[alaskayorkie]

I think dogs do benefit from canine companionship, but introducing a new dog to your house often takes some work. Be prepared for that. Don't panic if things go perfectly.

Eddie was 2 when I introduced a 10-year-old male Yorkie to the house, like you as companionship. It went horribly. Eddie suddenly went from a sweet only child to a jealous toy-hoarder. He would beat up the senior Yorkie, who was quite frail. I was aghast. But I worked at it. I separated when I couldn't supervise, I leashed until they learned how to play nicely. It wasn't easy, but it worked. They were never best friends, but they definitely benefited from the companionship.

When the senior male died, I added a puppy female to the mix with high hopes. Nope. Eddie started beating her up. So we went back to the same processes of separating unless I could supervise. The puppy learned not to be so pushy, and Eddie learned she's no threat. Now they're great together. Jillie knows her limitations, and Eddie lets her get away with more and more playfulness because he's learned that I, not him, am responsible for enforcing the rules.

I recently added a 10-year-old Chesapeake Bay retriever to the mix, and I'm going through the same thing to a lesser degree. The Yorkies respect her size and don't push her too far, and the Chessie is learning that they're no threat. But I still have to watch them at toy time.

One last note: The initial meeting is important. Do it in a neutral location, so they learn to play before any turf wars develop.

Good luck!