Treat Your Dogs Equally If one pup is allowed on the couch, then all the dogs in the family should be let on the couch. If one pup gets a solo-play session in the backyard, then the other dogs should get an equal amount of alone time with the pet parent doing something they enjoy.
Take Separate Walks
If you normally walk your dogs at the same time, try switching it up at least once a week. If you don't have a lot of time, or energy, take one dog on a short walk, swing back by your house and take your other dog on a long walk. You can trade the next week so each dog gets a turn at a long walk.
By nature, dogs are social and thrive in group environments. Therefore, there are many advantages to adopting a second dog, such as: They can keep each other company. Both dogs will be able to entertain each other and get exercise together.
Second Dog Syndrome
As humans, we are bound to forget all of the time and effort it takes to raise a puppy right. All too often, a second dog joins the household and the expectation is that they will behave as the existing dog in the home does, so they are often given the same freedom right off the bat.
Introducing Dogs to Dogs HOMEWARD TRAILS RESOURCE LIBRARY: DOGS! Many people do not give two dogs time to adequately adjust to one another before deciding that having two dogs will simply not work. 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.
The amount of time each individual pet needs to adjust to their new homes will vary, but the 3-3-3 rule helps give an approximation of what new pet owners can expect. The 3-3-3 rule refers to the first 3 days, the first 3 weeks, and the first 3 months after bringing a shelter animal home.
yes and no. 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.
After getting a new dog, you may find that they quickly become jealous after you bring them home. Finding a new forever home can be a very emotional time. Sometimes, a newly adopted dog becomes jealous because they crave your attention, touch, and voice as a comfort during this time of change.
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. This is because dogs will often share toys, beds, etc.
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, they may not be physically able to play with or tolerate a pup.
When you have a pair of dogs, they provide each other with companionship and mental and physical stimulation. That can help avoid obedience issues when you have a single dog. Many dog owners wonder whether having two dogs is better than one. The answer to that depends on your abilities and needs.
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.
Causes of Dog Depression
Beaver said major changes in a dog's life could lead to periods of depression. Those include moving into a new home, a new spouse or baby in the household, or adding another pet.
For example, if you get a new pet and start paying it more attention than your dog, the dog will not feel betrayed in the true sense of the word. However, it may show signs of distress and disappointment because it is suddenly being treated differently or being deprived of something it is used to getting.
Some dogs are happy to be sociable, while other prefer their own space and will be more comfortable with dogs who can respect their boundaries. If your dog displays anxious or aggressive behaviour around other dogs, we would recommend getting in touch with a qualified canine behaviourist for help.
It's An Individual Choice
Only you can know what feels right for you. For some people, one or two dogs is the right number. For others, especially those who compete in dog sports, the right number of dogs might be more.
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.
Having two dogs can feel like a lot of work sometimes, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. From easier training to better mental and emotional health (for you and your dogs!), to saving the lives of animals, there are so many solid reasons to adopt a second dog today.
Before bringing another dog into your home, evaluate whether you can dedicate enough time to meet the needs of both your existing dog and the newcomer. If you have a well-established routine and can provide individual attention to each dog, it's a promising sign that you're ready for the added responsibilities.