Many older dogs will be upset, jealous, or even angry with a new puppy, especially if the older dog has been an only dog. It's going to be important to make sure the older dog gets lots (more than normal) of attention to alleviate potential hurt feelings.
Older pets often become less active because there is little to interest them, but they are otherwise healthy. Adding a puppy to the household can excite a senior dog and breathe new life into them as they play and interact with the adolescent.
If your older pup appears to be apathetic and generally has a lack of energy, this could signal depression. Let's say Fido used to love to play ball and now doesn't even blink an eye or wag his tail when you try to engage. Jealousy and sadness about the new puppy could be the culprit.
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.
Getting a puppy with an older dog introduces a social partner for both, engages your senior in more playful behavior and exercise, and may increase your senior's lifespan.
Dogs are inherently social animals that live well together in groups, but that does not mean that all dogs get along. 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.
You might find puppy training is far easier with an older dog and a new pup—the puppy will look to his senior for guidance, and model his behavior after hers. Having an older dog can make potty training your puppy way easier, too.
Allocate the Time and Resources for Another Pup
You also have to keep in mind that you'll need to invest extra for essential gear — collars, leashes and crates, to name a just a few items — as well as unexpected vet visits, potential boarding and possible pet sitters and dog walkers.
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.
Your dog is used to being your companion, and if there are other dogs that are taking you away, they are going to act upset, jealous, and even angry. This new puppy is also on their territory, and they may feel like their life is in jeopardy.
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.
And “because dogs are highly social creatures,” Dr. Borns-Weil says, in most cases, “getting another dog is the right thing to do. Dogs in isolation are not happy.” Even if you are home with your dog much of the day, a second dog in the family might very well be the right choice.
Gender: While there is no set rule that a female dog will be a better friend for a male dog, if you have never had two dogs at the same time it is generally easier and often safer to have dogs of the opposite sex. Same-sex combinations can be tricky to manage as dogs work out their dominance or pack order.
Training is easier
Since dogs crave order, the dog who already knows the rules and schedule of the house can easily help train a younger furbaby to adhere. Potty training can also be achieved with less trouble because dogs naturally go where other dogs have already relieved themselves.
All canines need individual focus, attention, play, and training daily, in addition to regular grooming. Having multiple dogs means an increase in the daily time spent playing and working with your dogs to make sure each is getting enough attention.
Introduction of a New Pet
Bringing home a new puppy or another adult dog can trigger jealousy in your dog, and they may show signs of aggression toward the new addition. Your dog might growl at the new dog, guard your lap, or try to get in between you and your new furry family member.
If you want to have another dog and your only hesitation is the fear that you won't love them the same as you do your first dog, let me tell you this: you will not the love them the same - you will love them differently, but equally.
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.
By having two dogs, it provides companionship while you are away. Both dogs are less likely to get lonely, and instead, have someone to sleep with, play with, and socialize with while you are gone.
Whether you rescue an older dog or a puppy, a lot of dogs tend to follow the 3-3-3 rule when getting acclimated: 3 days of feeling overwhelmed and nervous. 3 weeks of settling in. 3 months of building trust and bonding with you.
Yep, it's fairly normal to regret getting a puppy or dog. You're not a bad person! If you've recently added a new dog or puppy to your family and you're wondering if you've made a mistake, just know that others go through the same feelings.
Most experts agree that, as a rule, male and female dogs get along better than two females or two males.