What gender should my second dog be?

Question

I currently have an 18 month old Dalmatian mix. He's very social and friendly with other dogs and people. An all around good boy. I'd like to get a second dog as a playmate for him. I have a house, a job, and dog walkers who take my current boy out three times a week to the dog park. I am ready for the responsibility of a second dog. My question is what gender of dog should I get? Bandit occasionally shows some alpha tendencies at the dog park. We go every day so I think he thinks that he runs the place. Would it be better for us to get a male or female? I want to minimize any dominance issues in my household. Thanks!

Update:

He is neutered so mating is not an issue. Any dog I bring home will be spayed/neutered.

? · Accepted Answer

You typically run into fewer problems if a 2nd dog is the opposite gender of the first dog so in your case a female would be the best choice assuming of course they are both altered

M · Answer

With almost all animals you will have the best luck with introducing them to the opposite gender. Both dogs should of course be fixed. Even if your dog does not show alpha tendencies as the only dog, that rule still applies.

Anonymous · Answer

Having both male and female dogs in the same household is a pain because they mate.

So I'd get another male. Don't worry about dominance issues, they are a necssary part of dog behaviour. Dogs naturally work out who's boss between them and are much happier than if you try to interfere. Just make sure they both know that you are et the top of the pecking order.

~TeeahMyWolf~ · Answer

You should get a female dog and neuter/spay them both... if you get another male he might try and dominate it causing a clash between them both.

calexandra100 · Answer

Male

Kim · Answer

Get a spayed female. He will want to dominate another male.

Arggg · Answer

I've had very good luck with male/female, both "fixed" of course. Introduce them to each other in a large, open area, such as a backyard.

clonkers2004 · Answer

either sex as long as they are neutured. 

I have three males and only one is entire - but even he isn't the dominant dog! :-)

cboy · Answer

you should get a female because they might have a good time while you are out and it would eliminate power isues

Anonymous · Answer

youy should get a no gender dog

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What gender should my second dog be?

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