When you bring home a new dog, it’s exciting and fun! We get you. You may be thinking about getting a second dog for companionship or to keep your first dog company. Or maybe you want to get another dog because your current one is lonely and needs someone special to hang out with all day. Whatever the reason, there are things to consider before adding another canine family member. We’re here to help!
Think about the type of dog you'd like
Once you've got your head around the idea of adding a dog to your family, it's time to start thinking about what type of dog would be best for your situation.
- Are you looking for a companion dog or working dog? This is an important distinction because the personality and energy level of each type can vary greatly. For example, if you have kids who want to play with their new furry friend all day long, then that might be a good idea. However if one parent works full-time and isn't home during most days then having not so energetic pup could be beneficial as he/she will keep himself entertained while also keeping watch over things while everyone sleeps at night!
- What do you want out of the new addition to the family? Do you want another guard dog or just something friendly that will greet you when you come home from work every day? Is there enough space in your yard (or apartment balcony) for another large breed like German Shepherds or Great Danes? These are all questions worth considering before making any decisions regarding whether or not adding another canine friend into your lives would work well.
Consider the size of your home and yard
Before you get a second dog, it's important to consider the size of your home and yard. If you have a large dog, consider getting a small one. And vice versa: if you have a small dog, think about getting a similar size or a larger one, if you have enough space.
If your yard is big enough for two dogs to play together without getting into trouble (like digging), then go ahead and get that second pup!
Take time to research breeds
Before you commit to getting a second dog, it's important to think about your lifestyle and what kind of dog will fit into it.
- Research the characteristics of different breeds. There are so many breeds out there--it can be overwhelming! When researching breeds, consider your lifestyle and how much time you want to spend with your dog. Do you have kids? Are they active? Where do they go to school? Is there enough space for them at home? What kind of energy level would suit both dogs best (for example, one might be more laid back while another might enjoy going on long walks)? If possible, try meeting some local dogs from shelters or breed rescue groups so that they can show off their personalities before making a decision about which breed(s) would work best in your home.
Consider how much time you have for walking, feeding, and playing with a new dog.
- How much time do you have for walking, feeding and playing with a new dog?
- Do you have the time to spend with a new dog?
- How much time do you have for grooming?
If the answer is "not much," then maybe it's not the right time to add a second dog. Some dogs are more active than others, but they all need exercise and attention--and if you don't have enough of either of those things to give your first pet, adding another animal into the mix could cause problems in your household (or at least lead to one unhappy pooch).
Getting a second dog can be rewarding but there are a lot of things to consider before taking on the responsibility.
Before you get a second dog, it's important to think about what kind of dog will fit in with your existing family members. For example, if you have small children and want a playful puppy or young adult, then maybe that isn't such a good idea. It's also important to consider the size of your home and yard when deciding whether or not adding another member is right for you. If space is limited and there's little outdoor access available, then getting another furry friend may not be worth the cost or effort involved in caretaking duties like walking them regularly (and keeping them safe from cars).
Finally--and perhaps most importantly--take time before making any final decisions regarding adding another companion into the mix! Research breeds carefully so as not only find one that matches with your lifestyle but also has traits compatible with those already living within this household unit.
Conclusion
We know that getting a second dog can be a big decision. But if you're ready to add some furry companionship to your life, we hope this article has helped you think through the pros and cons of bringing home another pet.
Discover the Pawfect Products for Your Furry Friend - Browse our selection and find the ideal match for your dog’s needs - https://www.dogcratesplus.co.uk/
