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Location: East Yorkshire
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 80
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A future companion - right timing?
Hi all
There are so many experienced dog owners here, and I know some of you work with rescue dogs too so hopefully you will be able to give me some advice on the right route to go.
I eventually want a companion for Jessie (SBT currently just 17 weeks old). Although I've been around dogs practically all of my life (my aunt usually had 4 or 5 dogs, most GSD's, so I grew up with them), I've never actually kept more than one myself. Now I know I'm probably jumping the gun a little here, but I would like to plan for a possible companion for Jessie now. I'm also of course prepared for the fact that she may not be suited to sharing with another pooch (I hope not, but it's a possibility!).
I'm not discounting another puppy, but ideally would like to take on an adult (rescue) dog. Would it be best to introduce an adult dog while Jessie is still quite young, or better to wait until she's a little more mature? If so, at roughly what age would you advise? Or if you think getting another puppy would be better, how old should Jessie be before I consider bringing in a new addition?
Also, do you have any advice on what breed would be best paired with a Staffie? I know a lot depends on individual dogs rather than breed per se, but obviously Staffie's are quite strong dogs. I'd hate it if somewhere down the line I got a dog and Jessie squashed it or something.
I don't have a particular breed in mind, but a small - medium dog would be best I think. I've been thinking of a JRT but I'm nowhere near having my heart set on any particular breed. I also have 3 cats, so need to consider them too.
Not saying I want to go out and get another dog next week, I'm just contemplating the pro's and con's at the moment. Well, the sensible side of me tells me that this will be many months away yet, looking through the rescue centre websites tells me I want to take home 50 tomorrow!
But the sensible side will win, I won't take any gambles with any of my animals.
Any input will be gratefully received.