[Mary4]

I've mentioned this a few times here and there about thinking of getting another Yorkie. I have some questions, and I figure this is where I'll get the best answers.

First off, Charlie is about 5 months old now. He's going to be on the bigger size. He was 7.5 at 12 weeks. His vet visit will be this week so I'll know more then, but at the last appointment the vet said he may be 15 or 20 pounds.

Charlie has a perfect personality. He just goes with the flow. If you want to play, so does he. If you want to nap, so does he. He's just very easy to get along with. He also seems socialized pretty well. He loves my friend's dog when we have play dates. He loves all kids. He is not a fan of men. Dogs usually love my dad and while Charlie won't growl or anything at him, he also stays away from him; won't even go near him for a treat. He avoids all teenage boys (except my own) and other men. He bit my ex-husband (and it was not a friendly teething bit. And I found out last night he bit my son's friend's dad. THe dad just laughed. I realize I need to address this. and I will.)

So the questions for getting a second yorkie or mix are:

1. Is there a better age to to do it? Would Charlie be more open now as a puppy or does it matter?

2. Should I get a male or a female for him (hahaha, I can hear the jokes now.) (Charlie is not neutered yet but will be at 6 months.


3. Does size matter? Since Charlie is on the bigger size, is it okay if I get one that's a bit smaller? I'm really looking for one as small as I can and still be healthy due to the severe and debilitating arthritis in my hands. I have trouble now picking up Charlie at a little over 8 pounds.

4. Do I keep them on the same schedule for feeding, etc.? When I feed them, would I put their bowls side by side or should I put them in separate rooms?

5. Same with sleeping. I don't crate. Should I get one big bed for them to share or should each have their own bed and they can decide themselves?

Any other tips for adding a second?