Should I get another Dog?

Ready for a second dog?

 

Most people want another dog as a companion for their first dog, but be aware that some complications may arise.  If your dog suffers from separation anxiety, a second dog is not the cure as the new dog may develop this problem too.  If your first dog is untrained, the second dog will learn the bad habits faster than good ones.  There is also chance that the pair will develop their own sub-pack and pay less attention to you. 

 

Be prepared to double dog expenses (food, training, grooming, boarding, vet bills), to schedule more time for training and walks, and to pick up more poop.  On the bright side, a new dog can spark new life into an older dog and provide companionship and entertainment for everyone.     

 

Dog selection and pack management are critical for a creating a harmonious dog household.  A good dog leader can handle many dogs, but a poor manager will have trouble with one dog should not get a second.  The tips below will help make your multiple dog household run smoother: 

 

1. Wait until your first dog is mentally and sexually mature (18 months to 3 years).
2. Train your first dog.  She/he will help raise and train a new puppy.
3. Cross sex.  If you have a female, get a male.  If you have a male, you can get a male or a female.  Most people assume that the male rules the pack, but research shows the opposite is true.  Females are willing to fight harder to establish a dominant position.  85% of my dog-to-dog issues deal with pack dissention between females.  You, should hold the leadership role, so no matter how you combine sexes, your dogs will look to you for leadership, not each other. 
4. Avoid getting littermates, because this creates dependency and anxiety issues.  One pup develops normally, but the other becomes overly dependent and when separated, one or both will suffer from severe separation anxiety. 
5. If you get littermates, use 2 crates, train, walk, socialize separately, and give them separate playtime, in addition to the time they spend together.  This will allow them to develop confidence and personalities independent of each other.  This should be done for their first year.
6. Introduce the new dog on neutral territory.  Keep the older dog on a leash initially so you can control his response to a puppy.  Once an older dog has accepted a new puppy, you should be able to let them sort their own relationship out without any interference.  Consult a professional if your older dog will not accept a puppy. 
7. Size does not matter.  An adult, large dog perceives a small dog as a puppy and will be very gentle.  Do don't be afraid to get a small breed, they think they are big. 

 

There are always exceptions to the advice above.  Use logic and do some research before deciding what dog to introduce to your house.  Talk to your Vet, trainer, breeder, or groomer for an insight on the issue. 

 

2008 Written by Susan Jakobs:  Owner of Midwest Canine Academy, Member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers.  Visit www.dogbuilders.com.