New Pup - What Gender Should I Get

[Alicia Goldberg]

We have a 1 year old male nutered Papillon and lost our 13 yr. old male nutered Golden a few months ago. The dogs got along quite well with the only problem being the Pap sometimes wanted to play when the old man didn't.

We are currently shopping for a German Shepherd pup. I have heard tell that I am safest getting a female to avoid squables (which our 6 pound Pap would obviously lose). However, my husband REALLY wants a male.

Any experience/thoughts any one has would be very much appreciated.

[Amber]

I have also heard if you have male to get a female and vice versa for the same reason. However, I have to say, I have two spayed female dogs and they are perfect together...no fighting whatsoever. It may be different for males...I'm not sure, I've never had male animals. Fights can happens between male/female matches as well, so watch out. What ever you choose, see if you can bring your Pap along to see how well the two get along before you bring the other dog home. That way you aren't introducing the puppy to your Pap on his territory. I brought Precious to the shelter to introduce her to Sally before bringing Sally home. If a breeder won't let you bring your Pap along, you may want to seek another breeder as this is the first step in making sure your current dog and your new dog get along. I would think if a breeder was responsible, they would understand why you would want to bring along your dog, on leash of course, to make sure everything goes smoothly.

That's just my opinion though...

[babyblue]

In my experience females and males get along best, but I think since your pap has already got along with a male I don't think you'll have too much of a problem. Other than dominence things, which the GSD probably would win.