We have a beautiful rescue dog Phoebe, she's been a member of our family for 4 years now (she's 7). She had a traumatic time before we got her, with several homes and some unpleasant owners but she's settled now, well behaved (within reason) and totally devoted to the whole family. A colleague has recently rescued a puppy but he's unable to care for it long term, and I am tempted to offer the pup a home with us. However, would it upset my lovely Phoebe? Or would it be companionship for her? Prior to Phoebe, we have never had a dog. Any advice would be more than welcome.Thank you.
Rescue dog + new puppy?
It is a difficult one. Dogs like humans have their likes and dislikes. Some get on well and some hate each other.
How is she around other dogs? I usually go by that kind of relationship.
How is she around other dogs? I usually go by that kind of relationship.
It's a bit like asking how long a piece of string really, we have introduced dogs several times most have loved each other two tolerated each other and two went to all out war. Oddly it was the dogs who loved other dogs who hated each other !
Is there any chance you could introduce them to each other on neutral ground. That way neither is feeling territorial or threatened and you can at least see if they ignore each other, play or show dislike. if all went well then try it a couple of times before committing to taking the younger dog.
It really is an individual choice, personally me and my OH have always prefered keeping two as we feel they have a companion when we need to pop out or just to share checking out smells on walks, or having a rough and tumble.
We originally (20 years ago) had two sisters who adored each other, next, after losing one we had a pup who ended up being mothered by the older dog. Next we had that grown pup (aged 8) and a year old rescue, (treated very badly) they were okay with each other but did not feel the need to cosy up together. Now we have that rescue (aged 2) and our new pup again. The older one will always be a bit reserved I think but she definately likes the new pup and they are closer already as they play constantly together. Theirs will be a close bond, although the pup who is now 5 months is already the boss! I do think the fact that we had a puppy helped as the older one with a history did not feel threatened by a younger dog.
So as you can see it is a gamble. But it definately helps if they initially meet on neutral ground. If you did decide to take on another dog then you want to give them the best start together to lead on to a good relationship between them.
Good luck whatever you decide.
It really is an individual choice, personally me and my OH have always prefered keeping two as we feel they have a companion when we need to pop out or just to share checking out smells on walks, or having a rough and tumble.
We originally (20 years ago) had two sisters who adored each other, next, after losing one we had a pup who ended up being mothered by the older dog. Next we had that grown pup (aged 8) and a year old rescue, (treated very badly) they were okay with each other but did not feel the need to cosy up together. Now we have that rescue (aged 2) and our new pup again. The older one will always be a bit reserved I think but she definately likes the new pup and they are closer already as they play constantly together. Theirs will be a close bond, although the pup who is now 5 months is already the boss! I do think the fact that we had a puppy helped as the older one with a history did not feel threatened by a younger dog.
So as you can see it is a gamble. But it definately helps if they initially meet on neutral ground. If you did decide to take on another dog then you want to give them the best start together to lead on to a good relationship between them.
Good luck whatever you decide.
I agree, It's like asking if two particular people are going to get on.
It depends how sociable they both are individually, and how well, or not, their separate personaliities go together, remembering sometimes opposites attract but sometimes it helps to have outlooks that match!
It depends how sociable they both are individually, and how well, or not, their separate personaliities go together, remembering sometimes opposites attract but sometimes it helps to have outlooks that match!
I also agree with the others. Provided the puppy's old enough to go out it would be a good idea to introduce them on on a walk to see how they get on before you decide. if it goes ok, then perhaps try bringing the puppy home with you for a while to test the waters. Often dogs react very differently to each other on neutral territory as opposed to their "home ground" so it would be best to see how it goes before you make your decision.
I've been in your situation and rescued a younger dog whilst already owning one or two older dogs (always Bassets) and have never had any problem, especially when the older dogs have been female! As Bassets are pack dogs, they love company of other dogs and people so it's not been a problem.
I think female dogs are generally more readily accepting of a younger dog, especially a puppy because of their maternal instincts and I would do what others have said and ask the owner to bring puppy to meet Phoebe on neutral territory, which could be an area of land close to your house and if they get on well, then move them into your garden for a play together, then see how Phoebe reacts to pup going into your house, either that day or the next if you prefer to take things steadily.
I think you may well find that Phoebe would enjoy having a new companion, especially if you have to go out for a couple of hours and she would have a friend to keep her company!
Good luck and I hope things work out well for you.
I think female dogs are generally more readily accepting of a younger dog, especially a puppy because of their maternal instincts and I would do what others have said and ask the owner to bring puppy to meet Phoebe on neutral territory, which could be an area of land close to your house and if they get on well, then move them into your garden for a play together, then see how Phoebe reacts to pup going into your house, either that day or the next if you prefer to take things steadily.
I think you may well find that Phoebe would enjoy having a new companion, especially if you have to go out for a couple of hours and she would have a friend to keep her company!
Good luck and I hope things work out well for you.
