Dogster Answers
› Breeds
What is the best dog to be paired with a four year old male german shepherd after the passing of his companion?
I know a family who recently lost a female german shepherd due to old age. Left behind is a four year old male german shepherd who had a mother/son relaltionship with the female. While he is beginning to recover from the loss, his family is concerned that he is lonely and would like to get him a companion in the near future.
The family is looking for a dog that is smaller than a german shepherd that will help him to stay active. But they don't want a high maintence dog or one that will bark too much or bounce off of the wall. Just one that will be a great match and a new pal to their current dog.
How long should they wait before getting him another companion? What breed would be best to pair him with? And should the new dog be a male or female?
Asked by
Guest 009216
on Jun 24th 2008
Tagged
in Breeds
Status
- Cast your vote for which answer you think is best!
Answers
Well, I have a German Shepherd and all sorts of dogs. Anatolian Shepherds might be good Koda gets along fine with Lupo (the German Shepherd) and so does my Aussie, Jack. and Nala my Pit is good!
Koda
answered on 6/24/08.
Helpful? 
/
0
We got a mutt as a companion for our male GSD. I think the breed is less important than how they get along. The two of ours get along great. When we were looking, we looked specifically for a female (less possibility of issues we thought - it depends on your dog) and one that was more submissive. Our GSD is the dominant one of the two - but she gets away with a lot of 'stuff' just because they have a great relationship.
How long they wait depends on when they are ready also - and when the right dog comes along. Maybe look at rescues or shelters. There are lots of great dogs that need homes.
Beau
answered on 6/24/08.
Helpful? /
0
A medium sized female from a kill shelter. Then they are helping both animals. Just go look - the eyes will tell you which one is the right one to take home.
Lily
answered on 6/24/08.
Helpful? /
0
Any medium to large breed really. If you get a puppy it will work with any breed provided your dog is good with puppies. If you're dog is good with all dogs, then something that will be a good running and playing companion similar in size. I have a german shorthair and a shepherd and they are like Seabiscuit and War Admiral all over again.
Kayak
answered on 1/7/09.
Helpful? /
0
Just a tip: make sure he (the male GSD) wants and is ready for a new companion. Another dog is a big move not just for the family, but for your dog as well! Trying to pick a new friend for him may just end up in him becoming stressed and unhappy-so make sure he approves and knows he is not being replaced! Otherwise almost every dog I have ever met has gotten along with puppies (as long as theyre not overly rambunctious! Maybe a greyhound? They are friendly and not hyper!
Tyson Leonardo
answered on 1/23/09.
Helpful? /
0