What do you think?

[Iggette]

I know there are some experienced dog people here so thought I would ask some advice!!

My search for a new friend seems difficult, and what makes it difficult is my 11 yr old female Shepard she is very dominate.

I have been told by some that it would be best to get a submissive male like Bandit was, as two females rarely get along!

Is this nonsence or true if the new dog was more of a puppy or like 1-2 years would there be a difference? Some say male or female a puppy will learn that Ursa is the alfa?

Im a little confused and want to make the right choice, Can you help me out here?

[Dee_petlover]

I was just wondering why you wanted another dog, given your concerns over how well your current dog will get along with it.

I read that the average lifespan of a German shepherd is approx.12 years, so your dog would be quite old. Perhaps getting another dog at this point isn't the best idea given your concerns.

[mona_b]

Yes Dee,the average life span is 12 years old.

BUT,they can live to be 15,if not older.

My previous GSD was 13 and I had to put him down.If it wasn't for his hips,he would have lived longer.He was quite healthy and still had puppy in him.

Not sure if you have read Iggette's previous posts.But she just lost her beloved Bandit.

As for suggestions Iggette,I wish I can help you.But what I do know is,at shelters,like our SPCA here they want you to bring in the dog you have to see how another would interact with it.

I'm sure LR,Luba and Carina with the rest of the gang can help you.

[Dee_petlover]

Oh I'm so sorry to hear about your dog bandit!

I didn't read your other posts, so I didn't know. My deepest sympathies.

I guess than that your GSD has lived with another dog before so its just a matter of getting the right match. like mona said I'm sure there will be some good ideas forthcoming!

[Lucky Rescue]

Yes, if you want to get another dog, a submissive young male would be best.

I don't know your dog, but many older dogs don't care for annoying young puppies, so you might want to consider a young adult.

You should take your dog to meet whichever dog you are interested in, to see how they get along in neutral territory.

[Iggette]

Dee .........thats ok you didn't know........and thank you !!
Ursa does have sore hips, she has her good days and bad ones. But I think she yearns for the water, we take her swimming alot as it is great excersise and not so hard on her joints . She has been a little down since Bandits departure and almost depressed I think, if thats possible. I'm not sure how much longer she will have with us I am making an appt. for the vet to get his advice on her condition (hips), Ursa is actually my boyfriends dog so it will be his decision.

Lucky.... I believe you are right I don't think Ursa would like the puppy idea

Thanks for your input it is much appreciated

[LavenderRott]

A submissive male would probably be your best bet. Two dominant dogs will fight, less often if they are of the opposite sex. Bitches tend to fight until one is seriously injured or worse.

[mona_b]

Iggette,

I wish they carried this stuff here...It's from Australia.


http://www.sashasblend.com.au/


Just click on the black circles.