2nd Dog Girl or Boy?

[denby04]

I have a 2 and a half year old speyed Shi Tzu/Poodle cross and I am thinking of getting another dog. I am indecisive for two reasons. Firstly, boy or girl, secondly, and more importantly, Lucy is very clingy to me at home. I get up, she follows, I do upstairs, she follows. When visit my mum and sister, she is very keen to please them (attention grabbing) and ignores me. So, do I wait until she is older and calmer and should I get her a companion now. Advice would be appreciated. Many thanks.

[jules77]

She is more inclined to get on with a male dog than another bitch, and as she is spayed you wont have a problem with her coming in season. I dont see any reason to wait until she is older, a doggy companion may do her the world of good.

[Ratty2E]

I think getting her a brother or sister is a great idea and it will probably do her the world of good. Although we like to think we can cater for their every emotional need there is nothing better than a fellow dog. She will be a lot less clingy and damanding on your attention and basically happier with a fellow doggy to 'talk' to. I wouldn't wait I think it's better to introduce another dog whilst they are still young and have the energy and inclination to want to play with the puppy. As for boy or girl I don't think it matters if they are all neutered.

[divegirl]

A younger male would be a great companion for her! Someone for her to boss around!

Lisa x

[denby04]

Thank you all, all your responses make sense and I will definately seek a companion for Lucy. However, for some reason I am not keen on male dogs!!! Don't know why as Lucy cocks a leg when having a wee (not up a wall or a tree). Divegirl, I think your comment has really made me think as Lucy is nervous of some dogs and could be "the boss" for another.

[divegirl]

Sorry, coming back to this late!
A bitch will always [normally] boss a dog around. I've worked in rescue for a while now and this is always the combination that we recommend. I bought a young male Great Dane into my home a few years ago that was apparently aggressive! Five minutes with my bitch GD and he was putty in her paws.....and still is.

Lisa x

[lankeela]

Even if spayed bitches can often be aggressive with each other, and two bitches who don't get on can be a nightmare. I would definitely get a male and have him neutered if he isn't already done.