Helping to introduce a new puppy to our 3 1/2 year old Mini Dachshund

Question
We have a 3 1/2 year old neutered male mini dachshund.  He has been the only since we got him and is pretty spoiled.  He does have fear aggression to humans and other animals.  We are thinking of adding a female mini dachshund.  WE would like any help that will make this addition easier for him and for us.  Also at what age would it be safe to spay the female?  He is not well socialized due to some bad advise we received when brought him home. He has been through many sessions of obedience sessions but all the other puppies were asked to give  him his space because of this aggression.  I have read books but I am getting more and more nervous about this.

Answer
Donna, you will have to take things slowly with him. Keep the two dogs separated through the use of baby gates/crates/etc., so that if he becomes aggressive, he cannot actually get to her. Take them for walks together, using 4-6 foot long leashes. Don't allow them to play or 'interact' on these walks; just let them walk together. :^)  If he can behave in an obedience class, he should have little problem walking with another dog. I would recommend that one person walk him and another person walk the new dog, so that if you need to, you can walk a little further apart.

You might want to consider hiring a trainer that can come to your house and work with you one-on-one when you bring the new puppy home, to help the transition go more smoothly.

You should spay your female before she goes into heat for the first time. For a dachshund, anytime before 6-8 months of age is a good time.