Is it better to have one or two dogs?
By nature, dogs are social and thrive in group environments. Therefore, there are many advantages to adopting a second dog, such as:
- They can keep each other company
- Both dogs will be able to entertain each other and get exercise together
- Your older dog could help you train a new puppy
- When the dogs have each other, it can help ease separation anxiety
- You will have two adorable dogs to love
The Consequences of Adding a Second Dog to Your Home
Getting a second dog may cause your first dog to feel displaced and uncertain. While most dogs get along with their new sibling, your first dog may be unhappy about having to share their toys, space, territory, or even their owner's affection. When preparing to bring home a second dog, it is critical to plan ahead of time and conduct thorough research.
The Kind of Dog You Should Get
When getting a new puppy, it's critical to consider which breed will be best for your current dog and your family's needs. For this reason, you must ensure that you are doing more than simply checking off a few mental boxes. You must consider factors such as:
- What size of dog will work best for you and your family?
- Can your home fit a second dog?
- Will you have time to play with and care for another dog?
- What are the exercise needs of your old dog and new dog?
- Can you afford to take care of a second dog?
- Will your current dog be able to interact with a puppy, or will an older more calm dog be best?
By taking these points into consideration, you should be able to find a dog that will be a perfect addition to your family or determine if you are ready for a second dog.
Ways to Help Your Old Dog and New Dog Get Along
If you have decided that it's time to get a second dog, there are some measures you can implement to make the process easier for everyone and help your two dogs get along as well as possible.
Talk to Your Family First
Deciding to bring home a new dog should take time, and it's best to consult with everyone in your household to see if it meets everyone's needs, including your dog's! When deciding whether to get a new pet, think about your current dog's age, physical ability, and personality.
Don't Take Your Current Dog With You
We do not recommend bringing your current dog with you when choosing your new furry companion. Your dog may distract you while you are trying to make a decision, and the car ride may become very intense.
Introduce Your Dogs on Neutral Grounds
When it's time for your two dogs to meet, take them somewhere neutral to prevent territorial aggression. You could ask a friend or family member to take your current dog to a quiet park or green space, where you can introduce them to your new puppy. If you already have more than one dog, you'll need extra help or be able to keep them all on leashes.
Keep Your Dogs Under control
While keeping full control of the dogs, make sure you are holding them loose enough on their leash that they don't feel too hampered by it.
Let the Dogs Get to Know Each Other
When dogs meet, they usually circle and sniff one another. Maintain a positive tone throughout the meeting. Keep an eye out for aggressive behaviors and, if necessary, redirect their attention. If the dogs start growling or snarling, don't scold them; this will only teach them to suppress their emotions when you're nearby. You want them to create a fair, safe social hierarchy even when you're not there.
Are your dogs ignoring each other? This is fine, don't force them to interact because they will get to know each other when they are ready.
Bring Your Pups Home
You can bring your dogs home when they start acting positively with each other.
Keep in mind that the two dogs will form a hierarchy, with the first dog usually serving as alpha. As a result, bring your current dog into the house first, and have someone help you walk your new dog on a leash. This allows your original dog to welcome your new puppy into their domain.
Limit Opportunities for Rivalry
Make sure each dog has their own food dish, water bowl, and bed. After mealtimes, pick up the food bowls to reduce the risk of food aggression. You can leave the water bowls out.
Remember to pick up your first dog's favorite toys and items to avoid conflict as the new relationship develops. Once you are certain that the dogs are getting along, you may return their favorite toys.
Remember to Supervise Playtime
When you are not at home, we strongly advise keeping both dogs separated. When it's time for them to play together, keep an eye on them. Don't forget to praise them when they work well together.
It's imperative that you find time to spend quality one-on-one time with each dog every day so you can cement the personal bond you have with them
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.