The Benefits Of Having More Than One Dog

A dog can provide affection, companionship, and be your best friend, but there are times when you are unable to be with your dog.  As many of us have to work, or have other things in life to do, your dog could become lonely at times. 

 Even better you could decide that if one dog is fun, then having more than one dog could be even better! 

Here are some of the benefits of having more than one dog:

Benefits

Friend or Companion

Dogs are extremely social creatures and enjoy the company of one another.  By having another dog they can provide comfort to one another especially when left alone at home.

Play Buddy

Dogs that have another dog in the home with them usually enjoy playing together, whether this is chasing each other throughout the home, playing tug, or an old fashioned wrestling matches.

Increased Exercise

It is known that dogs that have another dog in the home will usually get more exercise during the day by playing with each other rather than a dog who is alone and spends most of the day sleeping.

Decreases The Chance Of Being Destructive

Some dogs may start to act out, or get bored when left alone during the day and begin destroying your personal belongings in the home.  By having another dog in the home it prevents your dog from becoming bored.  To learn more about why a dog may become destructive, check out our blog post titled “What Causes A Dog To Become Destructive”.

Decreases The Chance Of Separation Anxiety

Some dogs do not do well on their own and are more likely to experience separation anxiety especially when left alone during the day while you are at work.  To learn more about separation anxiety, check out our blog post titled “Does Your Dog Suffer From Separation Anxiety”.

Concerns

Older Dog

If you have an elderly dog then getting a young puppy is probably not a good idea as it could pester and annoy the older dog.  It`s usually best to get a mature adult dog, One who is calm, easy-going and who won’t try to move in and push your older dog around.

Adult Dog

If you have an adult dog, it’s a good idea to choose a dog of the opposite sex.  A dog of the opposite sex will usually be welcomed, whereas a dog of the same sex may cause some resentment and jealousy.

Young Dog or Puppy

It’s usually easier to get a second dog if you have a young dog or a puppy.  In this case you can get a dog of either sex and you don’t usually have to worry about your first dog being jealous.  They usually see the second dog as a fun playmate.

Bringing A New Dog In Your Home

When you bring a new dog into your home you should take care to introduce the two dogs in a neutral area.  Let the dog’s get to know each other a little in this area before you take them in your house where your first dog might feel more territorial. 

Also be sure that you continue to pay attention to your first dog.  If you pay excessive attention to your new dog you will make your first dog jealous and this will cause problems between the dogs.