need help adding a 2nd dog

[Tiggeroo]

I have a four year old corgi. I thought we might add a 2nd dog. A friend wanted me to consider a 6yo corgi she knew about. I went to meet the dog amd planned to further consider the situation and get back to her. However, it was clear that the dog was being ignored to the point of neglect. She didn't know me but had all of his stuff bagged up. He sat next to my son and just wanted any attention he could give. I took the dog right there.
This dog is a sweetheart amd loves everybody. The woman claimed he was mean with her new second family of kids. I can't be sure but I really don't think so. He doesn't seem to know any commands and I am not sure he knows his name. I know he wouldn't come if I called him. He was always kept in a room by himself. He is 50lbs which is likely twice his suggested weight. He also at times compulsively barks.
I did not really plan for this and am fairly exhausted from the 2 dogs. Where I live they need to walk for bathroom. This dog does not pull much but kind of roams. My dog, who I had no problem with but I wasn't obsessive about true leash skills pulls amd also now when they both walk barks at every dog. He is well socialized but for some reason when walking now he barks at dogs. The main things I need suggestions with are
How to train them to walk well on leash together
How to prevent barking at other dogs
How to help with the compulsive barking
How to get them to play well together. My first dog gets a little protective of toys and jealous of attention during playtime. The rest of the time they are getting along. The other dog will just take the toy, run away and hide.
Any tips on weight loss. We are working on it with better food and plenty of exercise time but any tips would be appreciated.
Any way to help the dogs to bond. My first dog was an only child amd fairly spoiled for 4 years l. But he does love when other dogs visit and going to the dog park.tia

 

[okeydokey]

For the leash walking, I would totally recommend a gentle leader. It works wonders for my dog.

This new dog will begin to lose weight with the increase in activity and measured food, so I think that problem will take care of itself over time.

Good luck, it is a wonderful thing you are doing.

 

[yoopermom]

I assume you have not had him for very long yet? The transition when bringing a new dog (especially a poorly socialized one) can be long, so patience and good humor are key!

Think of "new dog" as a puppy (even though he's 6). He means well, but doesn't know or understand "the rules" of being a properly behaved dog.

Most important, make sure that each dog has a "safe space" (preferably crates, but different rooms, if need be), where each can retreat to, when one gets tired of the other. It will also give you a break. This would also allow you to feed them separately, which is extremely important if you want new dog to lose weight, and to help prevent any food aggression from flaring up.

If you can afford it, please consider getting a trainer or animal behaviorist in to work with you, otherwise find a nearby obedience club and sign up for classes with him.

Much of what you're dealing with will work itself out with time as you enforce consistent rules, he learns what those are, etc. It sounds as though his basic temperament is good, which is a blessing.

Good for you for taking him in!

Terri

 

[Tiggeroo]

How secure are gentle leaders?where I live is a fairly active neighborhood with people and dogs. We walk at least 3 times a day. I need to be very sure they can't get loose and run toward another dog or person.
I feed them in separate rooms. I do have quite a few rooms where dogs could have private space I was reluctant to I troupe crates when neither has had one.
I will likely hire a trainer. I have one I used when my 1st dog was young. But vet bills this week are over 400. Plus new food, beds... it will have to be in a few weeks.. I bought some small low calorie training treats amd corgis are very food motivated so I will get started on basic commands and leash skills really need to work on come amd stay. I am switching his food yet again. My 1st corgi had a weight problem and after trying many things I finally went with the vets suggestion amd used a prescription weight loss food. I don't care for it amd it seems to not be agreeing with this dogs stomach so we are back on a grain free.
Big concerns are making sure the 1st dog doesn't feel upset amd solving the play time problem. He was taught to play well with other dogs since he was a pup but it is clear he is getting possessive amd jealous.

 

[Luvchefmic]

Big concerns are making sure the 1st dog doesn't feel upset and solving the play time problem. He was taught to play well with other dogs since he was a pup but it is clear he is getting possessive amd jealous.

How long has the 2nd dog been in the house ? I'm not understanding what you are saying about " play time problem ", the first dog " feeling upset " or even " play time ".

Can you explain please so we can try to help.

 

[Hutchy]

I think working with a trainer is a fantastic idea. I wanted to comment on food. I have 2 11 year old Min Pins, one has Thyroid disease and gained a lot of weight while we were trying to get it under control. The best food for her and my other min pin has been Orijen and I use Wellness Grain Free Weight Management wet food. My vet suggested using a smaller amount of dry and more wet to make them feel full with less calories. It has made a significant difference in my chunky girl's weight and my other min pin has congestive heart failure which we manage with meds and acupuncture, she's also lost weight on this combo and it makes it easier to tell when she's retaining more fluids. The vet also suggested adding broccoli to their food because it's almost no calories but the fiber makes them feel fuller.

Good luck!

 

[whitney250]

It will just take some time and patience for your two babies to adjust. Dogs are a LOT like little kids when it comes to sharing and getting attention, but it will work itself out. I use a "no pull" harness for my puppy, it's great to keep them at attention while they're walking, even if they are not pullers. I would carry mini milkbones with me and reward all good behavior from both pups until they get the idea, then switch to praise instead of the treat. We adopted a 3 yr old Boxer from the local animal control and the poor thing didn't even know what a toy was, was protective over food and was a very jealous when it came to getting attention. We just worked with her, showing her what was and was not appropriate and she eventually got it Crates are also a good idea, make it like their "bedroom" and don't use it for punishment. They will come to see that as their personal space and will spend time in their on their own.

 

[Tiggeroo]

I think working with a trainer is a fantastic idea. I wanted to comment on food. I have 2 11 year old Min Pins, one has Thyroid disease and gained a lot of weight while we were trying to get it under control. The best food for her and my other min pin has been Orijen and I use Wellness Grain Free Weight Management wet food. My vet suggested using a smaller amount of dry and more wet to make them feel full with less calories. It has made a significant difference in my chunky girl's weight and my other min pin has congestive heart failure which we manage with meds and acupuncture, she's also lost weight on this combo and it makes it easier to tell when she's retaining more fluids. The vet also suggested adding broccoli to their food because it's almost no calories but the fiber makes them feel fuller.

Good luck!

How did you calculate how much food with a can dry combo?

 

[Tiggeroo]

I have had the new dog for only ten days. I would define playtime as anything involving toys or fetch in the home or personal attention time spent with the dogs esp on the floor. The first dog is ok with this for a minute then he barks or lightly growls and may try to nudge or chase the other dog away. I don't think it is about the toys because he doesn't mind if the new dog takes a toy and runs off with it. He will just come sit by myself or Dh.
Often when the first dog barks it triggers the compulsive monotone bark the other dog does sometimes which is very difficult to stop. This leads to a loud ruckus. Sometimes the noise and craziness seems to fuel more noise. These episodes only last for a moment or two but seem like forever. I quickly settle the dogs and they are both relaxing with us. However, I live in a large condo. I worry that the noise might cause a neighbor to complain.

 

[Luvchefmic]

From what you're describing it sounds pretty hopeful especially since it's only been 10 days. I am a big believer in Cesar Millan's training ways ( not everyone is & I understand that ) perhaps look at his website http://www.cesarsway.com/ there are good tips on the site.

I have been in your shoes many times over the years, we have 7 dogs and it all takes time. You can ask your vet for some advice too since a trainer will cost money as you said. Once you get them walking together regularly things should settle down. Good luck.

 

[Pea-n-Me]

I realize it's been 10 days so a little late, but I wouldn't change first dog's routine that much and I would gradually introduce the second dog. Since second dog doesn't really have a routine at your house yet, I'd sort of keep him on a "tighter leash" in order for him to learn his place and not step on toes of first dog, etc. He needs to learn doggie manners, for one thing. It's going to take a while for them to both adjust to their new routines and they may both, at some point, try dominating the other and there could be problems. I would keep their food separate for now, and tread lightly. If you had said you were just thinking about it I would have warned you to watch out with two males, especially bringing one in that's older than your first dog, and undersocialized, etc. Didn't you have some problems with your last Corgi?

 

[lauradis]

There is always a dominate dog when you have more then one dog in the house. Doesn't mean they should fight or be nasty to each other.

I'm a firm believer that one human in the house should be the pack leader all other humans in house should be higher on the pack order then the dog last. (in the dogs view)

If your having dog pack order issue there are plenty of dog sites that will show you how to correct it.

http://clubs.akc.org/aba/bully/multiple.htm

As you pointed out food is a high motivator, so once you find out who is dom, feed dom dog first, etc.

Its not mean to follow what ever pack order the dogs set up, it what they are.

 

[Maryr1]

I have lots of experience introducing new dogs into "packs". Your situation has lots of potential for a happy outcome! When I bring a new dog in I take away ALL the toys, bones, stuffies etc. and let them come out only when there is supervision. When I am not home and the dogs are crated I put a bone or toy in with them but when I get home I remove the toys and bring them out only for organized play. Once they learn to play with supervision and are good companion players I allow the toys to be left out unsupervised. I NEVER leave bones out when we are not home. Too often they can become a flash point! As for walking on leads, I like the lead that fastens in front of the dog. (Easy walk harness). They really work well. I also feed in the crates. No food guarding occurs. To facilitate weight loss, I actually went to a Rx food. You can stretch it with carrots or string beans. Remember you are the alpha-maintain that. 10 minutes of separate training a day-sit, stay, come. Easy stuff. ALL dogs go into a down stay while food is prepared and placed in the crates. All dogs go into a sit stay when meals are served to humans. When we are out for a walk my dogs are put into a down stay when another dog approaches or walks past us. Same with children. Lots of rewards (carrots or apples) and praise. You can make this work! My dogs are now best friends and awesome together! Good luck!

 

[Tiggeroo]

My first corgi had serious aggression issues. They came on suddenly. But he developed other symptoms and it was determined he had a neurological issue. My current corgi is well behaved amd socialized. However, he has not had to share space. I have kept his routine as close to normal as possible. They do eat in separate rooms. The new addition is very calm and easy going. However, it is possible that may change as he gets more comfortable. These problems are really not severe. I just don't want to make any missteps. I would like them to eventually be able to play together. When I am not supervising all toys are put away. If I introduce a ball it is one I purchased after adding the second door. I will be purchasing new collars this week amd working on leash skills individually so amy advice on this purchase would be appreciated. In my experience harnesses that clip underneath are bad for corgis. I only have 8 weeks of school left amd then I will have more time to seriously focus on this. However I do work with them e ery day. I especially make a point to include a good deal of exercise so that they have less energy for other things. Also weight loss is crucial for the one dog.

 

[Neesy228]

We have a corgi and have been contemplating a second corgi as well, so your post hit close to home. It really sounds like things are going okay. I think of it like having a new baby. You have to help the whole family adapt to the changes, but it's all a little nuts at first!

It sounds like both dogs are male? From what I understand about corgi's, that is the easiest pairing. It's also good that they're close in age. I would expect some small battles over dominance, but as long as they don't get out of hand, I would let them work it out on their own.

When we first brought our corgi home we spent weeks working on leash skills. I would walk with him, then stop if he got too far ahead or if he barked at another person/dog. When I saw another dog approaching, I would make him sit and stay until they passed. Then I would offer a small treat. It just took a lot of patience and small treats! Even now, he prefers to wander and sniff than to actually walk, but he doesn't pull and doesn't bark at any thing that passes by. I'll take it.

We moved to a grain free diet when our pup started to gain too much weight and he has done really well. We've used Wellness Core for the past two years.

Corgi's are such smart dogs, so I'm sure that you'll see quick progress (especially if you use food rewards since they're little chow hounds!)
I hope it goes well for you and you're able to create a great playmate pair! I'm a little jealous! I always say that I'd love a "gaggle of corgi's" since they're so awesome!

 

[Tiggeroo]

Yes I was told that male pairs are best also. The way you describe is how they both normally walk but with two it's a problem. I really want to teach leash commands. However, they are also both barking and tugging at other dogs about half the time. This morning I went out with tiny treats ti work on it. When they have a little battle I'm not sure when to interfere. It hasn't gotten bad but I'm afraid it could quickly. My dog has been on wellness core wight control in the past amd also arcana or orjen. I am dropping the bet food and going grain free but for them that means a pretty small serving which gets tough.

 

[Pea-n-Me]

It absolutely can get bad quickly, especially if there are food aggression issues and treats are involved - while they're in aggressive mode barking at others. I would suggest skipping the treats for now and working on just walking them a little at a time or individually until they're under your control.

Also, please try to avoid battles. Someone will get hurt and the new dog will find himself out of a home once again. You have to be really smart here. Don't just let them work it out themselves - it has to be directed by you very carefully.

 

[Luvchefmic]

I agree there have been a few statements here that had the hairs on the back of my neck standing up. No you don't expect small battles over dominance issues...EVER. You don't let them " work it out " amongst themselves. Someone else said there is always a dominate dog, NO I don't buy into that either: there is always an Alpha and that is the human that takes on the role of being in charge.

Maryr1 had the best advice all summed up rather nicely. One other thing, you have to be very careful switching the food, this is not an overnight thing and has to be done gradually.

 

[Tiggeroo]

I am transitioning the food slowly. The new dog has already had a bit of stomach trouble. Maryr1's advice mirrors what I am doing. However, I was allowing them a few moments to sort things out before I intervene. I felt slightly uncomfortable with this but believed it was the best thing to do. I will stop this. I do not at this time see either dog as dominant, however the first dog does seem to feel a need to assert his place of importance to myself and dh. He wishes to be greeted first. I only take toys out when I am in control and if it goes poorly they are put away. I just was wondering if there was a way to speed that transition.

 

[Luvchefmic]

I think it is wonderful that you are open to opinions . I salute you for being a responsible owner and taking things into your hands to have a stable household with these dogs. Every human in your house has to be on board with what you do. Consistency is absolute key to success.

I have to tell you, in a perfect world all animals would get along, never have issues, and there would be nothing to be super careful about. No way to speed up the transition. To this day I have 2 females that I would NEVER trust to be alone with each other. They tolerate each other at best. When I am in the house one is in the front yard and one is on the back deck. Can't make them love each other that is for sure.

Now as far as greeting the first dog first, I honestly don't know if that would be the right thing to do BUT have to admit this is what I do. Our oldest is going to be 16 in Sept. awesome for a female Pointer. She gets the respect she deserves. She is leader of the pack directly after me. She enters the house, or goes out the door, after me. She gets her food first before the others. Everyone has their own crate ( we have 7 dogs here ) they sleep in there, or go there to get away from each other. I feed them outside but they are all made to wait their turn and sit stay, right paw, left paw, wait, okay. It took time.