I feel bandit needs another dog to play with. Every time we go to the park I can tell she has a blast and doesn't want to leave. I think it would do well for her to have another dog to play with. Question I have is about age difference. Bandit is 1yr 2 months.

Ami was just a little older when Josh got Archer who was 4 mos old. They have been fast friends from the beginning.

BUt....are you SURE getting a 2nd dog is the best thing for you? Each dog also needs time alone with you...

I've been thinking about it. Mixed feelings still. The puppy stages went toooo fast. I feel like another dog would do well for both of us. Bandit is very submissive with other dogs so I don't believe she would be over agrresive or try to showing extreme dominance over a new dog. Would male or female be best?

Make sure that you are comfortable with Bandit's current state of training before even considering another one. With all the issues you've had with Bandit, I'd think you may want to wait a little while longer.

Anytime she is left for more than a day at my parents, friends or kennel she comes back more mellow. Kind of like more relaxed. More obedient, more independent.
Basically more mature if that makes any sense

So basically when she gets exercised/stimulated. Which means she may not be receiving enough at home. Getting a second may help with that, or it may leave you with two understimulated dogs instead of one.