BREED COMPATIBILITY

If you are looking at getting another dog and either one of them is a cross-breed, do have this simple DNA test done. Once you know what the breed make up is, not only will it give you a good idea if the dogs will be compatible, there are further benefits. You will see if any possible genetic and health problems common to the breed - get a much better idea of what the dog was bred for, and how to satisfy its natural tendencies. Plus gives you a good idea of exercise requirements and possible behaviour concerns common to the breed. Test can be done in comfort of your own home, and very simple to do. www.muttmix.co.za

BREED COMPATIBILITY MATCH GUIDE

Will Fido get along with Lassie ?

Click on the breed name to find out !

After much research and debate we have taken the 58 most popular breeds in South Africa and created a guideline as to the best and worst choices for adding an additional dog to your family - this list kindly supplied by the ABC of SA - Animal Behaviour Consultants of SA. We hope that you find it helpful!

Unless you really want a particular breed, please do consider adopting from shelters - there are just so many dogs that need homes. If getting from a breeder, please read our article to help you avoid puppy farmers.

PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS LIST IS MEANT TO BE A GUIDELINE ONLY AS EACH DOG IS UNIQUE AND BREED IS ONLY ONE INDICATOR OF TEMPERAMENT, WITH MANY OTHER FACTORS PLAYING A ROLE. IT IS BASED ON OUR EXPERIENCE AND RESEARCH AND IS NOT EXHAUSTIVE.

Points to bear in mind!

If your existing dog is not sociable, please consider leaving it as an 'only' dog, or get professional advice.
Any of the fighting breeds should always be 'only' dogs. These dogs are devoted to their owners, and the chances of serious problems developing in future is high.
Aim for dogs of opposite sex - best chances of success.
Your existing dog and new addition should be sterilized. To have one or both dogs intact, is more likely to lead to reactive behaviour.
Never get two pups from same litter, or close together in age. the pups will tend to bond more with one another than family - one pup will be more forceful, resulting the the other pup never growing to full potential - as they bond together so much, problems can result if dogs separated.
Never have two females together, regardless of the age, this is trouble looking for a place to happen!
All introductions to new addition should be done on neutral territory and before you make the final commitment to purchasing a new dog. Prevention is better than cure.
With cross breeds, look at each breed.

BEST OPTION :Male & Female 2nd BEST OPTION :Male & Male WORST OPTION : Two Females

All of the fighting breeds are better as 'only' dogs, as they are bred to be very close to their owners, and don't appreciate competition from other dogs in the home environment. Often things go well for a few weeks/months and then fighting will start. All pups should receive socialization from about 10 weeks of age, and preferable, further socialization, to put in place a solid social foundation, especially so, any of the fighting breeds, and just as important for the 'little one's!'

Alaskan Malamute

Airedale Terrier

American Cocker Spaniel.

American Staffordshire Terrier

Basenji

Bassett

Beagle .

Boerboel.

Border Collie

Boston Terrier.

Bouvier

Boxer.