What should you consider when you are thinking about getting a second dog? You have a beloved family dog and you feel it’s time to give him and the rest of the family a new friend. You want to consider a few things about your dog (and your family!) before taking on a new dog. Size, age, behavior are just a few things you want to think about before taking home a new family member. Keep on reading for what to consider before adding to your family!
Things to Consider When Getting a Second Dog
Puppy or rescue? This is a big decision. Do you want to start fresh with a puppy and do all the training and housebreaking or would you rather give a second chance to a rescue from a shelter or Humane Society? A puppy is a great idea, you can train him how you want, but you do have to go through all the puppy stages such as crating and housebreaking and chewing. Are you ready to do that all again? A rescue dog is a great way to go. You will be giving a second chance at a great life to a dog in need of a loving home. He will want to please you just as much, yet he comes with a lot less responsibility when it comes to training, as he may already be house broken and know some things about proper behavior.
Your own dog’s likes and dislikes:
How does he do around other dogs? Does he prefer males over females or small dogs over big dogs? I know with our own dog, we would do better getting a puppy, something small she could feel like a mother to, so that’s what we did. You want to consider how your current dog will react to a new canine in the house. If he is not going to be very accepting, do not put him through the stress of living with another dog. You don’t want to stress your dog and your family out, or worse, have to find him a new home or bring him to a shelter once you find it just won’t work.
Cost and time:
There is always a cost when taking in a new pet. You will double the vet and food bills, not to mention toys and your time. Dogs are great companions, so none of that has to be a deterrent, just something you need to consider if you are wanting to bring home a new dog.
Age:
If you have an elderly dog, you might want to think twice about bringing a rambunctious pup into the family. Your aging dog will most likely not be engaging to the pup and just get frustrated. You don’t want to make your elderly friend miserable in his old age. Think about his needs before you decide to bring a puppy home. Consider an older dog, or maybe just waiting until the time is right to bring home a new friend. On the flip side, getting a second dog might help to entertain your current one! I know mine are great friends, often found grooming each other.
Bringing a second dog into your home is a wonderful idea, and one that does not have to bring on a lot of stress for your family or your current dog. Just be smart and take into consideration your dog and what he can handle. You know your animal (and family) best.
What has been your experience in bringing a second dog into your home? Did you choose a puppy or a rescue? Share with us your experiences.
