How to Choose a Second Dog
Having a furry friend as part of the family can bring a lot of joy and fun so you may be considering adding a second dog into the house. Whether it’s your first dog or second dog, getting a new pup is always exciting but introducing a dog to a home is not the same as when you bring a new dog with another dog already living there. So if you are looking to expand the furry members of your family we have created some tips to help you choose a second dog.
Does Your Dog Prefer To Be Alone?
You may want another dog but will your dog be happy to see another four-legged pup in the house? Some dogs are very territorial so it may be best to stick to the one dog and give them all of your love. So, if long hours at work are keeping you away from your dog and buying another one isn’t an option, you can enrol your dog in a daycare or hire a dog walker. This ensures that your dog doesn’t feel lonely when you’re gone and is continuously engaged in stimulating activities.
What To Look For In A Dog Companion?
If both you and your dog agree that a new friend is the way to go, the next step is considering who that friend will be. Dogs have many different attributes so certain dogs will be a better match with yours than other dogs. Here are some factors to keep in mind while when you choose a second dog:
Personality: Observe your dog’s behaviour around other dogs and note if they take a liking to a particular type of dog. Dogs have different personalities just like humans and your furry friend will be looking for their match. If your dog is hyperactive, it may do much better with a laidback dog which will complement it instead of another hyper dog. Meanwhile, a timid or nervous dog may feel comfortable around a confident dog. Look closely at the kind of personality your dog responds well to.
Sizes: It is much easier to handle similar sized dogs as larger dogs may become a safety hazard for smaller ones. While small and big dogs can make great friends too, the size difference can make training and playtime much harder for you.
Sex: Sex can be a major factor if your dogs are not neutered and spayed. Usually, same-sex dogs are more likely to get into conflict. Buying opposite sex dogs can eliminate that. However, sex shouldn’t be a huge factor if the dogs are well trained and neutered.
Age: The age difference of your dog can also contribute to how well they get along. A senior dog may not have enough energy or patience for a hyperactive puppy which may cause discomfort for both.
How To Start Their Friendship?
You have chosen the type of dog so now is where they get to meet and develop their relationship. Friendships take time so you should not expect them to get along straight away. Here is how you can make that transition:
- At first, you should gradually introduce the dogs to each other rather than giving them a sudden change or a new dog that is always around.
- Dogs can get territorial if you bring someone into their territory, so introduce the two dogs in a neutral place instead of your house so they can start on a good note.
- After the initial meeting, bring the new dog into the house and allow them to play together under your supervision. Keep them in separate rooms at first.
- Start walking the two dogs together with you in between for the first few times until the dogs get used to each other’s company.
- Give them both equal attention so they have no reason to compete for your affection.
- Observe them both carefully and monitor their actions during the initial phase. Later when they become friends, you can fall into a pattern and enjoy the beautiful friendship.
Dogs are inherently pack animals who need some canine company. Getting your dog a new friend can be an excellent idea and considering their likes and dislikes can contribute a lot in making the right decision when you choose a second dog.
