Our lab Rocky is now 13 months old and just starred to de-crate him, we are undecided to have another lab with if and buts is it the right age for rocky to have either a pup or one a bit older than him or just wait till Rocky is older not sure?
I think its difficult to say really as they all vary in times of maturity . Its said that the best time to introduce a new puppy is when the existing dog is around 18-24 months old and has a reasonably good level of training . Pups not only learn from us , but follow the lead of the resident dog . Having said that , its also a case of when its right for you as the owner, when you feel that you have the time to devote to training a new puppy whilst also giving time to Rocky, good luck anyway
I agree with Kate. It is different for everyone. We recently fostered a rescue who was about 6 months older than Harley (21 months old) and it worked well as she was able to teach the foster dog to play as well as basic commands. What would you like more?
I had two German Shorthaired Pointers with a year between them which was fine, but they then died in old age very close to each other which seemed to make each death even worse.
I don't think there is a "good" time to introduce another dog into the household, it all depends upon your dog, level of training and the amount of time you have to devote to the new dog and also to Rocky. How does Rocky get on with other dogs, is he willing to share toys etc,, how will he react to "sharing" you with another dog? Wish you luck with making your decision - certainly not easy.
Our youngster Benson was just about a year old and we adopted a rescue lab Casper, who at the time was 5 and a half. Casper also had a fair few training issues to sort out and no training to speak of. In hindsight it would have been ideal if Benson was 6 months or so older. An younger dog, or puppy would be different I guess, but still a lot to consider in terms of training. With us it was however a case of our home being right for Casper our rescue, so we just adapted and put Benson's training on hold somewhat. It really was a challenge with 2 dogs, and in our case meant separate walks which is time-consuming. Trying to walk 2 dogs and train, even with 2 people can send mixed messages to them. I think though it really depends on the original dog, if they are well trained, confident and well socialised dogs it probably would be much easier. . Saying that, wouldn't change what we have for the world, we have 2 wonderful labs, with an age gap of 5 years who adore each other
Thanks all of you yes it's a hard decision I would never leave rocky out at all and he is fine with other dogs loves them all, with his toys not yet had that opportunity. Do we want a pup though or older dog just a little bit older than Rocky that's the question. Might have to think a bit more before deciding thanks again.
