Keeping 2 dogs in a household situation presents problems not generally encountered by the single-dog owner. Add more dogs into the mix and you have a potential recipe for disaster. When those dogs are Entire (breeding-capable), that PFD (Potential For Disaster) multiplies exponentially.
This blog is an ad hoc collection of problems, solutions that have worked (or not worked) for me and a few ramblings on the pack dynamics encountered and observed over the years.
I invite you to add and comment (please keep the nastiness to a minimum because, yes, I've most likely suffered through the most horrific stuff-ups already so the negativity won't be constructive).
Keeping dogs as household members is truly rewarding and One is NEVER alone.
The overriding thing I've learnt and try always to keep at the forefront of awareness is:
1 dog is a mate.... 2 dogs (plus), are a pack!
Adding older, breeding age dogs. Don't.. just don't. Unless you have kennels and are prepared to always keep the dogs separate, Just DON'T!
Adding dogs into the mix. Outside dogs.. neutred and socialized - cautiously optimistic. Introduce to the dominant female separaly and away from home on neutral ground. Then repeat with stud male. Then introduce the rest of the pack in same neutral area. When intoducing dogs, try to have them off-leash and remove self from immediate vicinity so as to remove "posessiveness". Once acclimated, pick up your feet and run! Past the group, calling as you do so.. stop, turn, call for Halt, Stay. Clip on leads and walk calmly home. For next few weeks, do not be seen to favor the Newcomer. Give all your reassuring pats and hugs to "Newie" AWAY from and out of sight of group.