Seasoned dog owners might feel like they have been through it all with one pup, and thus, that they can tackle any challenge that comes their way. Don't let that fool you. Experience with one dog at a time is much different than juggling two or more. That being said, how do you know when the time is right to add a second pup to the family? Is it even a good idea to do so?
Two dogs is more than just twice the responsibility--it is twice the unpredictability
With two or more dogs, the increased workload is more about who is responsible for what and when. The things you can plan for are only part of the equation. Being a dog owner comes down to more than just daily responsibilities. As with any living thing, a dog may suddenly face a costly and unpredictable medical emergency.
When you have multiple dogs, there are multiple opportunities to end up faced with an unplanned vet bill. If you suddenly find yourself in a disaster scenario, such as a hurricane, you need to plan evacuation with not just one dog but multiples. Undertaking the decision to bring in additional dogs means not just planning for who takes care of them, but what happens for the entire family when something goes wrong.
However, don't discount the level of responsibility
Making time for--and having money to spend on--another dog is more than some pet owners plan on. Thus, the potential for getting overwhelmed is high. Depending on the new addition, it may take more than doubling everything your existing dog requires. Some dogs have higher needs, and this will be variable based on the age, breed, upkeep, and behaviors of the new dog. Make sure that you have the time, energy, support, and money necessary before bringing home a new pup.
Take into account how your existing dog will react
A major mistake that new owners make is assuming that their well-behaved, level-headed dog won't exhibit any challenging behaviors when they bring home another dog. This misconception may cause problems. Even the best-behaved dog may react with jealousy when another canine comes into their territory, and this is especially true if the new dog comes with existing behavioral problems. Aggression, inappropriate elimination, and refusal to listen to commands may be a few of the most common behaviors a dog might exhibit when a new pet comes home. To combat these problems, have a plan in place for how you will introduce the new dog, and what you will do if things don't work out.
Of course, there are upsides
Two dogs can keep one another company, provide hours of mental stimulation, and be a constant play buddy. With high energy breeds, the availability of a constant play partner will help keep each dog busy. For old dogs, a younger pup might help to keep them spry and moving around. If either dog experiences separation anxiety, having a buddy might help to reduce the nervousness and keep them each from feeling alone.
There are many good reasons and bad reasons to bring home another dog. However, with the right intentions, plenty of planning, and making changes gradually instead of fast, a second dog might be the perfect addition.
This article was written by K Howard for Top Gun Dog Training.
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