Second dog opportunity -- should I do it?
 

I've been wanting another dog for a long time. I think Jackson would be a much happier dog, and I think and hope I'd be a much happier person.

I've searched on petfinder many times with seemingly no luck. They either don't accept out of state adoptions, adoption is already pending, my age (I'm 20) and often times it's 21+, or something always goes wrong.

I've gone the breeder route. I've researched a ton of breeders, got into the Silky Terrier for a while, most breeders won't sell me a male because apparently Silky's are known for same sex dog aggression which I can't have. I wasn't sure I wanted to deal with the puppy phase again... so that was making my decision harder as well.

Well, I found this little guy about 20 minutes away from my house the Penny Savers ad. He will be 1yrs old later this month. He's around 11lbs at last vet visit. He seems well taken care of and groomed. He is neutered, UTD on shots, has vet papers, and akc papers. The owner and I have been texting all morning and I think I'm going to go over later and make a visit to see if he and Jackson get along.

Her description of him:
Marco is a 10 month old Yorkie, he is neutered, shots up to date and comes with papers, I will also suppy all Veterinarian papers. He loves outside, playing with his toys, and he most definitely love other dogs and kids. I am selling him because we are moving and cant take Marco with us. I really want him to go to a nice loving family if thats you I look forward to speaking with you. The price for Marco is 500 but I will negotiate.

He is seemingly a perfect fit. She said the last snow storm, he loved! He just loves being outdoors, period. Hello, perfect for Jackson! :p

So, I'm gonna go over to this house.... of course you a see a dog, and you usually want to take him home right then and there! But any tips for me? What should I ask? What should I be looking for? Will I just KNOW if he's the right one for Jackson & I? If it doesn't 'click'.... will I know, and be able to walk away? lol.

My only tip is take Jackson with you to make sure it's a good fit for him too. Otherwise, congrats in advance! :D He sounds like a great fit.

oh Brit, that's so exciting. Marco sounds perfect to be a playmate for Jackson. His personality, age and weight.
With dogs, i kind of let my heart rule my head, so i can't give any sensible advice. I just think you will know when you meet him.
When i went to see my little puppy farm girl, my husband said 'try not to like her!' I did try a bit, but she just won me over, even with all her problems.
there was 'just something about her', and hopefully you will find the same when you go to meet Marco.
Can't wait to see how it goes, and if Jackson likes him. It doesn't matter if its not love at first sight, but as Jackson is friendly, hopefully it will all go well.

oh my marco is adorable. I say go see how they get along, however jackson will be out of his element and may not be so happy at first, I just rescued a dog a month back after my other dog died, shaffer had always had fife with him, it took him about 2 days and he was in love with cooper, both boys but it was love lol. The first day was a little rough, but smooth sailing after that. I always think 2 is a great idea, I work at home but when i go out i like that they always have company, and shaffer my 7 year old was not the most active, he has lost 1 pound since copper came, he has 1 pound to go but he and cooper are non stop so i think he will be is tip top shape in no time. I hope it goes well with marco,, and i love the coloring of jackson, he looks so sweet and fun in his pics.

Putting Max's medical issue aside I think that getting Cooper a brother was the best thing I could do for both Cooper and my family. The joy in watching the 2 dogs interact is so fulfilling and the change in Cooper's activity level is just wonderful.

Personally, I had no idea if Maxi was right for Cooper. I trusted my instincts and assumed Cooper would be fine with him. The first 3 days were very difficult but I don't think I can break them apart, even after a week.

Also, Brit, you have a knack at training Jackson. You can put those skills to use in making sure that they behave together.

I'm 100% - go for it. Keep in mind that Jackson might not love him when you bring them to meet.

Why is this woman selling a dog? What's the issue? Is there a health contract?

I agree with Deuce! Go see Marco and see if Jackson and him get along. I would also ask to see his veterinary history. If Marco is as well taken care of as you think, the family will have a folder for him. At least that's what I do with every receipt from the vet. :) I keep it all together so I know exactly when Kaji went to the vet and what did they do. If everything checks out, OH MY GOD! You'll have 2 babies. :)

You may also want to leave your wallet at home. Make it clear this is only a first visit to see if the boys get along. :)

Thanks, Karen! I'm really glad to hear that from you. I know how much Cooper loves his brother already.

She said she is traveling a lot and hardly home and just wants him to go to a good family or individual. But I'm sure she will elaborate more when I meet her today. There is no health contract that she mentioned... but I probably should ask that, if by chance, something is wrong with him if she would take him back, etc. And she how she would handle a situation like that. I don't know, do you think it would be rude of me to type something up, like a health contract and get her to sign? I don't know how she would take that!

It's a tough call but i have a neighbor Lisa that found herself in similar situation. She had 2 other pups at home and wasn't sure if the third would mesh with the rest of pups and the family. Lisa needed to be sure before committing so the owner of the pup (who just wanted the best rehome they could find) agreed to week trial basis. It was agreat opportunity to see how they would all get along, as it turns out it was a perfect fit. Lisa felt it was a great way for all involved to get to know each other, the original owners, Lisa and family and most importantly the 3 pups. So maybe you can try a week with the pup and she how jackson does.

LOL @ the last sentence! VERY good advice for me!

And yes, she says she has all of his veterinarian history and papers since he was born.

Ahh, okay, I'm not gonna lie. I'm getting a little excited.

I do still live at home, with my mom and stepdad and halfsister. I have my own section of the house with a bathroom, bedroom, living area, etc so it's basically like living on my own, they're not here from 9-5, mom owns a salon so she's often not home 'til 8. I know they would not particularly agree with the initial idea of me getting another dog (well, stepdad probably doesn't care, moms just not a dog person). But I know once I brought him home, they'd be fine. That's just how they are, lol. They even contemplated the idea of another dog for themselves after their other dog, Carmen, passed away. My mom said she just works too much.

Aww, Marco is a cutie! Definitely take Jackson with you. I hope it works out! I'd love a second dog, and Levi would love a playmate. It's just not the right time for me.

I don't think it's rude to talk health contract with the previous owner. Type something up. Get her to go over all of Marco's vet records with you and don't be afraid to question anything.

Good luck! :)

I don't want to rain on your parade, and I'm already seeing that I'm going to become one of those crazy YT people.....but, chances are that god forbid something is wrong with him after a week, you aren't going to want to give him back. I would however be curious how she would handle a situation. I doubt that it's her financial responsibility to care for the dog after selling it.

I think you should chat with her. I wouldn't put anything in writing. If it so happens that you are loving the dog, then sit at her coffee table and discuss issues and upon agreement, put something in writing. Chances are he's going to be a wonderful, happy, healthy brother. :)

That would be GREAT if she would agree to a week trial. I think that would make me feel more comfortable.

No, you're right! I probably wouldn't give him back anyways, lol.

I think today I will just chat with her and see what the deal is. :)

Leave your wallet home. Google her phone # and do research.

I couldn't find anything on her phone number- I googled earlier. ;) Just two ads for Marco, and then a bunch of Yellow Book type stuff.

He sounds like a great fit for you guys!
I have 2 boys and no problems. I think you just have to make sure their personalities are compatable. Good luck!

Thanks :)

Do you find two is better than one?

I think if show her 1 of Jackson's videos she would jump at the chance for a one week trial. Who wouldn't want thier pup to have Jackson as their big brother.lol:)

From the sounds of it he sounds like he would be perfect for you! Do you know if theres a place you could meet her at around her house so it's neuteral ground? Then go over to her house and see how he's living. I talked for a month before getting Zach and my breeder was so honest about everything that each new thing she told me, he sounded like he would be perfect! Once we brought him home, it was almost instant that Lola and Zach got along! Within a few days they were playing and now they are glued to each other! I couldn't of found a better fit for OUR family and Lola!

Good luck I hope it works out for you. I think you will get a feeling if it's ment to be!

To be honest sometimes i wish i hadn't gotten a second dog because then gatsby was not my only baby anymore,sometimes i feel like im playing favorites.
however after the second the third and forth wear easy.
Gatsby is my only little boy but he loves his sisters and it really dose make them happier

How exciting! I know adding Lane to our family was a slightly different situation since she was coming from a rescue and was also a puppymill survivor, which comes with its own set of issues. I thought Rory would be a little unhappy having to share all her attention with another pup, but she could not have been any sweeter. Rory was very well socialized and active (like Jackson), and she attended doggie daycare daily while we were at work during the day too.

I'll tell you I kept going back and forth on whether or not I should add another dog with my biggest concern being how it would affect Rory. The second I walked into the rescue and saw all the yorkies pulled from the mill, I knew we were going home with one. My heart definitely wins over my brain in situations like this, so leaving your wallet at home might not be a bad idea. Lane sticks to Rory like glue, but I know Rory is thrilled to have a playmate and someone to play keepaway with at all times. :D

I agree the ideal situation would be if you could have a foster to adopt situation, but from what I gather of Jackson's personality is that he will be happy to have another companion around.

Good luck! I know it's easier said than done, but if something just dosen't seem quite right, it's okay to walk away. I know you know all the right questions to ask. On the other hand, I think you'll know pretty fast if Jackson and Marco are destined to be brothers!

Hey Brit.

I have to agree with everyone, this is very exciting and my first reaction is that you should go snatch him up immediately.. :p But, there are a lot of things to consider first. I don't want to discourage you whatsoever, because I think that you are ready for a new dog and so is Jackson! I just want to let you know how my experience has been, because I am around the same age as you.

My boys Marshall and Jimi got along almost instantly. They are both supersized yorkies and very active, so their personalities mesh well. :) Most days they run around the house chasing each other, playing with toys, etc. They both love going for long walks together and from what I can see, they just enjoy each other's company. :D Now that Jimi has a playmate, they keep themselves better occupied (so I have some free time to do homework and stuff when I am at home), and I also don't feel so bad when I have to leave them alone for extended periods of time - like when I have to work for 8 hours straight. They have really bonded - they sleep together, eat together, everything. If I take Marshall to the vet without Jimi, Jimi will cry by the window and watch us drive away..:rolleyes: I think that you will know immediately if Marco and Jackson will get along, once you go visit her house. It sounds like they have a lot in common, so hopefully they will love each other! :)

I know this depends on the dog, but are you ready for a possible personality change in Jackson? I know he is your baby so it is difficult to imagine, but when I added Marshall to my family, Jimi definitely changed. He used to be very submissive, but now he has more of an alpha male personality. It is not necessarily a bad thing, but he kind of puts Marshall in his place from time to time. I think he has a sort of understanding with him that he is the top dog. :rolleyes: It is also really important that you don't focus too much of your time, energy, love, etc. on the new dog. I think I spent too much time babying Marshall and I made Jimi feel threatened. Now whenever I pick up Marshall and not Jimi, then Jimi will bark or cry for me to pay attention to him. I feel bad for making him jealous. I don't know if this could possibly happen to Jackson, but I just wanted to make you aware of the possibility.

I know we discussed before that you wanted to adopt instead of purchase from a breeder, so I am a little surprised that you are going this route but I kind of have to agree with it. Although I would always recommend adopting, I must admit that it has been a challenge for me, especially considering factors like my age and financial situation. I feel great knowing that I rescued Marshall, but it has definitely been hard on my wallet. He only cost me an intial $150, but he has cost me several hundred more in the long run. Marshall came to me with an upper respiratory infection, and then he gave it to Jimi. That was just within the first week I had him. Since then, we have been back and forth to the vet, it is like Marshall's second home. He has all of this allergy issues and gets scabs on his body from itching, it is really difficult to deal with. So if you can get a healthy dog from a breeder, then I will definitely support you. Just make sure you review her vet records, and call the vet to verify that all of the information is correct.

Also, I want to add that I like the fact that he is already neutered. Hopefully that will help avoid marking and other unwanted territorial behaviors.

Last thing to consider.. Right now you are living at home, so you have an ideal living situation to add another dog. But- you said you are planning on moving/renting sometime in the future? Well, right now I am looking for apartments, and I must say that it is really hard to find cost efficient, dog friendly apartment, at least in my area. Most of the time there is an added security deposit, sometimes an extra monthly fee, and also they might have breed/weight restrictions. A lot of the apartments that I found only allow 1 dog, so right now I am kind of stuck. Most of the apartments close to my school, in my price range don't allow pets whatsoever. :( I am a full-time student with a part time job, and with my small income I wouldn't be able to pay for an apartment on my own right now. You already have Jackson, so maybe this is something you have already looked into. I sense that neither you or I are in a big rush to move, but it is always something to consider..

I also didn't realize how much money I would spend on food for two dogs. I know you are well aware that it would 2x as much food, but once you get started with treats, harnesses, and all of the other things we love to spoil our babies with, it really starts to add up quickly! :eek:

I don't want to scare you away from getting another, I just want to remind you of some of the things that may happen when you do. Getting Marshall was one of the happiest times in my life. Looking back, I probably shouldn't have added him so hastily, because I wasn't really financially stable at the time, but I would never take it back. I absolutely love having two - they make my heart whole. :)

I hope you are happy with whatever decision you make. I know I had been pushing you to get another since the beginning.. (my fault, lol) I just hope that if you do get this little guy that Jackson and Marco love each other and everything works out for you! :D

Sorry this is so long - but if you ever need to chat, you can always PM me!
Good luck girl, keep us posted!

Ok I'm sure everyone is getting tired of my horse analogies, but I agree with this post. If I were buying a dog, from someone I didn't know (ie not a breeder) a trial would be perfect. How we would do it with horses, is suggest a non-refundable deposit and give a postdated cheque for the end of the week. see if they'll let you take Marco for a week, then you can have him vetted by your vet if you wish, learn about his temperment and see if Jackson likes him. At the end of the week call and either arrange to bring him back or tell her to cash the cheque. BUT beware... you have to not allow yourself to get attached to the new guy until you know it's right. This ad tells me the woman wants her baby to go to a good home, so if you don't take him someone else great will!

Good luck!

THANKS!!! You are the best. I knew you'd give me a sensible post. You've given me a ton to think about. Like you said, I'm not in a hurry to move out and I totally understand the renting situation can be harder with two. I know I'm at an age where most people would never suggest to get another dog! I'm at the local community college and I have pretty much decided I want to get my Associates (I'm so close) and then just start looking into the job market. I'm also lucky that my area in general is really pet friendly, I've searched a ton of rentals just to get an idea, and most allow pets!

I think what's getting me too... is the fact that after I get this guy(if I do), I cannot get anymore. I really love two and don't want anymore dogs than that. So for the next 10-15yrs, it's just these two. If you know what I mean. Maybe I should wait a year or two before adding a second. I don't know. But I also like them to grow up together sort of and being similar in age.

Well, I have been given great advice here on this thread and I guess I will make sure my BRAIN is working overtime today and my heart working a little less. I am leaving my house now to go see Marco.... and I guess we will see what happens.

All good advice above, but also, don't be afraid to walk away if it isn't a good fit.

I went and saw two dogs about 2 months before I got Piper, going into it I was dead set that I wanted one. When I got there and interacted with them, it just didn't feel right. I couldn't explain it, but just something there.

I finally said no to both, and now got Piper!

Good luck!

Marco is adorable. Looking forward to hearing your report when you return. Wishing you and Jackson the very best.

Absolutly! They are always playing together. Their personalities are so different, and I think that's why they get along so well. They keep each other busy, although Calvin is a bully sometimes. There is a big size difference, Chase is 15lbs, and Calvin is 4lbs (he was just under 3lbs when we brought him home), but Chase seems to know just how rough he can be with Calvin. I'm more worried about Chase getting hurt, Calvin seems to play too hard sometimes :rolleyes:

Sadie is going to be two this month and we added Beemer in March. I wouldn't go back for anything. Yes, it did change Sadie's personality to some extent. I don't know how to describe it but she seemed to become so mature overnight. Sadie was pretty upset at first (she wouldn't even come in the same room as Beemer) but she adjusted within a week. Now they are inseparable. When I come up the stairs there are two little cocked heads waiting for me side by side. Probably the most positive thing is how completely happy and satisfied they both are. I used to take Sadie visiting friends with dogs just to give her some socialization but she gets that all the time now. I don't feel as guilty when I go to work because they have each other. The one down side I've had is how much harder working with them on training is. I know you spend a lot of time training Jackson but it's hard to work with both together. Beemer is a puppy so Sadie is way ahead of him with tricks and such and that might be part of it. The easiest way for me to do it is to separate them and work with one at a time. It's just more difficult but certainly not impossible. Good luck on your decision! I would do it again in a heartbeat.

Alright, so stupid me was too pre-occupied to take any cell phone pics.

But he was soooo cute! He looked pretty much just like Jackson, just a little big smaller and his face was a bit tinier, if that makes sense. Even though he's 11lbs, his frame wasn't as big as Jackson's.

He was a sweetheart. I had Jackson on the leash in the front yard waiting for her to bring him out, and he came right out the door wagging his tail and sniffing Jackson. Jackson pretty much ignored him, LOL, but I think that's a good thing for a first meeting. It was hot out and we never got a chance to take them off leash together. Jackson didn't back away, or get snippy, or anything, he just laid down on the ground while Marco sniffed him all over. Marco just seemed really laid back yet wanting to play! He also came up and let me pet him no problem, he was more interested in Jackson than me though. ;) So he definitely didn't seem shy or reserved.

I kinda mentioned something about a trial run, and she looked at me like she didn't know what I was talking about, lol. And then she was like ohhh you mean, like take him back? she just said "I really just wanna find a good permanent home for him." I don't think she would want to take him back honestly. She seems like she cares for him and loves him alot, but she's just the typical kind of person that their dog is just that... a dog. She is moving at the end of the month from this current house, and she has 3 kids (aged 5, 10, and 13, I think). She said two of the girls were heavily involved in cheerleading and they travel all over the place, and her new job was going to also require her to travel alot. So she wanted to find a home where he would get the attention. She said she would love to get picture updates, etc, which of course I wouldn't mind doing.

She had listed $500 for him, but told me she'd take $400. He comes with crate, toys, food, pee pads, etc. Do you think that's a fair price? I was hoping she'd come down a bit, but he IS neutered, UTD on shots, groomed nicely, etc. She said he is outdoor trained but it's hard to get him to go out in the rain, so she does have pads out that he uses fine. I don't use pads at all, so hopefully I'll be able to get him to go outside in the rain! If not, I'll always keep pads on hand. He does not mark indoors and only did it a few times before he was neutered and then he stopped.

I honestly wanted to take him right then and there... but I resisted. I asked her if it was okay I had a night to think on it, etc, and she was totally understanding of that. I was just want to wrap my brain together. I'm not going to lie, I'm a little scared and nervous that it won't work out right or something will go wrong. But... I guess I still just need to think. I told her I'd give her a call in the morning.

She also has all of his papers if I wanted to register him, and his parents names, etc. One of her cousins has his brother. He turns 1 year old August 12th, so I'd have him in time for his first birthday. :D

What does your gut say?

I personally love having multiple dogs. I just think it makes life more fun, although a lot more hectic.

As for $400, I do think that is a fair price- though others may disagree with me. She's already neutered him, which will save you some money. Though as you well know, the upfront price is the cheapest part of the dog!

Good luck with what ever you decide.