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As I am thinking it might help me move on from the loss of my dog Molly, to get another dog,I am wondering if I should consider a male dog
for the first time. We have always had females but some one said dogs can be really affectionate, perhaps more so than females. I was wondering if I could get some advice from owners who have had both.
It seems a shame to have a closed mind to having a male without any facts. Thanks Jane

So sorry for your loss, I recently lost my Kendall who was almost 16. I would have gotten another but have 2 shih tzus still that are almost 11.I have had dogs all my married life. From sooner dogs to dobermans, to now shih tzus. Have had both male and female of just about all of my dogs. Most of the time males show more of a need to be close and have followed me around and wanted to be closer. As the females age they have a tendency to be closer to us. But really it depends on the dog and their age we have seen in our 40 plus years of marriage and dog ownership. Wishing you the best in making a decision. I do agree that getting another dog will help fill that void in you life and your heart. I know I will get another or 2 when my 2 shih tzus pass.

Thank you very much for your reply. I never thought male dogs could be as affectionate as bitchs, or perhaps even more so. I really hope a new addition to our family will help the deep sadness I feel. I am sorry Your dog Kendall recently died, its seems to help if there are other dogs in the home, there is not that emptiness. Perhaps I will get two! Thanks once again. Jane

Jane I am so sorry you are going through this very rough time. All of us share the pain you are going through. I lost my once in a lifetime dog. her name was Katie. The pain is still here but I knew I could not be without a dog. They become my children and make life better. I have had both male and female dogs. They were all loving and my dogs. My husband al ways tells me the dogs are always yours. I think it is the bond you form with them from the time you get them. I loved all my dogs and I did get a new pup after Katie passed. Her name is Hannah. Yes I got a female again. In my experience I could bond more easily with my girls. But every dog is different. I do believe how you raise them makes the dog that they become. You have found a wonderful place with the Ralph site. They helped me so much when Katie died. I made many very dear friends. I love them all. We are always here when you need someone.Feel free to message me if you need to talk. I hope you find that special dog to fill your heart. Doesn't matter male/female. Love the new one best of luck finding the right one

Thanks Barbara for you heartfelt reply. I am glad Hannah has brought you joy, after losing your heart dog Katie.I have been devastated by grief. I loved and needed Molly and although I have an understanding husband, and two wonderful grandchildren who come to stay, find very little pleasure in everyday life. We did everything with molly in mind and built our days around what would please her. My husband says a light has gone out of our lives and it is true. I hope getting another dog will help the process. How long did you wait to get Hannah, and have you just got the one? I think from the sound of it, both sexes have pretty much equal merit in terms of love and companionship. So that is interesting and useful to know. Thanks for taking the time to help me, you are right people on this site are so loving and supportive. It does make a difference to know that others know just what you are going through. Take care Jane

You are so welcome Jane.What you told me about what you are going through after losing Molly, I can relate so much . My life now is empty she wqs truly a part of me, loved as a child. We got Katie a week after our Tessie died back in 2010. I didn't think I could do it but I realized I couldn't live without a dog. Katie and Tessie both were amazing dogs. German shepherds and so loyal when Katie past last year We again waited a week and found our Hannah. She is also a German Shepherd. and as year old she is full of adventure and play. Always on a mission. For this reason we got one puppy I found with a solo dog they are much more attached to you. We have had mutiple dogs before but after Tessie and Katie I saw a difference in the human/pet connection was different. Hannah is able to put a smile on my face again and that is not easy without my Katie girl. Hannah gives me love and a reason for getting up in the morning.At first I felt bad but I knew Katie would want me to get a pup to help me heal just as she did for me when Tessie died. I wish you the best on this journey you are thinking about. There is a puppy waiting for you and he/she will put a smile back on your face. Take care keep me posted you can find me on Facebook Barbara Nunnemacher and if you have messenger you can send me a message if you ever need to talk or have a question. I'm here if you need me for anything. Barbara

Thanks Barbara, you must be such a kind person, to be so caring to me. I know I am looking for Molly when I search. I am not sure I will get another Tibetan Terrier in case I just wish it was my Molly. I think in many way pet owners are united in a sort of merry go round of feeling and receiving the deepest love and then experiencing the deepest grief.It gives us quite a bond which is pretty unique. Is there no end to the benefits our beloved pets give us. Thanks once again. Will keep you posted and let you know when I get a new canine companion. Jane x