While the majority of dogs will get along well with their new sibling, your first dog may not be happy having to share their toys, space, territory, or even their owner's affection. This makes it important to prepare and do your research when getting ready to bring home a second dog.
They enjoy friendly interactions with familiar humans or other animals and tend to avoid isolation. That being said, every dog is different has its own temperament and preferences. Some dogs prefer to live alone with their owners, while others prefer having another dog friend in the house.
Dogs are social animals and usually happier around other dogs, but a second dog will never be a substitute for inattentive, absent or too busy owners.
Many people are hesitant to adopt a second dog because they assume it will be twice the work and twice the money. But the truth is, owning two dogs doesn't have to be more work – in fact, it can often be easier. And as for the cost, it will cost more money than one but not twice the amount.
Most dogs will welcome a new sibling, but it is not always smooth sailing. The furry family member you have now will face many changes when a new dog enters the picture and may feel a bit displaced. He may not like sharing his territory, toys, food, resting places, or humans.
Many breeders recommend that your first dog be at least one-to-two-years old before you add a second to the family. If you have an old dog, he may not be physically able to play with or tolerate a pup.
Before settling on a breed, think about the gender of the dog. For the happiest dogs and the safest household, opposite sex dogs almost always do best together. Many same-sex combinations of dogs will fight, sometimes to the death. Those who work out a dominance order may not fare much better.
Most experts agree that, as a rule, male and female dogs get along better than two females or two males.
Canine Companionship
One benefit of having two is that they'll keep each other company. If the dogs get along well, the companionship will prevent boredom. They'll be occupied, which means the dogs will have less time for bad behaviors, such as chewing things they aren't supposed to.
So, if you get a 2nd dog, please make sure and socialize them on their own. Walk them on their own, take them to new places alone, and especially take them to the dog park without your other dog so they can be taught appropriate behavior by new dogs and not just rely on interactions with their sibling.
It can take up to one month for an old dog and new dog to really settle in and accept each other's position in the pack. If you want a second dog, you need to be ready to commit to this process and not panic.
Introduce on neutral territory.
At first, walk the dogs at a distance where they can see each other but are not too provoked by each other's presence. If the dogs are not showing any negative behaviors, reward them with treats just for seeing each other.
Keep your new dog near you during their first couple of days. Before allowing them to explore the home, walk them through each room on a leash to help familiarize them with the layout. You can even consider keeping them on a leash for a couple of days until they get used to your routine.
Meyer. One of the most important rules of dog training is the two second rule. This is because dogs always live in the moment so TIMING IS EVERYTHING! Feedback must be given to your dog within two seconds of the behavior in order for him to understand what you are correcting or rewarding.
Two dogs can be a lot to handle on their own, and adding young children to the mix can add additional responsibilities and stress—not to mention it could mean less time for your pups. Of course, plenty of families have both kids and multiple dogs, so it's not like it's impossible to manage it all at once.
Renaming your dog is easy and you can do it when she is any age, young or old. She does not really care what you call her, whether a classic name or a more outdoorsy dog name—as long as she understands you are the source of all good things and that she belongs to you.
In dogdom, there's a turn of phrase called, "Second Dog Syndrome". This describes the process of adding another dog to the home quite well, but not necessarily in a positive light. As humans, we are bound to forget all of the time and effort it takes to raise a puppy right.
You'll spend more money
They come with vet bills, sitter fees, grooming costs, obedience school costs, and food costs. Plus you'll need to purchase a second collar, a leash, extra food bowls, another bed, and a second crate.
You should typically select a dog with the opposite gender as your current dog. Why you ask? In each pack there is usually a top male and top female dog. If you have one of each, they won't be vying for the same position.
Other pets might bring some comfort to your anxious dog, but they won't cure their separation anxiety. Unfortunately, the short answer to the question “Will getting another dog help my dog with separation anxiety”, is usually no.
Many new pet owners experience a moment of panic and even regret during the first few months with their new cat or dog. Thankfully, with some time, patience, and compassion for both you and your pet, these feelings can be overcome, and you'll be well on your way to a lifetime of happiness with your new best friend.