How to Get a Companion Dog for an Existing Dog

You're a pet owner and you've decided to get another dog---good for you. Getting a second dog can help provide companionship for your first dog and also provide further enjoyment for you, the pet owner. Plus, if you adopt a dog from the shelter, you can feel good about saving a life.
But adding a new dog is daunting, especially if you've never owned two dogs before. Two dogs can be more than twice the headache, because they often cause exponential mischief together. You also need to decide if your current dog is ready for a friend. Some dogs don't do well with other dogs and are better off alone. If your dog is antisocial, don't try to force another dog on it.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Computer with web access
• Dog collars, leashes for each dog
• Treats
• Second person to handle new dog

1. Decide on the sex, age, size and breed of dog. Although not always true, most dogs tolerate the opposite sex better. Age-wise, many dogs respond to dogs the same age, although senior dogs are sometimes revitalized with a puppy. Breed is pretty much up to you, but try to find a breed or mixed breed with easygoing tendencies. The American Kennel Club website (AKC.org) lists the breeds and descriptions.
   Try to find a same-size playmate for your dog; otherwise, the size disparity could cause an injury when they're playing or roughhousing.

2. Choose a dog with a similar personality and activity level. Most dogs, like many humans, like the same activity level. A laid-back dog will usually prefer a mellow companion; an active pup needs an active pal for play.

3. Have a veterinarian spay or neuter your dog (and your prospective dog). This will help curb dominance and sexual aggression. It will also prevent unwanted litters of puppies.

4. Choose a neutral place to introduce your dogs. Most people find a park the ideal neutral ground. Have a friend or family member walk the new dog on a leash toward you and your dog as you walk your current dog on leash. Let them greet and meet each other.

5. Offer treats to distract and reward the dogs. If there is any growling or aggressive behavior, try getting your dog's attention with a treat while the other person gets the other dog's attention in the same manner. When you get your dog's attention, give it the treat and then offer another before asking for a sit. (The other person needs to do the same thing).
   Try walking by the other dog again, having your dogs focus on the treat the walker holds. Once there is no growling or no interest in the other dog, try introducing them again. Repeat as necessary.

6. Walk your dogs home together if they're getting along. If they aren't, continue to work with them by giving them treats and distracting them.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have difficulty introducing the dogs, be sure to contact a pet behaviorist or trainer who uses positive methods to help you with your dogs' transition.
• If your dogs aren't getting along during the introduction, try again later, keeping them separated in different parts of the house and continuing to introduce them on neutral ground and on leashes.
• Avoid choosing aggressive dogs or dogs that are known to do poorly with other dogs.
• Never get between dogs in a fight---you may get bit.

References

• Bring Me Home: Dogs Make Great Pets, Margaret H. Bonham, 2005.
• The Complete Guide to Mutts, Margaret H. Bonham, 2004.
• American Kennel Club