Hi,
I would like some advice please.I have a lovely 4 year old Border Terrier bitch and I have got the chance to have a Westie bitch puppy shortly.I thought it would be good company for Poppy but I have never owned 2 dogs together before and I  wondered how they would get on.I would welcome any advice before I go ahead. Thank you. Sue x

i have 2, a cocker (4 years) and a collie (5 months) they get on well together, have done since day 1. The cocker is a castrated male and the collie is a bitch (will get her speyed when she is old enough). They enjoy walks together, they don't fight over food and enjoy playing together. The collie is the boss dog but the cocker is happy with this. They get time on their own for cuddles and to play with me.

Thank you for your reply.I wondered if Poppy would be jealous if we suddenly brought a puppy into the family but it obviously wasn't the case with your dog. Love Sue x

most people i know have managed to introduce a second dog very successfully. however, do be aware that your thoughtful desire to provide poppy with a companion may not automatically be received with a proper degree of gratitude by her!

it might also be worth doing a search for similar topics because there's a wealth of discussion in the "archives".

Thanks Roz,I have been looking on the message board and have seen quite a few letters about the same thing. They are mixed with their advice and I really wondered about Border Terrier and Westies' characters and whether they would get on together but I suppose each dog is different. I also wondered if Poppy being the centre of attention for 4 years would be a problem when she has to share me with a puppy.
She's so lovely I want her to be happier not upset!
Love Sue x

Hi suepatpye,

She may feel a little put out to start, but I dare say her own inquisitivness will get the better of her, hopefully they will become lifelong friends. She should relish the company. The two breeds should get along well together and have a lot in common.

Thanks very much for your reply.I feel a lot happier now and will probably go ahead and have the puppy.Poppy's very good with other dogs so I can't see her causing trouble!
Love Sue xx

I've got a 6yr old Westie and a 6 month old Standard Poodle. My Westie had always been the only dog in the house and has adapted really well. She sulked the first night when she realised the pup staying, lol, but soon came round!
Just make sure you give your BT plenty of attention when you get the pup and show her she's not getting replaced!

Thanks very much for that. I'll make sure Poppy gets a lot of fuss and doesn't feel left out.
Love Sue xx