Expert: Alan J Turner, SATS LL1 - 11/3/2006

Question
Hi Alan,
I've been wanting to get another dog for quite awhile and feel I am ready.  We have a 7 year old male bichon, who has been seen and diagnosed at the Univ of Penn Animal Behavioral Clinic with fear aggression. He doesn't welcome people in the house and fear bites, as a result, we were told to crate him upstairs, he has bitten two children. He loved my sister's older Dalmation that resently passed away.  We took him last night to meet a 3 month old male coton de tulear, he ingnored it, wouldn't even smell it? I am concerned about Rufus. I'd had advice from other "trainers" that dogs do better and are happier in packs, I've read alot and understand it takes time, but, should I read into that meeting that Rufus should be a one family dog only or will he eventually adjust?  The Dalmation was male and he loved him?  He didn't display aggression towards the pup, he just wanted nothing to do with it and kept trying to get away from it, didn't bark, just seemed tense? I'd like your opinion on Rufus and whether I should go ahead and get this pup or not?  Out on walks and away from his territory Rufus will cry to see certain dogs, others he wants nothing to do with?  I appreciate your time to answer my question. Today is Friday and I was thinking of getting this pup on monday? Also, if lyou feel Rufus would benefit from another dog, does it matter with the sex?  Or perhaps Rufus would be better with an older rescued dog, one with less of an energy level, although Rufus is a pup at heart!
Thanks,
Debbie


Answer
Dear Debbie,
Thanks for the questions.

In general, opposite sex, canine playmates get along better than same sex playmates. That does not mean that two females or two males can't be the best of friends, it's just that the majority of same house, inter-dog aggression cases involve two dogs of the same sex - not necessarily a overwhelming majority, but a majority nonetheless.

Some older dogs do not tolerate or appreciate the vigor in which puppies seek out interactions. Many older dogs are actually fearful of puppies. When you think of it, the last time they were around obnoxious, playful, unpredictable, pups, they were pups too!

I would arrange to "try out" any potential adoptees and see how Rufus responds. A short meeting is better than no meeting, but be aware that the visiting dog will not show his or her "true colors" until a period of 10-20 days. It takes that long for dogs to acclimate to their new environments.

Discuss a return policy or a try-out period before you adopt.   It's not quite a coin toss - you can stack the odds in your favor, but in some respects it is never a sure thing that the dogs will enjoy each other's company. Recognize that any new addition will change the dynamics of the household and is always an adventure!

Happy Training!
AT