We made the move from 1 dog to 2 with the addition of Snorri-dog to Kali. That all went swimmingly, but I have to consider that, although different ages, they were half-brothers (which may have made things easier??). The arrival of Thorgeir as Snorri's successor has been different, as the age gap is so much bigger (Kali was 4 when Snorri came, he is 15 at the arrival of Thorgeir).

We found that the original dog assisted with training junior (Kali did all Snorri's house-training, for example), and generally helped the newcomer to learn the ropes, as it were.

Snorri

Its a tough one Dani.
I have wondered the same thing about having another with Missy.
I always come back to Missy was here first, she is now settled and happy and given she had such a time before us, would I possibly want to unsettle her again? My first responsibility is her.

You have to think of Luca and Bruno too. Would that dynamic be upset by a new dog? And if Bruno is jealous of you fussing another - how will he feel when that other is living with you?

If you already had a home in mind for her, I think - if it was me - I would do the selfless thing and give her to the new home - if they are good enough.
As I say, tough call though.

Just cos Bruno doesnt get on with other dogs generally does not neccessary mean he wouldnt live with another dog easily and happily!
When we rescued Looby she was pretty bad with other dogs (mainly cos she had never been socialised) but she and H got on straight away and have never looked back.
Could the lady come to your house with the dog...possibly meet a short walk away from the house then go in together. I have found this better than taking both dogs to a place where they may be on edge ie. a rescue.

As for walking two its something that feels odd at first but after a week or so you wonder what you were worried about. As for kids and dogs y7ou just have more to keep your eye on but it can be done happily and safely for all involved if you plan ahead for walks and get them all organised, lol

Good luck x

Dogs behaviour does tend to rub off on one another. So if you have one that barks aggressively towards other dogs, there is a good chance the other will mimic the behaviour and act in the same way. I was walking with a friend and her dog reacted towards another dog barking quite aggressively through a fence. After her dog reacted, my insanely friendly and docile Lab joined in; something he NEVER does if I walk him alone. So, I think that is something to bear in mind with your DA dog.

As for having more than one dog, I won't lie to you; it is hard work. I went from one dog to three recently. I am lucky that both my bitches are VERY easy. Demanding, time consuming and energetic certainly, but overall easy dogs. However, I am in a lucky position in the fact that I can devote an awful lot of time to them AND we have a busy household and outside help if need be.

I think it is definitely a decision only you can make.

aarrrgghhh

its just making it harder !!

I really appreciate all the responses.

This is another staffie we are talking about, am sure that Luca would love another dog - he adores them, But Pat raises a good point as to whether Bruno would feel jealous if their was another dog sharing our home.

I do have the ability to meet up and let the dogs meet with the current owner and to see how they got on with the basis that I could do an overnight stay etc or weekend with her to see how it all works.

From the point of view of having 2, I dont necessarily think the day to day stuff would be that much worse as they both need walked etc. Although i do worry that the second dog would pick up bad habits from bruno.....

I am swaying towards letting them meet as at least then I will know for sure and not wonder./.....

She was due to go on the website tonight and I know as soon as she does we will get loads of interest as she is absolutely gorgeous ! But she ticks all the boxes of my new dog wishlist should I ever have considered it so perhaps its the time to at least try....


oohh decisions......

I haven't read all the replies so sorry if anyone has said the same!

I would let Bruno make the first inital decision. He may instantly dislike her and then that will be that. But, he may also be totally tolerant of her in which case I think if you've fallen in love and no doubt you can give her a great home, then to have more meetings and let her stay a couple of days with you to see how it goes would be the way I'd go.

Saying that, i have no expeience (yet.......) of 2 or more dogs, but I bet you'll adapt even if initially it's a bit of a muddle.

Good luck what ever you decide.

Oh, oh...she's swaying!!! LOL

There's no harm letting them meet Dani - that in itself could be the decider depending on how they get on

I can understand your reservations, especially as you don't want the gorgeous Bruno passing on his bad habits, otherwise you'll have double trouble (my neighbour ended up having this problem with her terriers - she got one to stop the other barking with being lonely and now they both bark )

It's a lot to consider, especially as you may have another baby. Two dogs, two babies - TBH, it wouldn't be for me. Not only for the fact of keeping an eye on them all, walking with a pram, training etc - but the extra cost involved. BUT, every person is different and if it's what you really want, you will make it work I'm sure

If you don't let them meet you will always wonder. If you let the meet you will at least know one way or the other as if they get on it then becomes a realistic proposition...so you will have to make a decision. At this stage you only have what ifs..but once they meet you will have something firm to base it all on.
I think you have to let them meet..go along with your eyes wide open, perhaps take someone who is moreable to be objective about it with you....and then you can take it from there. It could be that if they get on you will consider the whole package more and decide you are happy with one dog....or you may welcome her into your home...or they may hate each other. Let them meet...take it from there

my dog aggressive BC loved the puppy! (millie)

and then there were 3.... pain sometimes....

now we have 2
2 is a lovely number....

im helpful arnt i?

Thanks AM - yes definetly wouldnt want to end up with two maniac dogs !!!
Its the whole timing thing, this wee girl came into rescue 2 yrs ago when i was pregnant and I remember ythinking IF ONLY !!!!! so maybe its fate and I should at least try it to let them meet....




Thanks A - exactly if I dont let them meet I will always wonder...

My worry is now that if i let them meet and they get on I have all the other issues to think about...

I think the main thing is if we have another baby, would two dogs and two kids be too much..... But thats all what if's isnt it !!!

oh decisions, I think i will call and let them meet, I just spoke to my Mum about it and she didnt think it completely ridiculous and she is normally the one that makes me think twice as always looks at the negative - she must have seriously warmed to dogs if I tell her I am thinking of another and she doesnt say dont be daft !! LOL