After living alongside one dog for some time you have come to a decision to introduce a second into the family.
When you have chosen the dog, introduced him to your current pet and offered him a place in your home you will need to deal with the logistical side of bringing him into your folks. This experience will be unsettling for everyone so must be approached and carried out in a positive way.
The first and most vital thing is that your present dog must not be harmed or in jeopardy in any way. The dogs should have recently met before a home is offered. No stress should be apparent and the 1st meeting should be on neutral ground. The dogs should be observed conscientiously and their body language monitored. Positive interaction is critical between 2 dogs that are going to live together.
The nicest thing to do is take them both for a walk before bringing them into the home together. The home should have recently been prepared by the removal of any resources that could cause conflict. Food and toys should be removed from all areas initially. Depending on how well the dogs get on toys can be reintroduced very fast and subtly. It is better to have a giant choice of toys than one; a single toy can be regarded as really dear to a dog that's inclined to resource guard.
Research and preparation is how to choose a dog that will successfully become your second family pet. Observation and further research will allow you to manage a positive settling in period.
It is very important to consider your own behaviour toward the dogs. Remember that you're also considered a resource. It will be natural to worry about your existing pet but do not leave either dog out of interactions. Some new dogs benefit from being left alone to settle and join in silently, others want to engage with you. To stop tension developing it's really important that you treat both dogs, when they ask for attention, in exactly the same way.
For more great information on how to choose a dog, or If you'd like to know more about dog training in general, come visit the Dog Trick Academy.