Should we get a 2nd Dog?

It really depends on the first dog. Honestly analyzing your dog's personality without projecting your own personality on to him or her is difficult. Try and get a sense of your dog around other dogs. If he hates big white dogs, clearly that's not a good match. However, if he loves dogs that are smaller then him, that is the way to go. Be respectful of the fact that your first dog will be territorial at first and the new pet often gets more attention at the beginning.

Hmmm. It sounds like your dog is actually pretty dominant rather then social and outgoing. If your dog is running after other dogs and chasing them, or barking incessantly every time she see another dog, thats semi-aggressive, dominant behavior. You say she is clingy with you, which is my main clue that before you add a second pup, you are going to need to do some behavior modification and formal socialization before bringing another dog into the mix.

Before getting a second dog, sign up for obedience classes and practice the commands with your dog every day. This should help build confidence, reduce aggression and help Waggles see you are boss. In addition, you will get to see how Waggles reacts in a controlled environment with other dogs.

Once you and Waggles have been doing this routine for a while, if you still want a second dog, go for it! Just keep in mind, the second dog will do nothing to keep Waggles from being lonely if she is a misbehaving dog. More likely then not, she will teach the new dog her bad habits.

Thanks! I didn't think of Waggles behavior that way.

I heard you should get a smaller dog with a submissive personality for a second dog.

Introduce your dog to other dogs on common ground, outside, where neither will feel territorial. If either one growls, try again another day. if both are interested, let them sniff each other and see how they do. After a few minutes of good behavior, separate them and try again later. Once they are consistent, you can try letting them offleash together at a secure dog park where they both feel safe. If they play nice, keep bringing them there for a few days - then try introducing them to each other in their homes. Don't be surprised if the friends become enemies all of a sudden. Take it slow, remain calm and relaxed and firmly, without emotion separate them if there is any negative behavior. Keep in mind, doggie play can often look like fighting, even when its friendly. You will see the change if one or both gets aggeresive. Never stick your hand between fighting dogs. If they get angry at one another drop something heavy to make a loud noise and distract them from their fight and have the other owner grab one dog when he isn't expecting it. Even dogs who love each other fight sometimes. It has a lot to do with their owners, how relaxed dog and owner are and how much time your dog spent with other dogs.

I agree with the above advice.

In response to how much more time you have been spending out of the house - perhaps rather then investing in a second dog (shots, vet bills, etc.) you might want to invest in doggie daycare?

That should help socialize him and curb dominance issues. Also, you will have no reason to feel guilty! He will be having a grand old time no matter how much you work and he'll be tired and happy when you pick him up!

no, cause dogs suck.