I think most of us have tried to keep an open mind about this but I do feel you had already made your decision before asking so not sure what this was all about really.  I would just like to point out that your pet dog has not found himself one of several by accident.  This is a concious decision you have made.

> I do wonder just how happy dogs are living in a pack (I am not sure any dog wants to be one of FOURTEEN as another poster has mentioned having)...

Depends on the breed and individual.

The poster mentioned has Hounds, which are happiest and traditionally do best in 'Packs'.

On that note we shall close :D