We have been considering getting our 4 year old Male Siberian Husky/Alaskan Malamute a playmate for 3 years now.

Would love some advice from other dog owners who have introduced a new dog/puppy to their family, and whether it is best to get a dog or a bitch. Pros and cons would be greatly appreciated especially from Husky owners.

Thanks in advance

Rachel
x

there is a saying along the lines of "a dog and a bitch will never fight, a dog and a dog will sometimes fight, a bitch and a bitch will always fight". some would advise on a bitch pup but then you have to be careful of accidents. also, with a bitch your dog may become aggressive towards other males as he feels that the bitch belongs to him.
personally, our dogs have got on well together, 2 entire boys and touch wood, never had much of a squabble. has your boy had the snip, or is he all man... this could affect your decision?

Hi Tanya,

Thanks for replying.

He is a full male, we have never felt the need to get him casterated, he is really calm, and doesn't run away as he is always on a long training lead.

Rachel
x

I'm in much the same boat although my girl is only 18 months old. She's Saarloos x northern inuit (I know some people will not class either of these as 'breeds' but she's a light 'husky like' dog). Her breeder, who we've stayed in touch with has been in touch as he's running down his pack and he's offered us a male of around the same age as he reminds him so much of our bitch - soft, well behaved, calm etc - and he likes the life that Zaska has but feels she's missing out on company.

I'm in 2 minds as it's a huge commitment but the breeder says he will support us in any way possible with advice, boarding with him if we ever went somewhere they couldn't go etc. It's tempting but I'm trying to be sensible!

personally, id advise on another male, but each to their own. unless your neighbours have a bitch, then i would say get a bitch, as 2 males would be likely to squabble if a bitch next door comes into season. just my personal opinion, but you have to weigh up the risks of accidental pregnancy/ separation every season vs risks of squabbles over near by girls. a young puppy would be better than an older rescue as your grown up boy would be less likely to feel threatened by a pup and a pecking order will be established much easier.

HTH a little, but plenty of other people on here are probably likely to know more than me lol :-D