Getting a Second Dog - Introducing a New Puppy

If you have a dog in your household, and are thinking about爂etting a second dog, there are some things you should consider before making a decision. The first and probably most important thing to k...

If you have a dog in your household, and are thinking about爂etting a second dog, there are some things you should consider before making a decision. The first and probably most important thing to know is that dogs of?the opposite sex will be much more likely to live together peacefully. Dominance will need to be established and 2 males, even if both are neutered may have difficulty in getting along. Trying to introduce a second female into your home would be even worse than 2 males in the same house. For some reason, females are more inclined to fight, even to the point of serious injury or death.

Now that you know whether you should get a male or a female puppy, you should consider which type of dog will fit best within your family and household. Ask yourself if your family has time to spend with a dog that needs lots of exercise. Do you have room for 2 dogs to run and play? Can you afford to feed and provide vet care for 2 dogs? If you decide that a second dog is right for your family, there are some things to know to make the introduction a bit easier.

If you are thinking about getting a puppy, consider if your dog will be tolerant of a frisky playmate. If you have a fenced yard, you should introduce the two dogs to each other outside. Let them sniff and play and observe how they get along. Older dogs are aware of a puppy being a puppy because of their scent, so they may be a little more patient. When you bring them in the house, they will need to be fed separately. Always be there to supervise the two dogs together. There will be some instances when your first dog will have to show the puppy who is boss and you don't want it to get out of hand. The puppy will learn quickly. You may need to interrupt play if it is getting too rough, but be careful not to scold or punish either dog.

Make use of a crate for training the puppy. This will provide the pup with a safe place for timeout and also provide the older dog with a break from the pup. Always feed and give treats to your older dog first. This will show his place as the number one dog in the house. Do not expect the two dogs to share toys. Give them each the same new toy at the same time. You may want to separate them for individual time with their favorite toys.

You and your family should spend time with each dog individually every day. This assures your first pooch of his special place as number one and gives you quality bonding and training time with the puppy. With guidance and care, your two dogs will become fast friends and companions for your family and for each other.

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