Are two better than one?

Question

I have a Maltese. I love him dearly. He is wonderful. The question is, his mom and dad have just produced their last litter together. Mommy is going to be spayed. I am thinking about buying one of his brothers. Is it a good idea or not?

For those of you that have more than one dog, would you do it again? I am at home every day, I don't work. They are great little dogs.

My male is nine months old. It is funny because his best friend is a male Poodle/Apso mix. They are both neutered.
A female Poodle lives next door and they hate each other. I always thought you should have a male and female and not two of the same sex. But I guess it works.

Answer 1

I've owned dogs my whole life and my husband was a breeder many years ago.
From experience I can tell you that the best way to choose a dog for a companion for yours is to let your dog pick the pup.
It does'nt matter if they have the same parents or not.Some people hate each other on sight and it's the same for dogs.Just because you think it's cute and cuddly your dog may not and it's going to have to be the one who shares the attention the play-time and the toys and favorite napping spots not you.
Take your dog along when it's time to pick out a playmate.Have the breeder put the pups in an area that's away from mom and if your dogs overwhelmed by all the pups then remove all but a couple you may be interested in regardless of sex.Then put your dog in with the pups.He'll soon favor one over the other and that's the one you need to bring home.
Trust me on this one.You'll have no jealousy issues at all.
I presently own 2 male german shepherds and while I put alot of time into training the first,I've put hardly any into training the second cos the first dogs done it all from housebreaking to teaching him when it's permissible to show aggression and when it's not.He evan forced the pup to walk slightly behind me on trails at the park as tho he were leashed but he's not while the other takes the lead.If the younger one falls behind he runs him back.Also if the younger one gets too far away he waits until I call him then runs to make sure he gets back asap.
Not one thing has been chewed that is'nt supposed to be since the day we brought the second dog home.Our only problem is that they are inseperable.They can't be out of each others sight without them both pouting or acting anxious.

Answer 2

Remember that dogs are pack animals, they are not designed to be alone. It's great you don't work and are home with the one all day, but it would be great for him to have a friend when you go to the store or whatever.

I have two labs, we had a grown female for a couple years before getting the male puppy. At first she really hated him, then came to tolerate him, and now continues to tolerate plus plays a little with him (we got her from the pound as a grown dog and she had/has serious psychological issues). He has always adored her even though she has NEVER reciprocated his affection. They are, however, a pack, and each is very upset when the other leaves without them.

As much as I love both dogs, if I had to do it over, I definitely would've gotten the second dog, but honestly would've waiting before getting either one. They are large, super emotionally needy, and we live in a TINY home. I get overwelmed with them a lot of the time.

I say have two or more dogs, or none at all.

Answer 3

Are you sure you want to bring in another male? It may not pose too much of a problem since brother will be a puppy, but a female might make a better fit. But it's totally up to you. And I think two dogs is an excellent idea:) As long as you have the time and money, go for it!

Answer 4

I bought two Toy Fox Terriers from the same litter and never regretted it. This is the first time I've had more than one dog at a time and will never have just one again. I adopted a Yorki-Chihuahua and the three of them get along great. They play and wash each others ears. They keep each other company when I am out or busy.

I'd go for it!!

Answer 5

I have 3 dogs (an older labX female and 2 Shih-tzus) My labX hated being alone when we had to go anywhere so we bought the male Shih-tzu to keep her company. She loves playing with him but gets tired way before he does so we bought a little female Shih-tzu to keep him company (everyone who owns a Shih-tzu knows they are just like potato chips, you can't have just one.........hehehe). Now all 3 dogs love playing together and the 2 little ones have each other to play with when my lab gets tired.

My male Shih-tzu was 1 1/2 when we got the female puppy and it took him about 5 - 7 days before he would play or wanted anything to do with her. Now they are the best of friends and are always together. So, if you have the time and money to take care of more than 1, I'd say go for it and you won't regret it. Little dogs are so much fun, and my 2 are so entertaining to watch when they play.

Answer 6

depending on your older dogs age and how possessive he is , is what you have to take into consideration. sometimes they accept a new dog, sometimes not. having two dogs is fun to watch and one keeps the other one company. since you are home, its easier to keep an eye on them. I have a seven year old chihuahua male and when I got my female two years ago, he was not very happy, so unhappy at first, those first few months that he would actually attack her occasionally if I didnt watch their every move. It was so difficult that I thought about giving the new puppy away. I stuck it out and eventually got better. now, after two years they are the best of friends, BUT.... it changed his disposition, he isnt as affectionate anymore. He is jealous sometimes. But they play alot together and keep each other company when I work. Would I do it again? probably yes....

Answer 7

If you feel as if you can deal with having two dogs and you are financially stable enough to care for two dogs, then by all means, go for it.

Depending on what age your dog is now, he may not take a liking to his 'future' brother very well.

I do not have any dogs at the moment, but am looking into getting a Labrador Retriever. I would buy two but the cost of two, well-bred Labs would be too costly for me at the moment.

I wish you best of luck with your new puppy, if you decide to get it :-)

Answer 8

I have a maltese too! I would say either way they are great dogs if you want another one I would go for it I kno a lady with 4 and they are sooo cute all together... its just another baby to love... Maltese arnt that picky of dogs my Lacy is my princess baby lol Malteses are the best!

Answer 9

I have 3 dogs and I don't find it any harder than just one. I doubt I will ever be a one dog owner! My dogs enjoy having each others company when we have to step out, and they also have play mates.

Answer 10

Absolutely. It is always good for them to have a playmate. Keeps them from getting lonely when you are not home. The older one will help housebreak the young one too! Good luck!