Most experts agree that, as a rule, male and female dogs get along better than two females or two males.
For the happiest dogs and the safest household, opposite sex dogs almost always do best together. Many same-sex combinations of dogs will fight, sometimes to the death. Those who work out a dominance order may not fare much better.
Gender: While there is no set rule that a female dog will be a better friend for a male dog, if you have never had two dogs at the same time it is generally easier and often safer to have dogs of the opposite sex. Same-sex combinations can be tricky to manage as dogs work out their dominance or pack order.
Experts recommend adopting a dog of the opposite sex, but two dogs of the same gender can get along. It depends on each dog's personality and level of dominance. If you decide to go ahead and get a dog of the same gender, some experts suggest bringing in a much younger dog than your current one.
Male dogs are usually more affectionate than females, and some positively crave human attention. You'll find it's always you who brings the cuddling and fussing to an end – he could happily go on like this all day!
Some of the things to consider are gender, size, and age. Most experts agree that, as a rule, male and female dogs get along better than two females or two males.
Female dogs tend to be easier to housebreak, easier to train, and more connected with their owners—but in certain circumstances they can be more demanding of attention. Aggression can be a problem in any dog of any breed, however it is usually more apparent in non-neutered males.
Having two dogs can feel like a lot of work sometimes, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. From easier training to better mental and emotional health (for you and your dogs!), to saving the lives of animals, there are so many solid reasons to adopt a second dog today.
Dogs are social animals and usually happier around other dogs, but a second dog will never be a substitute for inattentive, absent or too busy owners.
In some cases, two dogs of the same sex may get along fine, but some experts feel it is best to choose a new pup of the opposite sex. Same sex dogs may become rivals, and there is a greater chance of competition among the two. If you want to play it safe, team your female dog with a male counterpart and vice versa.
Two female dogs could act exactly like their male counterparts. As young pups, these two new female puppies may be friendly and pal around as you'd expect. But when they get a little older, they could vie for dominance.
Dogs are inherently social animals that live well together in groups, but that does not mean that all dogs get along. Most dogs will welcome a new sibling, but it is not always smooth sailing. The furry family member you have now will face many changes when a new dog enters the picture and may feel a bit displaced.
Many breeders recommend that your first dog be at least one-to-two-years old before you add a second to the family. If you have an old dog, he may not be physically able to play with or tolerate a pup.
Allocate the Time and Resources for Another Pup
You also have to keep in mind that you'll need to invest extra for essential gear — collars, leashes and crates, to name a just a few items — as well as unexpected vet visits, potential boarding and possible pet sitters and dog walkers.
According to petMD, female dogs also tend to reach maturity faster than males, which may mean that a female dog is more mature than a male dog of the same age and might be easier to train as a result. Nicole Ellis notes there are very few differences between the sexes when dogs are young.
And “because dogs are highly social creatures,” Dr. Borns-Weil says, in most cases, “getting another dog is the right thing to do. Dogs in isolation are not happy.” Even if you are home with your dog much of the day, a second dog in the family might very well be the right choice.
It can take up to one month for an old dog and new dog to really settle in and accept each other's position in the pack. If you want a second dog, you need to be ready to commit to this process and not panic.
In dogdom, there's a turn of phrase called, "Second Dog Syndrome". This describes the process of adding another dog to the home quite well, but not necessarily in a positive light. As humans, we are bound to forget all of the time and effort it takes to raise a puppy right.
Fights between female canines over breeding rights and rank can turn very damaging for the two parties leaving them severely injured. You trying to stop a clash that's underway will only leave you with a bite or two from the raging canines.
Can 2 Male Un-neutered Males Live Together? The short answer is yes, 2 intact male dogs can live together when they have a responsible owner. However, depending on each of their personalities, they may or may not live in harmony together.
Introduction of a New Pet
Bringing home a new puppy or another adult dog can trigger jealousy in your dog, and they may show signs of aggression toward the new addition. Your dog might growl at the new dog, guard your lap, or try to get in between you and your new furry family member.
Two dogs can share toys, beds, grooming products, water bowls, larger bags of food, and treats. Safer for you and your furry family members. Two dogs protecting the home are better than one. Also, when you have two pups, they will take care of each other.
These fights occur most often between dogs of near equal ability and motivation and often, but not always, dogs of the same sex, and seem to be most severe between female dogs.