Should I Get a Second Dog?

It’s funny how for some people, having one dog just isn't enough!

These friendly, loyal companions have a special way of entering into our hearts and filling us with joy, to the point that we want to double that with another dog. Surely owning two dogs is better than one, right?

If you’re thinking about getting a second dog for your household, here are some things to consider (and some might just surprise you).

Questions to ask yourself

• What’s your current dog like? Are they easygoing and sociable around other dogs, or are they nervous or aggressive? Some dogs are more accepting than others. While it’s tricky to predict, only you have the knowledge of what your dog is like and how they react to other dogs.
• Do you have the space, time and budget to have a second dog?
• Think about why you want another dog. Is it for the right reasons, such as companionship and good for your lifestyle with your current dog, or is it a guilt-based or impulse decision?

Pros and cons of getting a second dog

Pros:

• Companionship and mental stimulation for both dogs; they interact with their own kind in a different but complementary way than with their owners
• Role model and socialisation: A well behaved older dog can be an excellent role model for a younger dog or puppy
• Less dependent on you: Perfect for when you need to be away from home; having two dogs means they can entertain and comfort each other
• Social and emotional benefits for the family

Cons:

• The obvious one - cost: A second dog means doubling the cost of everything pet related, not just food.
• Double the work: Even if they get along like the best of friends, you will still need to train them to play well together as well as training the new dog if it’s a puppy.
• Potential for personality clashes: Sometimes things don’t go to plan - dogs can become territorial especially when the new dog may receive extra attention.

How to introduce a second dog to your home

With some forward planning, introducing a second dog to your household can be a pleasant experience for everyone involved.

Start by introducing the dogs to each other in a neutral spot such as a park or quiet street, not your home or backyard. This way, they can get to know each other’s scent without the older dog becoming territorial or overly defensive of their living environment.

Once home, make sure to feed them separately. Be sure to supervise them, so that one doesn’t inhale their food and try to eat the other’s food - that’s a recipe for disaster!

If one starts eating faster with the second dog in the home, try using a slow feeder bowl.

At this point, patience is your greatest ally. It may take weeks for a bond to form between the two dogs, or behavioural issues may appear.

And if your new dog is younger, puppy school training is one of the best investments you can make in your new dog’s confidence and socialisation skills.

What you'll need when adding a second dog to the family

Here’s a list of essential items to help settle in your second dog:

• An additional dog bed or crate for the new dog
• Separate food and water bowls
• An additional lead and collar. Multi-dog harnesses are useful for dogs that pull, as you have better control when taking them for walks
• Additional coverage for the newcomer if you already have pet insurance
• Some new toys and treats to reward dog behaviour from both dogs

Bringing a second dog home

Getting a second dog is an exciting decision, but like all good things, it takes a little planning and patience. With the right preparation, the right products and a realistic understanding of what's involved, two dogs can bring twice the joy to your household, for you and your existing pup.

Ready to double the fun? Petstock's team is here to help you every step of the way with adding a second dog to the pack. Check out our range of dog accessories, treats and more in store or online today.