You love your dog so much you’re thinking about bringing home a second furry friend, because twice the dog equals twice the fun, right? That could be true, but here’s what you need to consider before you rush into making a decision.

When you adore your dog and have lots of fun together, it’s natural to start thinking about adding a second dog to your pack. Or perhaps you’re feeling worried that your dog gets lonely while you are at work all day, and wonder if they would be happier with a friend. You may be right!

The Pros

• Your family will have twice the love to enjoy. No more fighting over who gets to walk the dog.
• Your pet will have a playmate, if they want one. This can also keep your pet out of your hair when they’re bored and want to play.
• More dogs enforce the group dynamic, and help your dog feel secure.
• Some dogs do get lonely without a friend, and a second dog will alleviate this loneliness.
• If your dog has separation anxiety, having another dog there may help. Another dog can be a valuable companion so your dog doesn’t miss you as much while you’re gone.

The Cons

• Not all dogs will be comfortable with another dog in the house. Depending on their past experiences, their temperament, age, and health, adding another pup might be stressful—for both your dog, and for you.
• Training two dogs can be tricky. They should be trained according to their temperaments, and listening to you separately to ensure they’ll still follow your guidance effectively whenever they’re together. Otherwise, the more confident dog will teach the partner dog, and you may have even more behavioural problems to deal with.
• You’ll have to clean up after two dogs. This means twice the fur, twice the potty pickups, and twice the damage control if they are chewers.
• There will be additional costs to consider for veterinary care, boarding, food, bedding, and toys.
• Sibling rivalry can occur if the dogs feel there is competition between them over resources. This can include feeling competititve over food, toys, attention, and space, as well as the humans in their lives.

Getting a second dog takes a lot of consideration and can sometimes require more effort on your part. However, if it all works out, you get twice the love and a big, happy family! As always, if you need advice or one-on-one help with your dogs, your local Bark Busters trainer would be happy to help.