You often hear people saying they want to get a second dog because “we think our other dog is lonely,” “the kids want a puppy,” “our other dog is old and we want to get a younger dog,” and a host of other reasons.
Most of the time, however, these reasons stem from what the people in the house are feeling or thinking. It’s definitely an emotional decision, especially if part of the reason is because your current dog is getting older and you are facing the anxiety of having a dog-free home soon.
Pros to a Second Dog
Bringing in a second dog can be great…
- Your dog now has a constant companion, playmate, and friend for when you are gone
- More love for you, and no one can have too much love
- Older dog’s often help “raise” younger dogs, helping you with socialization and manners
- As your other dog ages and passes, you will still have a warm, furry body to comfort you
…or it can cause more problems than you could possibly imagine, ending in heartache when a decision to give up/back the new dog has to be made.
To avoid this tragedy, you need to sit down, emotions aside, and make a rationale decision based on your current dog and situation.
Your Current Dog is First
It sounds archaic, but think of yourself as the King and your current dog as the Crown Prince – heir to the throne. First and foremost you must think about your current dog and their needs and want
Does your current dog even like other dogs?
This is really the first and most important question you need to ask yourself. If not, then you can just stop right here. You cannot get another dog while your current dog is still living. It wouldn’t be fair to him. And clearly your argument that he is lonely is not true, because he does not want companionship from another dog.
Iff you have to bring in another dog (say a family member is moving into your house and they have a dog), then you need to contact a certified dog trainer to help you BEFORE the new dog comes.
Is your current dog ill or disabled?
If so, bringing home an unruly puppy that is going to bite, grab, run into, and pester your older dog may be cruel punishment. A dog with severe arthritis does not want a puppy trampling him.
Do you have time to give him the attention he deserves if you bring home someone new?
Can you afford whatever expenses your aging dog will have (vet bills, medicines, etc) if you bring home a new dog?
Are You Prepared?
Next, you need to ask yourself these questions.
Do you have the money for twice the expenses?
Twice the dog food, twice the vet bills, twice the dog treats, twice the toys, etc. Be sure two dogs fits into your budget.
Do you have the time for another dog?
Just because you have two dogs, does not mean you will not have to exercise or play with them anymore. They still need exercise and play with you (together and separately).
Do you have time to train two dogs?
For best results, you will have to train them separately at first, so that means you just doubled the amount of training you need to – make sure you (and your family members) are ready.
Do you have time for twice the clean-up?
The Decision
If you decide yes, work with a rescue, shelter, or breeder that will allow you to bring your current dog with you. It’s sometimes easier on dogs if they meet in a neutral environment. Obviously, if you are bringing home an 8 week old puppy this won’t be appropriate, but if you are adopting an older dog this is a great way to see what they think of each other. In addition, the group you work with should allow for a “trial period” in case things don’t work out.
Ask your trainer before you bring in the new dog for tips on how to make the introduction go smoothly. They can suggest ways to help your new dog adjust and avoid any altercations.
About the Author
Based in Wilsonville, Ore., animal lover Kristina N. Lotz is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer – Knowledge Assessed (CPDT-KA) and works as a full time trainer. She is the founder of, A Fairytail House, a unique all-positive all-sport dog training facility that helps rescue dogs in her area and provides free seminars and training classes for the community. In her spare time, she trains and competes in herding, agility, obedience, rally, and conformation with her Shetland Sheepdogs. She smartly married a Veterinary Technician, who helps keep the fur kids happy and healthy, and provides a quick resource for articles.
Toledo, United States.
