Hi we have 2 dogs now. Both are 3 years old. Our boxer is a female and the other is a Bichon Frise who is male. We found a very sad and lonely 4 year old male who was surrendered at our local shelter. No wiggle, no kisses, head hung low, looked very broken and sad. He has been there since September. Our heart says to help him. What are your thoughts of bringing in a third dog who is male? He looked to be a farm dog and has been around alot of animals with no problems. The paper work did say protective of his owner, but VERY friendly. He is so skinny. So are mine but his body doesn't match his head. I am looking for some advice about the males getting along. I won't endanger our Bichon.
adding a new dog
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Maybe you could arrange to have them meet and see how it goes?
Good luck to you.
Good luck to you.
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8,155 Posts
I would see if you could foster him, take him for a trial run for maybe a week to see how he gets along with you and your other dogs. Adding a dog can be tough but if done the correct way, not only are you saving a life, but getting another best friend.
I would take the week, see how it goes. You will have to give attention to all equally, and not favor the new guy even tho he needs it or your others may get jealous. I think its worth a shot. Not too many people can take on another addition, let alone a dog in need. Since the initial meeting went well, why not trying for a little longer???
I would take the week, see how it goes. You will have to give attention to all equally, and not favor the new guy even tho he needs it or your others may get jealous. I think its worth a shot. Not too many people can take on another addition, let alone a dog in need. Since the initial meeting went well, why not trying for a little longer???
If I were going to bring another male into our home I wouldn't worry as much as I would if I were to bring another female into the home. If you are getting him from a rescue he should be fixed before adoption so that will help a lot in the dominance issues. Is your other dog a dominant male? or fairly submissive?
One thing for sure--You need to be the pack leader and they are the followers.
Scott
One thing for sure--You need to be the pack leader and they are the followers.
Scott
This is our local humane society. They said its a nonrefundable $100 donation. You can return the dog but all shelters are struggling so I can see not returning the cash. Our Bichon is definately the dominate of the two dogs. Haley is a very tolerant good girl. She is only 42 lbs a real peanut and he is 14 lbs and holds his own. There is one water bowl they share and their dishes touch. Te eat their own but the Bichon will occasionally growl if she is eating out of her dish.
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That's a tough one, your Bichon sounds like he's Alpha, so you would want to know that this other dog isn't, that could create some issues. I do agree that GENERALLY 2 males get along better than 2 females. I assume your Bichon is neutered? I would also have suggested a trial run of a week, but it sounds like that may not be an option....The first meeting sounded like it went well, but it would be a true test to see how everyone acted in your house, where your dogs are are on their own turf.
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How about maybe if you know a professional trainer that can accompany you with your dogs to have another meet up with the boxer. Just so that trainer can get the vibes of how the dog will act in your environment.
G
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·when we introduced bo into the house there were some squabbles between bo and jetta...bo establishing dominance and a place...they are fine now...be prepared to play referee...there most likely will be some growling and such...but if they didn't fight on contact it is a good sign
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