i want to know how can i make sure they both get along since they're both females and the one i have has never played or spent more then 5 minutes with another dog, how can i train them to walk together on the same time (with a leash for 2 dogs), and if someone can telll me how diferent it is to raise two dogs....and if i'm going to have problems training the new one if i get her (she is an adult).... serious answers please since i may adopt the new dog by next week..
2007-01-22 05:16:45 · 7 answers · asked by a lady 5 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Congrats on adopting! Dogs are pack animals and most love having another of their species around. Like others have said, bring your dog with you to the adoption center so they can meet on neutral ground.
When you get home, make sure you give your first dog extra attention. Feed her first to help her establish dominance. Mostly they'll work it out themselves. Dog #1 will establish her rules and get the other dog to follow them.
There are what're called "dual dog" attachments for your leash, basically an extension cord. Check out this article I wrote about picking the right leash for your dogs...
2007-01-22 09:29:48 · answer #1 · answered by tlperl 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
First you need to determine if your dog is dog aggressive or not. Introduce the other dog in a controled area. I do not recommend the shelter because there is a lot of noise and stress.
Have lots of toys available for both dogs and another adult with you, perferable someone from the shelter.
It's very different having 2 dogs as opposed to 1. It's like having another kid. It's a good thing though, they will keep each other company, play together, get into trouble together and snuggle with each other etc. It's important to remain the pack leader so I suggest some training classes!
I don't recommend a dog leash that walks two dogs. 2 seperate leashes because you don't want your dogs walking in front of you. That's where the alpha dog walks. Your dogs should walk at your side or slightly behind you.
My Golden Retriever walks on my left and my English Setter walks on my right in heel position.
To teach them this you need to walk the dogs one at a time. I suggest a prong collar. Choke chains are very hazardous - they can collapse the treachea and esphaphagus. The prong collar looks like a midievel torture devise yes - but is the most humane way to train a dog. There is not consistant pressure on the neck, only for correction.
Anyway-take your dog for a walk, when she/he starts pulling you turn in the opposite direction and give a sharp tug to catch thier attention. The leash should be loose. When they start pulling repeat.
It took my girl 2 training sessions to nail this. I can walk both at the same time by my sides without any problem of pulling or lagging.
Make sure to watch them when they eat. Don't allow them to eat out of each other's food bowl. It will temper the aggression if any and it's a sign of respect for each other.
I always recommend getting 2 dogs when purchasing or adopting.
Talk to your local trainer or have a trainer come to your home for further assistance. That is very important (Training!!)
Good Luck
2007-01-22 05:35:14 · answer #2 · answered by sillybuttmunky 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
When you go down to visit the potential adoptee, bring your pooch along and see how they socialize. I had a 15 year old dog and we introduced a two year old and after about five minutes of sniffing and snarling they became the best of friends. As for leash training - it depends on the dogs. Work with the new dog first to get her used to being on a leash in general, making sure that she doesn't pull you and drag you everywhere. Then attach your other dog too, walking them both for short periods at a time to get them used to walking side by side.
2007-01-22 05:22:46 · answer #3 · answered by dolce 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Great first answer by Angela...
I volunteer at my local shelter, and she's right -- you can bring your dog to see how well he gets along with another pup. I would go first without your dog, pick out a pup and talk to one of the counselors at the shelter. They don't want to place dogs in homes that are not appropriate because they'll just end up back in the shelter if it doesn't work out. They'll help you make sure the pup you choose gets along with your dog. Good luck!
2007-01-22 05:28:15 · answer #4 · answered by doggiemom 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
easy, and this is very highly recommended, take your dog with you to see if they are compatible (get along well) before you bring the one from the animal shelter home. I would not recommend getting her however if she and your current dog try to attack each other. Good luck
2007-01-22 06:30:27 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
well it sometimes depends on the bred of the dog and if that dog LIKES to be around other dogs. i would say go for it because there re to many animals without homes. it would do it good.
2007-01-22 05:27:04 · answer #6 · answered by Morgan 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The golden retriever web sites have double dog leases were it splits with out getting tangled
2007-01-22 06:10:52 · answer #7 · answered by ---- 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋