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When should we get a companion for our 10 yr old Shihtzu? We just lost his sister 3 weeks ago. Same breed? Bigger? Age?
We just lost Bailey to IMHA. Buster has been with his sister since they were born and we purchased them together at 6 weeks old. We think he's lonely and are ready to get him a companion. Do we buy another Shihtzu? Same age or younger/older? He's been around a cocker spaniel and an American bull dog, but he goes upstairs and is anti-social. He's very protective of his home as well. However, a neighbor just bought a lab puppy and Buster's excitement floored us. He played with the puppy and his tail was up and he was happy. Do we take our cue from Buster? Do we buy a puppy? We're so stressed over this and wonder...what if it doesn't work out?
Asked by
Guest 801308
on Jan 28th 2009
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in Socialization
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I'm so very sorry to hear of Baily's passing.
Buster is likely grieving just as much as you are, right now. Dogs really don't do well when their 'pack mates' pass away and you're very right to think he's lonely and confused and upset.
Having said that, I personally think it would be a mistake to do anything this soon. He's still adjusting to the new situation of being the only dog in the house and if he's a bit anti-social there is a good chance it WILL be a struggle, even if just at first, if you bring a new dog into "his" home. Why put him (and yourselves) through that when you can set up play dates with your neighbor's puppy?
I think that's a great soution to his loneliness without shaking up his world, or yours and helps your neighbor's puppy with socialization at the same time! Everyone wins!
Sometimes, I tend to think the best thing you can do in a situation like this is let the dog live out the rest of his life without added stress and confusion.
Jack
answered on 1/29/09.
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If I were you, I'd look at getting a puppy or young rescue dog that is known to be good with other dogs. They probably won't play together the same way buster and his sister did, but I find that bringing a puppy into a home with an older dog often gives the puppy a chance to pick up some of the behavioural cues of the older dog which could be nice.
As to when you do this, it's up to you. Just don't try to replace the dog you lost, because that can't be done. If you are ready for a new family member then you can start to think about taking the plunge.
Tesla
answered on 1/29/09.
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So sorry for you.
Get another dog when YOU want another, if you get a puppy as a companion for your older dog, you may not be as committed to keeping the new dog if problems arise.
If he's anti-social with other dogs then thats an obvious cue that he would not be happy with another dog.
If he acts ok with other dogs, and you decide you want another, try ones of different ages to see which ones he gets along better with. Try going to a shelter to check out different dogs to see if the two get along.
Zackintosh CJ
answered on 1/30/09.
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