I live alone and have a six year old, lab/boxer, unneutered male, named Maxie, that I've had since he was a pup.

I bought Maxie to serve as company for Rocky (shepherd mix, neutered male) who died when he was eight a couple of years ago. I was a bit surprised that Rocky did not take to Maxie, but rather saw the new addition as competition. They fought over food and rawhide bones, sometimes actually biting one another. Me, I'm a peace-lover and was grieved at their fighting. When Rocky died, however, maybe it was just me, but I thought Maxie seemed a little lost at the sudden dwindling of the pack.

For some time now, I've been considering getting a young, spayed female as company for Maxie, because sometimes he still seems a bit sad and bored... and me, I kind of have to do my chores around the house, and occasionally go out and buy groceries, etc.

Am I naïve in thinking a young, spayed, female addition to the pack would make for a happier environment for Maxie? I don't want to create (severe) competition between the two dogs, particularly over my attention to them. Or do you think Maxie would feel jealous and resentful that he has to share with a new youngster female? On the other hand, I've often thought that the more in a pack, the merrier.

I would greatly appreciate an expert opinion. Thank you. Steve

Hi Steve,
I'm so sorry Rocky died so young. I can tell you why Rocky and Maxie didn't get along. One was neutered, and one was not. See this isn't all about reproduction, this effects their temperament. Un-neutered males are very territorial, and that can quickly turn into frustruation and aggression. This is why Rocky took the role of packleader. So when Rocky died, even though they fought, Maxie felt lost because the dominant packleader was gone.

I think it would be a great idea to adopt a new companion for Maxie, but not until you get him neutered. Then they can start on even turf. They know if there is one in their pack isn't altered, and fights will happen. Also, when picking out a dog, hopefully from a shelter, take your time and pick one that has the same energy, or a lower energy than Maxie. That way you can have a more stable pack. :)

Edit:: Also, you have to remember. Dogs think in the here and now. They don't reason things out in their minds like humans do. They don't think, well now Daddy loves him more than me. They may act out a little, but trust me, that is not what they are thinking. They are NOT thinking that Daddy loves me less. That's just what we think, because we are people that like to think things through and reason with them. All Maxie will care about, is this strange little thing in the house, and why it is there! The best way to get them to be buddies, is to take them on walks together. That will bond them and then they will know that they are pack members.