After living with one dog for a while you have come to a decision to introduce a second into the family.
When you have selected the dog, introduced him to your existing pet and offered him a place in your home you will need to deal with the logistical side of bringing him into your folks. This experience will be perturbing for everybody so must be approached and carried out in a positive way.
The first and most important thing is that your present dog must not be hurt or at risk in any way. The dogs should have just met before a home is offered. No strain should be apparent and the 1st meeting should be on neutral ground. The dogs should be observed meticulously and their body language monitored. Positive interaction is important between two dogs that are going to live together.
The best thing to do is take them both for a walk before bringing them into the home together. The home should have already been prepared by the removal of any resources that might cause conflict. Food and toys should be removed from all areas initially. Dependent on how well the dogs get on toys can be reintroduced very swiftly and discreetly. It's miles better to have a massive selection of toys than one; a single toy can be thought of as very valuable to a dog that is inclined to resource guard.
Research and preparation is how to choose a dog which will successfully become your second family pet. Observation and further research will allow you to manage a positive settling in period.
It is important to consider your own behaviour toward the dogs. Remember that you're also considered a resource. It is going to be natural to stress about your existing pet but don't leave either dog out of interactions. Some new dogs benefit from being left alone to settle and join in quietly, others need to interact with you. To stop tension developing it is important that you treat both dogs, when they ask for attention, in the same way.
For more great information on how to choose a dog, or if you want to learn more about dog training generally, please visit the Dog Trick Academy.