Pet Forums 2000

We have 2 chocolate labradors with excellent temperaments. One is chilled and laid back, the other is loyal. It's hard to see which of those is dominant. it's probably my dad! The dog my parents have seen is 4 years old, she was a gun dog and then used for breeding. she'll be spayed before we get her. I've not seen her but my dad said she got on with the two labs, but that was an initial visit. I've been reading a little bit about them and it says they can be a dominant breed. could this cause problems with the two dogs we already have?
We also have a cat, she managed when we got our puppy, and they get on ok, but how will a 4 year old dog and the cat get on :-/ any info would be great guys. give me your experiences.

thanks :)

I'd ask :

Are your two dogs ok with other dogs (not including each other)?

Is the new dog good with cats? Its not a puppy, so if its not socialized to get along with cats properly, that might be a problem.

Either case...keep all animals very very well supervised until you are completely sure that everyone gets along.

Chances are she will fit in perfectly! And although you will notice the different fur texture, it isn't something that will put her down against the other two.

Chesapeakes have a wonderful temperament, very similar to Labby itself....and if in the past, she were a gun dog, loyalty as well as a "soft mouth" will be present. As long as you put in the effort to play and include her amongst the others, she should be fine :)

Well, i personally would have them meet more than once and initially get the Chesapeake on a trial basis.

After 2 weeks as a family you will discuss how well you think the new dog is fitting in, and you all have to be siding with your current dogs. No bleeding hearts for the new dog. If it is causing any trouble - it goes.

Have another review in another 2 weeks.

If it is still all clear then you keep the dog and any future issues that might arise are dealt with without getting rid of the dog.

You won't really know until you try because all situation like this turn out differently and it's completely random which outcome you end up with.

Try not to get too involved though if your dad is insisting on taking charge - it really isn't your responsibility.

Pickle, I like the look of a chesapeake bay retriever. They are so cute.