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Have you ever stopped to watch your dog fall asleep on the floor or stare wistfully out of the window and wonder if they are day-dreaming of finding a canine friend? We all know that socialization is of the utmost importance for dogs, but there may come a time when you feel like a daily visit to the park or casual play-date with the neighbours’ pooch is no longer enough. There may come a day when you consider bringing a second dog into your family.
Having two dogs can be a great joy. They can become the best of friends, instant playmates and keep each other company when you have to work or run errands. In true pack-like fashion they can fall into the same routine, making care not all that more time-consuming for you and of course together they help to create double the memories.
However, before you bring a second pup home it is important to make sure that you have the financial means to care for the expense of two dogs and the space to exercise them on a regular basis. It is also a good idea to make sure your first fur-baby gets along well with other dogs; although you’ll probably have an excellent sense of this already from their other socializing activities.
The question is when are you, as an owner and devoted pet parent, ready for a second fur-ball? How did you know? I’d love to hear your thoughts and stories!
I’d be interested in hearing from those who have two fur-children if they find it more of a challenge to go places. One child (fur or otherwise) can be pretty straightforward and can be swapped between fur-parents, but two? Does that demand more preparation and energy, and involve more distraction?
I waited 4 years before getting my 2nd dog (Roxy)! I also made sure to rescue a dog that was similar in age and energy as my first dog (Cooper) so that they could play together and tire eachother out (and create a little mischief together in the process)
I took a week off from work once I rescued Roxy to make sure that they were getting along okay and peacefully coexisting :) I’d definitely recommend spending a lot of time before committing to be sure that your second dog is compatible with the first!