1. I've already bought several things (toys, car seat, clothes, another food/water bowl set (same as Sophia's but blue. teehee!) But is there anything special that I need for a male yorkie that I wouldn't already have for my female?
A Belly Band
2. I live in a 3rd floor apartment.... I'm just now realizing the logistics of carrying two down about 20 stairs (With two doors separating us from the outside!). I tried walking outside with Sophia in one arm and a pillow, to simulate Brody, in the other (I looked crazy!) ... and I could open one door, but not the second! Any suggestions will be appreciated!!!!! Sophia can walk up all the stairs, but i'd rather her not.
Puppy proof the balcony and put a potty patch or similar out there, or peepad train them. It will be too risky trying to carry a squirmy puppy much less with Sophia. Or get one of those pouch type carriers that you wear to put one in (there's a strap and snap to secure them with.).
3. Walking 2 dogs.... Coupler or two leashes?? I bought a coupler and I bought another leash.. so I plan on trying both.
I'd use two separate leashes to begin with, until the puppy learns to behave and you are sure they both really get along. Very hard to separate them if needed on a coupler.
4. Feeding two dogs! Eek! Right now, he's on a different food than Sophia. Sophia has a sensitive stomach... and I really can't let her get any of his food. But she free feeds, and so does he. So what's the best way to keep them from eating each others food until I can gradually get him switched over?
I don't think free feeding will work, unless you keep them separated all the time.
5. Introducing the two!!! I've already decided we're going to introduce them at the park near my apartment, but my question is... who holds Sophia and who holds Brody?? I'm worried if Sophia sees me walking another dog, she'll instantly get upset. I feel like if it was someone else (like a friend), then she'll be super excited to play with another dog. But I don't really trust any of my friends to hold the leash.
You can walk both at the same time. They'll be too busy walking to get in any trouble with each other. When they tire out a bit, let them sniff each other, at the first sign of trouble, pull them apart and start walking briskly again.
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