If you're gonna have ONE dog ...

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I had a Kat and a dog (Airdale) for 7 years (raised together). They actually hunted together. The dog loves Kats, however other kats didn't care too much for her... added another dog (George) who was 8 at the time. He knew he was second dog, by senority. He had never seen a kat before and was curious about her more than anything. They all got along fine. The Kat died after about a year and for 2 1/2 years its bin just the 2 dogs. They got along fine without any problems between the two, George slept most of the time though and didn't play very much. If I gave one a bone the other got a bone. There was never any doubt about who is Boss...

When I took them to be groomed, the groomer said that when she seperated them Misty would cry. But I never saw that, Misty is not a dog that shows a great deal of affection, but its there.

Since Monday I now only have Misty, George as you all know has departed the scene. It seems so quiet in the house. Misty follows me around more than she did before. She also seems to have lost a step..now she just seems to shuffle along instead of walking on her toes as she did before George died. So I think she really misses him. I think I will give it a coupla months to let things sort themselves out before I make the decison of getting another 2nd dog.

If U have a family with kids in the house one dog is OK, as ther is enough of companionship for the dog. If you live alone or have to leave the dog alone for long periods a second dog will keep the first company. I don't think there really is much doubt about who the pack leader is...its a matter of exerting the authority.