Chuffy
Posted : 2/2/2007 6:12:34 PM
My advice would be a dog of the opposite gender and preferably a different size and type to the dog you have now... They tend to have fewer problems getting along (but thats just a general rule) Maybe a medium sized shelter mix? If I were you I'd go to your local shelter and see what they have..... make sure your current dog visits the potential new dog and they meet on neutral territory and get on well. Also keep in mind just because he likes play dates doesn't mean he will like having a playmate full time, so make sure wherever you get your new dog from they have a policy that you can return her at any time if you need to.
If you would rather have a puppy, either go for a shelter mix (but they do get snapped up quick!) or go to a reputable breeder - be prepared to wait, pay and travel for a good puppy. (see the Sticky about pet stores!!!!)
To give you suggestions about what would be a good breed for your family, could you be more specific? Like how much is the dog likely to be left during the day? Would a dog that sheds alot of hair or barks a lot be a nuisance? What about if it needed a lot of grooming? Do you have any other pets? Do you have any children?