ezinearticles.com/?Bringing-Home-a-Second-Dog&id=517768

Best of luck,
Patti