We are the proud and doting owners of a 14month old Ridgeback called Rodi.

We are looking for a 2nd ridgeback and my question is whether to go for a dog or a bitch?
We don't intend to breed so the only consideration is keeping some degree of order in the pack.

All advice and opinions gratefully received.

Whoops - I forgot to mention that Rodi is male.

remember if you go for a bitch to seperate them when she comes into season or get one or both spade, hope this helps

A bitch would probably be the better option, but if Rodi is entire you'll have to make arrangements to keep them completely apart for the full 3-4 weeks of her seasons.

Hi Guest,

I agree with JG ;)  A bitch is more likely to live in harmony with a male but you will have to be aware of the implications if neither is neutered - it is hard work keeping them apart for three weeks or more at a time twice yearly.

Another point is that your boy is still very much an adolescent and even if he seems to be incredibly obedient and well trained at the moment, all young males go through a frustrating "kevin stage" when hormones take over and with the best will in the world you'll probably take a few months to get him back on track when this period arrives.  Personally I would strongly advise waiting until he is at least 2 years of age and you are 100% confident that he has no training issues before introducing a second dog to your family.  Even at 2 years, he'll "go all unnecessary" when you bring him a resident friend :P so at least if he is problem free you will not have as much work to do with the puppy - if he has any irritating habits at all, you can be sure she'll pick up on them too and then it will be very hard work!

A lovely choice of breed BTW.  regards, Teri :)

Apart from the mating problems, you might also need to think about the fact that dogs tend to get dirty in the house marking his territory when there is a bitch in season, so unless you have an outdoor kennel you may have a problem.

I'd definately go for a bitch but, if you don't want to breed, have one of them neutered. If you are certain you don't want to breed, you'd be making life unnecessarily hard by trying to live with an entire male and in season bitch.

I think it also depends on your dogs own temperment aswell.You will know what he is like round other entire males....I myself have a male ridgeback and is well mannered round other boys!Being part of the ridgeback scene know plenty of people who have houses full of males all living harmoniously together(many of them being stud dogs!Rather them than me mind!!!)Perhaps before you make your choice why not contact the Ridgeback clubs and ask them for advice as most ridgeback people I know have both sexes living under the same roof.Pampered pooches that they are!They will also be able to inform you of reputable breeders who may have planned litters.Good luck.