Contemplating getting your dog a friend but wondering if he really wants a buddy or if you just have puppy fever? Here are 10 signs that your dog may enjoy having a live-in roommate. It’s always good to ask the advice of a pet professional—vet, trainer, rescuer—before bringing another dog into your home as well.
#1 – Enjoys the Dog Park
If your dog is the life of the party at the dog park, he may enjoy having a playmate at home. However, there are some dogs that guard their “territory,” and while they are fine at the park would not want some dog following him home.
#2 – Likes to Share
A dog that shares his space well will probably be fine with a buddy and may even enjoy having someone to cuddle on his bed and share his toys. If your dog guards things like space, food, toys, etc., then a friend could complicate your life.
#3 – Bored at Home
Is your dog looking a bit heavy because he just lays around all day? A friend can help make your dog more active because they will play together when you are not available.
#4 – Enjoys Visits from Doggy Friends
When your friends bring their dogs over for visits, is your dog excited? If so, then he would probably enjoy the company of a second dog.
#5 – Constantly Wants to Play
Some dogs are non-stop and we just can’t keep up. A dog that wants to play constantly can benefit from having a friend that also wants to play. Just be sure the new dog likes to play too, otherwise he will just end up being tormented by your first dog.
#6 – Needs Confidence
It may seem strange, but a shy dog can really benefit from the right kind of roommate. Having a calm, confident dog that does not get aroused easily can help a shy dog be calmer and braver. In this case, definitely seek professional advice before getting another dog.
#7 – Recently Lost a Friend
In our own grief we sometimes forget about the dog. But if yours recently lost her roommate, she may be lonely and even depressed. Bringing home a new friend can help your dog (and you) heal.
#8 – Had a Buddy Before
Often, adopted dogs come into the shelters in pairs or even groups. If your dog was part of a pair that was split up to make them easier to adopt, he may be missing a friend. Or, if he was housed with another dog at the shelter it was probably because he was friendly. Ask the shelter if they think he would enjoy company.
Toledo, United States.
