For the happiest dogs and the safest household, opposite sex dogs almost always do best together. Many same-sex combinations of dogs will fight, sometimes to the death. Those who work out a dominance order may not fare much better.
If both dogs have been neutered, there's an even higher chance the two dogs will get along well. A male and female dog can live in harmony because they don't have to compete over a position at the top of the totem pole.
In some cases, two dogs of the same sex may get along fine, but some experts feel it is best to choose a new pup of the opposite sex. Same sex dogs may become rivals, and there is a greater chance of competition among the two. If you want to play it safe, team your female dog with a male counterpart and vice versa.
Dogs are social animals and usually happier around other dogs, but a second dog will never be a substitute for inattentive, absent or too busy owners.
Many breeders recommend that your first dog be at least one-to-two-years old before you add a second to the family.
Most experts agree that, as a rule, male and female dogs get along better than two females or two males.
Many people are hesitant to adopt a second dog because they assume it will be twice the work and twice the money. But the truth is, owning two dogs doesn't have to be more work – in fact, it can often be easier. And as for the cost, it will cost more money than one but not twice the amount.
Bringing home a new puppy or another adult dog can trigger jealousy in your dog, and they may show signs of aggression toward the new addition. Your dog might growl at the new dog, guard your lap, or try to get in between you and your new furry family member.
It can take up to one month for an old dog and new dog to really settle in and accept each other's position in the pack. If you want a second dog, you need to be ready to commit to this process and not panic.
While many female dogs do get along peacefully, adopting two puppies of the same sex can sometimes be like playing Russian roulette, their future may be a question mark. As cute as they may be, please try to consider that in the future, one of them may have to be re-homed simply because they do not get along.
They can keep each other company. Both dogs will be able to entertain each other and get exercise together. Your older dog could help you train a new puppy. When the dogs have each other, it can help ease separation anxiety.
Here are some top breeds of “easy-going” best second dog breeds: Basset Hound, Goldendoodle, English Foxhound, Cocker Spaniel, Maltipoo, St. Bernard, Great Dane, Vizsla, Whippet, Pug, Golden Retriever, Collie, Poodle and Labrador Retriever.
Keep your new dog near you during their first couple of days. Before allowing them to explore the home, walk them through each room on a leash to help familiarize them with the layout. You can even consider keeping them on a leash for a couple of days until they get used to your routine.
For the happiest dogs and the safest household, opposite sex dogs almost always do best together. Many same-sex combinations of dogs will fight, sometimes to the death. Those who work out a dominance order may not fare much better.
They enjoy friendly interactions with familiar humans or other animals and tend to avoid isolation. That being said, every dog is different has its own temperament and preferences. Some dogs prefer to live alone with their owners, while others prefer having another dog friend in the house.
In dogdom, there's a turn of phrase called, "Second Dog Syndrome". This describes the process of adding another dog to the home quite well, but not necessarily in a positive light. As humans, we are bound to forget all of the time and effort it takes to raise a puppy right.
Having two dogs can feel like a lot of work sometimes, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. From easier training to better mental and emotional health (for you and your dogs!), to saving the lives of animals, there are so many solid reasons to adopt a second dog today.
Depending on their past experiences, their temperament, age, and health, adding another pup might be stressful--for both your dog, and for you. Training two dogs can be tricky.
Most dogs will welcome a new sibling, but it is not always smooth sailing. The furry family member you have now will face many changes when a new dog enters the picture and may feel a bit displaced. He may not like sharing his territory, toys, food, resting places, or humans.
Male dogs are usually more affectionate than females, and some positively crave human attention. You'll find it's always you who brings the cuddling and fussing to an end – he could happily go on like this all day!
If you have several dogs or intend to add to your canine family, a male may be a better fit. Females tend to have more problems with anxiety and phobias. If your house is a loud and busy place with lots of chaos, a male puppy may be more likely to be content. Sex is just one factor in a puppy's personality.
In general, choosing the other gender is wisest. So if you already have a male dog, choose a female, and vice-versa. Select a younger dog (although, as stated above, not too young), as dogs close in age are more likely to have disagreements. Bringing in a dog older than your resident dog can create tension.