Having two German Shepherds may sound like a great idea. Your dogs will always have a friend to play with and help run their energy out. You may wonder, though, if having two male German Shepherds in your house is a good idea and if they’ll get along.
Two male German Shepherds can get along and live in the same household. Early socialization is vital to ensure the two dogs succeed together. Neutering male German Shepherds will help subdue any aggression the dogs might have towards each other as well.
We are going to dive deep into the facts of whether two male German Shepherds can successfully get along and get expert advice on what needs to be done for male German Shepherds to live together. Ultimately, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting yourself into and be well-prepared for everything that might come your way.
Related post: Is It Better to Have Two German Shepherds?
Why do you want two German Shepherds?
The first thing you may want to consider is why you want two German Shepherds. Do you want your first dog to have a friend or do you feel more secure with a second dog?
Before looking into getting a second dog, you want to take the time to look at everything involved in getting the second German Shepherd.
Getting another German Shepherd could help reduce destructive behavior in your first dog and help with separation anxiety, which is a benefit.
How much more will a second German Shepherd Cost?
One of the biggest factors you should consider before getting a second German Shepherd is the cost. German Shepherds are not cheap dogs.
You are looking to spend between $1,800 to $3,000 on a puppy from a reputable breeder.
Also read: How Much Is A German Shepherd Puppy? (Plus Annual Expenses)
This cost does not include the additional fees for pet insurance, vet bills, pet supplies, and more.
The average price of raising one dog is between $3,000 to $3,500 annually for large breed dogs, which doesn’t include emergencies. (Source akc.org) Before getting a second dog, you need to consider if you can financially afford it.
The Temperament of Male VS Female German Shepherds
When it comes to male vs female German Shepherds, there is a difference in their temperament, which could make the difference in your decision for a second dog.
Generally, female German Shepherds are known to be friendlier and nicer around families. They have a gentle disposition and have a better tolerance for strangers.
Male German Shepherds can be more territorial and have stronger personalities, which could be both good and bad. Since males are known to be more dominant and aggressive, don’t be surprised to see them be protective over a family.
Males will also be larger, but both sexes have an intimidating bark and are athletic.
How to Introduce two male German Shepherds?
Introducing two male German Shepherds will set the tone for the rest of their relationship. You can take many steps to be successful, and the most important thing to remember is not to punish your dog.
Also read: How to Introduce a German Shepherd to Your Other Dog at Home?
The best bet for success with your two male German Shepherds is to start with a walk outside. Find neutral territory to begin your walk and give yourself and the dogs plenty of space.
You can walk the dogs toward each other and reward good behavior with treats. If you introduce the dogs at home, you still want to ensure the introduction is outdoors and periodically give the dogs a break from each other.
Remember that mild aggression and posturing can be expected until the dogs become more comfortable with each other.
Here’s a video showing how to do it properly while observing the body language of both dogs:
How to Socialize Two Male German Shepherds
Socializing your German Shepherds from an early age is key to having success. You want to expose your German Shepherd to as many things as possible, especially if they’re young. Doing this will set your dog on the right path to being well-behaved, confident, and friendly.
Related post: German Shepherd Puppy Socialization: A Beginner’s Guide
One important socialization key is introducing new things to them in the house and taking them outdoors for exposure. If they’re young, you can do this safely at a training class to help minimize the risk of disease being spread. Lowering their threat threshold is also essential when it comes to socializing, and you can do a few things to help with that, such as:
- Opening oversized items around them: Think of umbrellas, garbage bags, or large blankets, anything that makes sounds, creates shadows, and can become large. This could be frightening to a dog; the more you show it to them, the more normal it is.
- Show them strollers, scooters, or bikes: Stumbling upon larger mobile items like this on a walk could spell disaster if your German Shepherd isn’t used to them. Familiarize them around the house, so they don’t become excited or scared when one approaches them.
- Walking sticks, brooms, or mops could be toys: Your dog might love playing fetch with sticks, but that doesn’t mean all stick-like objects are you. Introduce them to what is and isn’t a fetching toy early to help minimize the threat when you take them outside.
What Age Gap Between Two Dogs Work Best?
Adding a second dog to the mix can be a lot of work, and you want to make sure you make the right call when it comes to age.
When deciding to add a second dog, you want to ensure your current pup is out of puppyhood and thoroughly trained according to the AKC. It will be more difficult getting a second German Shepherd and train two dogs at once.
Your second risk is your two dogs bonding with each other and not you, which can create a power struggle when you need to be the dominant one over the dogs. Breeders typically recommend that the first dog is one-to-two years of age before introducing a second dog to the family.
Should you get two Male German Shepherds from the same litter?
A lot can be said when considering two male German Shepherds from the same litter. As mentioned above, you want to make sure the dogs bond with you and not each other, which can be more problematic with brothers.
That said, you can certainly have two brothers from the same litter. The big piece of advice here is to ensure both dogs are neutered to help curve the aggression that could come from them. You also want to make sure you begin training early and allow the dogs to have separate, alone time. Spend individual time with each pup in order for them to bond with you and not each other.
Will two male German Shepherds fight?
There is no right or wrong answer here. Two male German Shepherds could fight but also live in harmony. It all comes down to the dog’s temperament, training, and socialization. Early intervention is vital to help prevent fighting. This means a lot of training and neutering the dogs as soon as possible.
How to Prevent Two Male German Shepherds from Fighting?
You want your German Shepherds to know you’re the boss. These dogs are super intelligent and loyal, so early training from puppyhood is an excellent place to start to help prevent fights. Give each dog equal attention and let them know you are in charge. At times you should keep the dogs in separate areas, so they’re in a controlled environment.
What to do if Two Male German Shepherds are fighting
While you might run straight into the dog fight to protect your pups, you want to ensure that everyone around is safe when a fight breaks out. Do not step between the two dogs fighting; instead, get help to perform a wheelbarrow move. By doing this, the dogs and the people involved can remain safe.
To do the wheelbarrow move, each person will grab the back legs of one dog and pull. Lift the dog’s legs off the ground to throw their balance off and separate them if you can. If you’re alone, you can use a leash to tether around one dog’s belly and attempt to separate.
Conclusion
When considering getting two male German Shepherds, there is a lot of work to be done for the entire family to be successful. Two male German Shepherds can flourish together under the same roof, but you’ll be responsible for a rocky and time-consuming road ahead as the owner. The essential items to remember are early intervention, training, socializing, and never giving up.
It might be tedious to get your male German Shepherds to get along, but at the end of the day, all the work will be worth it to have a calm and relaxed family.
Further Questions
Is having two German Shepherds a good idea?
There is nothing wrong with having two German Shepherds. Training and socializing will be a lot of work, but everyone can easily live in harmony if you’re up for the task.
Do male German Shepherds prefer one person?
German Shepherds typically attach themselves to one person and create a strong bond. That doesn’t mean they’re not perfect for families, though. Also read: Can a German Shepherd Have Two/Multiple Owners?
Are male German Shepherds protective of their owners?
Depending on the temperament of the dog, it could be possible. Their instinct is to be protective, but training can help with this.
