Pet Question

[Karin]

Hi all you pet lovers out there!

I have a question for you - we have a beautiful little dog who's the most wonderful pal - friendly, well behaved, affectionate. Problem is, we don't hang out with a lot of other "dog" folks so he doesn't get to see many other four legged friends - and there's nothing he loves more than meeting other dogs on our walks, even the big ones!

We've talked about getting a second little guy - we think it would be fun for us and our little guy - but I'm wondering what you more experienced pet people think. We've never had a dog before, so it's all new to us.

Any advice, stories, wisdom about adding a second dog to the family would be much appreciated.

Thanks everyone!

Karin

[srussell]

Karen,

One of the most important things to remember is to treat your first dog as the "alpha" dog! Feed him first, give him treats first, pet him first, etc. This will establish the "pecking order" when the 2nd dog come home with you. Otherwise, they will fight for dominance...

You know, "Marcia, Marcia, Marcia!"

In my house, it's Shelley (my wife), Chomps (male Black Lab), Willow (female Black Lab), and finally me... I get fed last, treats last, petted last...

Steve

[Granny]

We got Rufistanovich to keep Candy company. At first she was jelous, but now they are great buddies, and it's really good for her, cause we are gone sometimes for many hours. So I would say.... Go for it!

Granny

[Jessica]

i don't know so much about dogs, but I guess it's important to make sure you'll have time for both of them, and that none will feel left out.

[Granny]

Steve, you poor baby, why don't you go to your house outside and count your blessings? You know, the little house with the bone picture over the entrance?

Granny

[MaggieMae]

Hi Karen,

We have two dogs and everything Steve mentioned is true! Your first dog needs to be the leader or alpha leader of the two dogs. Size doesn't matter! Then remember that you are the Supreme Alpha Leader of the whole dog pack!! Our two dogs are very close and keep each other company. I think you'll enjoy it.

Have you heard of "The Dog Whisperer". It's an excellent book and program on TV. It helps explain the pack mentality that all dogs have!

Good luck!

[Karin]

Thanks everyone for the advice - I REALLY appreciate it ! I will do some pondering, and I promise to post some layouts of my "two" sweeties - if we choose to go that route!

If there are any more thoughts out there on bringing home a second dog, I'd love to hear them- I'm an "information hound" myself !

Thanks again!

Karin

[caz38]

I think Steve is pretty well on the mark. We have 4 dogs and our first girl is still top dog, which is important. Our boys tried to dominate at first when they grew up but with a bit of encouragement from us they have all found their order in the family and are very content. We've always had more than one dog and I think it is good for them. They have company and a playmate while you are at work or out.Best of luck and remember 'The more the merrier.'

[srussell]

Steve, you poor baby, why don't you go to your house outside and count your blessings? You know, the little house with the bone picture over the entrance?

Granny

Thanks Granny ... Woof Woof!

Karin,

The funny thing was when we went looking for a new dog (our dog, Tasha of 10 yrs past away from cancer), we only wanted one, but we saw these two ( who were brother & sister from the same litter), in my infinite wisdom, I said "Hey, can we do two for the price of one?" The rest is history

http://www.iireproductions.com/clien...terDogs/ss.htm

[Granny]

Woodydyyy, woofddyydyy, woooddyyyyffyyyyyyy!!!!

Steve, sorry to hear about your doggy.

Well, yes, the more the merrier. They get lonely just like we do. And you should see the way my dogs play with the cat. He is twice their size, but they all love each other. It's really wonderful.

So, Karin, really, go for it, after the first set of furniture is gone, the yard digged up, the shoes eaten, and the fleas take over, what different does it make whether you have one or ten?

Granny