Many dog owners wonder whether having two dogs is better than one.
The answer to that depends on your abilities and needs. And on the dog’s personality.
When I got my first dog, the woman at the Humane Society tried to convince me I should adopt two.
I realize they were trying to save another dog. Because I was a little nervous about taking on the responsibility of one dog, there was no way I was ready to take on two.
Browning was a high-energy, beagle-Labrador puppy. He was a chewer, a digger, and a scratcher.
My sister stayed with me that first summer, which meant he was only alone for a few hours each day. That made it easier to train him.
When she left, he hated being left home alone in the laundry room for long stretches and became destructive.
He chewed and scratched the door frame, scratched the paint on the wall, and even scraped a hole in the vinyl floor covering.
Becoming a two-dog owner
So, a few months later, I got a second dog when a friend needed to find a home for an abandoned puppy.
It was the best decision I ever made. Finley was a sweet, mellow, beagle-cocker spaniel mix. And his destructive behavior stopped once Browning had a buddy to run and play with during the day.
Dogs are pack animals; some dogs, like Browning, need the comfort of having at least a small pack. Sometimes, getting a second dog to keep the first company can solve many problems like separation anxiety or boredom.
Their pairing worked because the dogs got along. Determining second-dog compatibility is crucial.
You’ll often see people who find a breed they like and then adopt multiple dogs from that breed, often overlapping so they always have at least one dog.
Like my Sydney, an Australian shepherd-corgi mix, other dogs are perfectly content being only children.
She was intelligent and independent. She enjoyed playing at doggy daycare or being around other dogs at agility training, but our home is her castle, and she didn’t want anyone else crowding her throne.
Nutmeg, my Pembroke Welsh Corgi, also likes being an only dog. Although, I’ve pondered the merits of adding another Corgi puppy to our home before she gets much older.
Before adding another dog, consider the benefits of having two dogs and weigh the pros and cons. Then, if you decide to add a second dog, here are a few two-dog household tips:
The dogs’ age
To successfully introduce a second dog into your family, the best time to add it is when the first is 2 to 3 years old. In a multiple-dog household, it’s best to add a younger dog.
You can add another dog when the first is older, but it likely will take more work. You also may struggle if you have intact male or intact female dogs. So, spaying and neutering are critical.
Not only will you be working on training the new dog or puppy, but you’ll also need to make sure you have plenty of time to spend one-on-one with the older dog to make sure the dog still feels loved and doesn’t get nervous that he’s losing his place.
Can you leave the dogs alone? Yes, if both are well-behaved. You don’t want to put the dogs in a situation where one could injure the other.
Adopting littermates
Most experts recommend not taking more than one dog from the same litter.
Littermates are more likely to bond with each other than with their owner. They are also more likely to exhibit bullying and aggression.
Most experts recommend not taking more than one dog from the same litter.
Littermates are more likely to bond with each other than with their owner. They also are more likely to exhibit bullying and aggression.
Analyze the costs
Start by recognizing that owning a dog is expensive. From adoption fees to vet fees to food, toys, and more.
Figure out how much it will cost to own a dog for at least 15 years. Then, double that if you’re planning to get a second pup.
Gender of the second dog
If you’re adding a second dog to your family, the experts recommend adopting a dog of the opposite sex. Two male dogs are more likely to compete over food, toys, and their owners’ affection.
It also helps if the new dog is younger. A puppy is less likely to challenge an older dog. But there’s always a chance for conflict. Neutered dogs are more likely to get along.
Pros and cons of having two dogs
The prospect of having double the love and cuddles, a constant source of joy and warmth, may seem incredibly appealing. However, it’s important to consider some factors before welcoming a second dog into your home.
Pros
Companionship: One of the most incredible benefits of having two dogs is that they provide each other with constant companionship. Dogs are social animals and thrive on interaction with other dogs. With another dog around, they always have a playmate, someone to snuggle with, and someone to keep them company when you’re not home.
Reduced separation anxiety: Separation anxiety, a common issue among single-dog households, can lead to destructive behaviors. However, the presence of another dog at home can provide a comforting and reassuring environment, potentially alleviating these issues.
Encourages exercise: Dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy. If you have two dogs, they will encourage each other to be active and engage in activities like playing fetch or walking together.
Cons
Double the expenses: It’s no secret that owning a pet comes with food costs, vet bills, grooming costs, etc. When you add another dog into the mix, those costs will double.
Personality clashes: Just like humans have different personalities, so do dogs. There is always a chance that the two dogs may not get along or have different energy levels, which can lead to conflicts and aggression.
Time commitment: Having one dog requires significant time and attention, but having two dogs will require even more. You must dedicate enough time for training, exercise, playtime, and individual attention for each dog.
Behavioral issues: When adding a new dog, it may pick up bad behaviors from each other or become territorial over certain resources such as toys or food.
Challenges of adding a second dog
Introducing a second dog can be exciting and rewarding but comes with challenges.
Adjusting to a new dynamic
Bringing home a second dog means introducing a new pet and creating a new dynamic within your current pack. Dogs are naturally social animals, but each has unique personalities and preferences.
This can sometimes lead to conflicts or tension as they establish their hierarchy and boundaries within the household.
Adjusting and finding their place in the pack may take some time.
Potential behavioral issues
Adding another dog to the mix can trigger existing behavioral issues in either of your dogs.
For example, if one dog is possessive over toys or food, this behavior may escalate when there is competition.
Additionally, if one of your dogs has separation anxiety or leash reactivity, bringing in a second dog could exacerbate these issues.
Increased expenses
It’s no secret that having pets can be expensive, especially when you have two.
Aside from doubling up on food and supplies, there will also be additional costs for veterinary care, such as vaccinations, check-ups, and emergency visits.
Before deciding, it’s essential to consider whether you have the financial means to provide for two dogs.
Time commitment
Having two dogs also means double the time commitment for walks, playtime, training sessions, and grooming tasks like brushing and bathing. Adjusting your daily schedule and prioritizing your time may be necessary.
Health concerns
When adding a second dog to your household, you must consider any potential health concerns from introducing a new pet into an established environment.
This includes ensuring both dogs are up-to-date on vaccinations and parasite-prevention medications.
Bonding and attention
Your first dog may have been the center of your attention before, but now she will have to share it. This can lead to feelings of jealousy or neglect from your first dog.
It’s important to continue giving both dogs individual attention and bonding time to maintain a healthy relationship with each of them.
Emotional benefits of having two dogs
Having two dogs isn’t just about having more company; it’s a powerful strategy that can effectively combat loneliness and separation anxiety in both dogs and humans.
Dogs are social animals who thrive on companionship, so having a playmate at all times can help fulfill their need for constant interaction. Companionship is especially beneficial for older or more anxious dogs who may feel stressed when left alone.
Furthermore, the addition of a second dog can be a game-changer for their behavior, fostering a more harmonious and enjoyable living environment.
The first dog often learns from the second dog’s good habits, leading to a positive influence on their behavior.
When they have a canine friend to look up to and learn from, they often pick up good habits such as obedience and potty training faster than being an only dog.
With the constant companionship of another dog, they are less likely to engage in destructive behaviors out of boredom.
With twice the love and affection from these loyal creatures, it’s no surprise that studies have shown pet owners with multiple pets report lower stress levels than those with just one pet or none at all.
Moreover, caring for two pups increases owners’ physical activity and exercise opportunities.
Taking them on walks or playing helps keep your furry friends healthy and promotes bonding between you and your pets.
Having two dogs creates an unbreakable bond.
The dogs become inseparable companions, providing each other with endless love and support, a testament to their profound emotional connection.
This bond makes them happier and healthier and serves as a heartwarming example of the power of companionship.
The bottom line on adding another dog
Trust your instincts. And analyze your dog. A pair of dogs can love to play and help entertain each other.
If you have a dog that struggles with separation anxiety or is destructive when bored, adding another dog can eliminate behavior problems.
Would adding a second dog enhance your dog’s life? If so, and you have the time, patience, and financial means — go ahead and get a second dog.
Sara B. Hansen has spent 20-plus years as a professional editor and writer. She’s also the author of The Complete Guide to Cocker Spaniels. She decided to create her dream job by launching DogsBestLife.com in 2011. Sara grew up with family dogs, and since she bought her first house, she’s had a furry companion or two to help make it a home. She shares her heart and home with Nutmeg, a Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Her previous dogs: Sydney (September 2008-April 2020), Finley (November 1993-January 2008), and Browning (May 1993-November 2007). You can reach Sara @ editor@dogsbestlife.com.