I am about to move into a rental home. The people originally did not want pets but they did agree to allow us to have my puppy and my roomates 2 cats. My dog is about 15 months old he and we would like to add another dog to our family. My puppy is at the age where he will still accept a new family member but not for too much longer. I feel that we need to get the second dog soon, but how do I ask my landlords if that is okay by them. What is the 'right' way to ask that question.
Obviously if they agreed I would get it in writing but I have to ask first, secondly, I have a chihuahua he will not take to sharing for very much longer (so yes it does matter his age) (we are currently dog sitting and he growls at the puppies if they are on my lap or playing with his toys, he displays only child paterns like that of a human)
chats...would you honestly have a perminate dislike for a renter because they asked a question that you can simply say no to? Anyway we told them upfront that we would not move without our pets and if that didn't work for them we understand 100%...my parents are renters and I am certainly glad they are so cold (I mean wow one question would turn you off from a person that easily)

I have introduced new members to my four footed family at all ages, it doesn't have anything to do with the age of the dog.

Since the landlord didn't want pets to begin with, don't be surprised if the response is no. You should probably show a pattern of responsible dog ownership before you start testing the limits of their generosity.

You DON'T!
IF I were your landlord, I'd be very upset with you asking and feel like he's given in to you on allowing a puppy and 2 cats when he wanted NO pets. The old give them an inch and they take a mile adage applies to you. I wouldn't ask, and under no conditions would I agree as a landlord. You risk alienating a new landlord.

You're crazy if you think it matters how old the dog is when you get another dog. I had a chihuahua for a long time, we didn't get a second dog in our home until she was over 4 years old and we never had a problem. You need to introduce them right and as long as you are the pack leader and they are both followers, then you will not have a problem. You just have to be in control.

As for asking the landlord the "right way" just call them up and say "Since we already have two cats and a dog we thought we would really like our puppy to have another dog as a companion, we don't want her to get lonely. Is that alright with you? "

If you already have 3 animals I'm sure a 4th won't make a difference.