Souraya I can totally relate to your concerns. All my life I have had two dogs at a time. I have always enjoyed watching the interaction between two dogs and do very much feel that a dog is probably happier with a playmate. Bella has been my only single dog, but of course that recently changed.

I knew in my heart I wanted a sibling for Bella almost from Day One but wanted to be very careful about who I chose. I had in the back of my mind that I would go with a puppy mainly because it would be easier on my cats to get to know a puppy rather than an older dog who might have a bad 'cat history.' The plan was to look at pug puppies this spring. (I have been strongly drawn to pugs for several years now and know their temperament is delightful). Well as you know, that was all thrown out the window when I adopted Ripley (not a pug, not a puppy) last Thursday. Sometimes our best laid plans......

First of all, I do believe you have plenty of love in your heart for Doggie #2 whoever that may be. I also believe that a female puppy would probably be ideal, and maybe one who will not grow to be quite as large as Drake. I know you are an extremely responsible pet owner and by even starting this thread I know you are putting lots and lots of thought into it so I am sure your search for a playmate for Drake will ultimately be made carefully. I have no doubt that you will be able to make this work and I would love to meet this new little one whenever you open up your home to another little love. Oh, one last thing.....Drake will love you just as much as always. Sometimes I think people hold off on that decision because they worry their present dog/cat will bond with the new furkid and their relationship with them will change. In all of my years with animals (and they are many ) the first animal remains a constant companion and friend and nothing changes. Lots of luck to you in that search whenever you begin it!