We're thinking about getting 2 miniature Schnauzer puppies, both boys so we're fretting over having 2 male pups with out other dog. Any thoughts?

I have been reading many of your responses to questions about raising 2 puppies at once, and still have some outstanding concerns about my own situation before committing to adopting a couple of new family members.

Up until a couple of months ago, I had 2 miniature schnauzers, Basil (13 years old) and Oscar (8 years old). Oscar succumbed to a rapid cancer a couple of months ago and passed away peacefully thanks to our loving vets.

Basil was raised from a puppy with our previous mini schnauzer Nelson, who died when Basil was 5 years old. Basil, being the emotional little dog, suffered greatly from the loss of his older friend Nelson, so we quickly got Oscar. The addition of the puppy Oscar changed Basil's temperament from a frisky and playful young dog to a wise and gentle older 'sibling' for Oscar.

With the loss of Oscar, Basil is once again 'lost'. He was already quite senile in his old age, forgetting where he is at times, and now his whole life revolves around finding a family member and following them around.

We have been discussing the possibility of getting 2 miniature schnauzer puppies from a lovely local breeder. The litter is all boys, so I have been fretting over the implications of having 2 male puppies along with Basil.

The additional care and attention has never been an issue. Our dogs are are lives and we give up as much time is necessary to ensure our dogs are properly socialized and never go without attention.

Would having Basil, an older, gentle, yet dominant influence guide the development of 2 puppies, or would we face the same issues you discuss about raising 2 puppies.

When Basil eventually passes away, would the "power vacuum" cause problems in fighting for dominance? Or is it likely that they will find an order amongst themselves within the current structure, having Basil as a superior figure and ourselves as their leaders?

Your take on this matter would be hugely appreciated. It has been a terrible time for our family, yet is also a new chapter, and we are lucky enough to have such a complex dog such as Basil, who has happily adopted both subordinate roles and then a parental figure to Oscar when he was needed.

Many thanks,
Ed
Perth, Australia.

It sounds like wise advice. I think we'll end up taking your advice and getting one pup.

I really appreciate your reply and the great work you do through your website. I'm sure there are so many others out there who are as grateful as I am for your support.

Ed