Australian Shepherd Puppy With 3 Year Old Aussie

Apache loves to be held like a baby!

We have a 6 month old Aussie pup. We think he needs a companion. My breeder has a three year old male that he is selling. We tried to go thru rescue groups but their lack of contact and response time is infuriating. Plus my number one goal is to ensure my dog gets along with the new dog regardless of their reference checks, house visits, etc. Seems weird to do those first if my dog doesn't like the other dog.

Anyhow, is the age difference too much? They will both be males. I think the energy level would still be high at 3 but obviously not puppy level high.

Also, our puppy is in a crate at night and when we are away. We plan to leave him lose around a year or whenever he slows down destroying things.

For a new dog, should we crate also? Seems unfair for a new dog to be lose while he is crated. And crating the new dog could help them adjust to the new home environment, that's my thought at least.

Thanks guys in advance!!!

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