Expert: Marie Peppers / The Boston Terrier Lady - 9/20/2009

Question
Hi.  I currently have 2 boston terriers.  The male Bob is 8.  Hw was rescued from a puppy mill as a puppy.  He has serious health problems.  (Has to wear a diaper most of the time due to spinal bifida, allergy shots each month due to allergies to a variety of bees, just had an eye removed, and only has 10% vision in the remaining eye.) (But he is the king of the house.)

The female Lucy, is 2.  She is a doll and helps Bob find his toys. But being young, she is alot more active then Bob.  I want to get a 3rd Boston to round out our family.  Bob has Lucy, but Lucy also needs a play mate.

We we going to get another female, so that Bob would not loose the feeling of "being the man". (He has lost so much already with his sight failing.) However, we were told that 2 female Bostons probably won't get along.

Both Lucy and Bob have been fixed.

My question is I guess two fold.  1.  Is it true that two females probably won't get along?  2.  Do males care if there is another one? (ie the alpha dog thing...) What do you suggest?

Answer
Wow, Your Boston Family sounds wonderful!  I understand why you want another playmate for your Lucy girl......
I am thinking that a male would be a better choice for Lucy.  
As long as the male is neutered, Bob should be fine.  He is the Alpha and the pup will fall under his control.  YES, two females can be a problem, as humans can be also.

Because Bob is an alpha and there will be many dog Years between them, I feel that a girl will be a good choice.



BEST wishes...
Marie Peppers
http://www.apluspetcare.com/untitled4.html