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.
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.
When you're very bonded to your older dog and you get a new puppy it's natural to feel a bit … guilty. If any of you have experienced this, you'll have to let me know in the comments or email ([email protected]). My senior dog Ace and I are very bonded.
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.
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. Below is info to help you decide whether this step is for you and if so, how to make it successful.
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.
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.
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.
You are NOT taking away any love from your other dog.
You're simply adding even more love into your life. In fact, adding a new love to your life may grow the love you have for the dog you've lost because that dog taught you so much about love. I also like to think that Lilly helped bring our 2 new puppy-girls to us.
He says your best options for rehoming are contacting the breeder, if that is where the animal was sourced. "Often they will encourage you to bring it back if you can't take care of it." If you adopted the animal from elsewhere, there are rescue groups that can help.
“This is something dogs share. It's like being a woman and never being able to talk to or confide in another woman.” Becker concedes, however, that it's not cruel to have only one dog, and a dog is far happier on a couch than in a shelter. Introducing a second dog, or even a cat, takes special consideration.
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. Even a change in the dog's schedule, for instance a stay-at-home owner who takes a job, can cause a dog to get down.
It's our only Down Dog rule – that when dogs meet and greet each other that time should be limited to three seconds, then you call your dog away and praise them for their wonderful manners. It does depend on the breed, and, most importantly, you only allow your dog to meet and greet if both dogs are happy to do so.
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.
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.
Yes, post puppy depression is a common experience for many people. You do all the research that you can think of, the breed you would like, find a breeder or rescue that aligns with your values, and even buy the bedding, collar and lead for your new puppy.
Unmet Expectations
When bringing a new dog into your life, you probably envisioned all the fun things you'd do together. The reality, at least at first, maynot match up to those expectations. The dissonance between your expectations and reality can make you feel overwhelmed, sad, and disappointed.
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.
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.
Again, here are 3 pros and benefits of getting a second dog:
Your dog will have a playmate. Your dogs will be less bored. Double the puppy love and cuddles.
The centre instructs: "Place the back of your hand on the pavement. If you cannot hold it for five seconds, it's too hot to walk your dog." A dog's paws are just as sensitive as human feet and are therefore susceptible getting painfully burned and can suffer these burns even on days you wouldn't consider overly hor.
Consider Other Household Pets
However, dogs can experience grief at the loss of their furry friend too, and, sometimes, having a new dog around for companionship can help them feel less lonely. Dr. Gardner says you need to consider how the new pet can change the dynamics in the house.
Training, socializing, and caring for two puppies is more than twice the work of caring for one. Costs – of puppy supplies, vet bills, training classes, grooming, etc. – will double for two puppies. Waiting until your puppy is trained and bonded to you to add another puppy to your household is a good idea.