Double the trouble or double the fun? Dog trainer Lindsay Hamrick conducts the weigh-in.
throughLindsay Hamrick, CPDT-KA
15 January 2022
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Your pet wants you to read our newsletter. (Then give them a treat.)
So you're thinking about adding another cat or dog to your home. Cats and dogs are social animals that (if the circumstances are right) benefit from being around other pets. Here are some green and red flags to help you know if this decision is right for you and your pet.
Benefits of having a second pet
1. Your dog or cat may need a friend.
Many people consider adding a second pet when they think their pet is bored, stressed, or lonely. Consider: Does your dog have contact with other dogs or cats? They love to play with dogs and have some experience meeting new dogs on walks or around the houseDay care for dogs🇧🇷 your cat everlived with another petbefore?
While some animals who have never had a roommate may welcome the idea of a new friend, success is more likely if your pet shows interest in other animals. Perhaps your dog doesn't like the company of other dogs but does well with a new kitten, or perhaps your older pet would like another old carer to join them in the foster home. If youtravel oftenor work longer hours, adding a second pet can reduce boredom or stress in your dog or cat, and when housing your pets, living together in a facility can alleviate any anxiety they may have in a new environment.
a note regardingseparation anxiety: If you are considering getting a new puppy for your dog with severe separation anxiety, consult a behavioral veterinarian or professional dog trainer first. While the company of others can help, it will not address the root cause of what is causing severe anxiety or destructive behavior, and you may have two dogs with behavior issues instead of one.
2. Your pet can be a great role model for a young animal.
If your dog or cat is a model citizen, sociable with people and other animals, and well mannered, they are likely to make a great role model for a puppy or kitten, or an anxious animal learning to get out of its shell. 🇧🇷 One of the best animal pairings is shy or insecure dogs and cats that get an older, confident and sociable friend to learn from. In fact, you will see many homeless pet adoption profiles just looking for a match.
3. A new pet can brighten an older pet's days.
Many people consider adding an animal when their pet is older. With the right combination, this can help your older pet find some extra spring in their steps. Just prepare for a really slow intro so you don't stress out on Catalie Portman, and decide what you're going to do beforehand.if the game doesn't work🇧🇷 If you think you might want to add a companion to your elderly pet, be sure to do so before major medical issues arise. Significantly changing the environment by adding a new pet can be a major stressor.
4. It can give you some time back.
Having a playmate to play with your cat or dog will help them give off some of their energy to their new friend. Individual time with each pet will still be important, but anyone who has adopted a pair of kittens will tell you that not only is it fun to watch them fight, but it keeps your nails off your back for a few minutes. 🇧🇷
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Disadvantages of having a second pet
1. Not everyone will get along.
As much as we try to mix dogs with dogs, or cats with cats, or a combination of both, some animals just don't like each other. Pets have preferences just like us, and sometimes we don't know what those preferences are until we realize that our pet is less happy with the new kitten than they are alone. You can lead anyone to successintroduce them slowlyover weeks (not days) and think carefully about what type of pet you think might work best. Adopting an exuberant puppy who will pounce on your arthritic older dog may not result in the kind of bond you were hoping for. Some of our most popular pet combinations:
An older, lazy pet with a similar cat or dog.
A loud teenage cat or dog with a confident older model.
(Video) Getting a Second Dog Pros and ConsA sociable butterfly with a slightly timid pet to help them learn the basics.
A fussy, independent pet with a goofy pet that doesn't take things too seriously.
2. It's more expensive.
Owners spend an average of $1,381 on their dogs and $908 on their cats each year, according to the 2021 American Pet Products Association survey. timeThe costs depend on the needs of the animal, you can expect to spend twice as much on vet bills (vaccinations,prevention,emergency careetc.), feeding, grooming, housing and caring for pets, training and toys.
3. Caring for two pets can take twice as long.
While some pet tasks can be completed just as quickly with one pet as with two, consider training a second dog. Will there be a lot going together and will you need to plan separate tours? What if they don't play together and rely on you?game time🇧🇷 Even though two pets enjoy fighting or chasing, spending time together is important to maintain a strong bond.
4. It won't be that easy to travel, move or change your life.
While it can be easy to pack up your Labrador and head to the beach for the weekend, it's less easy with two dogs. With three dogs in the pack, I take turns walking: The little one accompanied me on a 10-day trip to her family's this summer because she is the easiest to move to a new home and doesn't take up much space in the car. while one of the grown-ups was on vacation at the beach. The third dog is an excellent "conference" dog, he cuddles with attendees and sleeps during sessions, so he joins me when I'm presenting or attending a conference. Remember: every pet has their preferences and strengths. Having more than one means meeting your individual needs.
If you are a renter it becomes extremely difficult to find onePet optionif you have more than one pet If you expect to need themGo onIn the near future, it might be worth waiting until you're in a new location and then asking if you can add another pet. If you're single and looking to start a relationship with someone, remember that you may have a pet of your own (we hope so!) and it may be easier to just introduce a pet to your team.
5. This can change the bond you have with your current pet.
Are there older children out there? Remember when you had your parents' undivided attention and then they brought your brother home? It's not much different with our pets. Things will likely change, especially in the first few months as you meet the new pet, take him to training classes, or spend more time playing with him. Be sure to schedule one-on-one meetings with your short- and long-term resident pet to ease the transition.
Adding a second (or third or fourth...) pet can be an amazing experience, but it can also present challenges. Make a plan, be smart, ask your local animal shelter for help with mating, and you're well on your way to filling your home with an extended family of pets.
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Lindsay Hamrick, CPDT-KA
Lindsay Hamrick lives in New Hampshire with her three dogs, chickens and a variety of changing foster pets. She forces her older Chihuahua, Granny Baguette, to backpack at night, she can swaddle a lamb with one hand, and despite being a long-time certified professional dog trainer, 66.7% of her dogs still won't lie down when asked to .
FAQs
What are the pros and cons of having pets? ›
- Con: More Living Expenses. As a dependent, a pet will add to your living expenses. ...
- Pro: Unconditional Love and Companionship. ...
- Con: Care When You're Away. ...
- Pro: Home Safety. ...
- Con: Time Consumption. ...
- Pro: Built-In Icebreaker. ...
- Con: Health Care Costs. ...
- Pro: Someone to Nurture.
Two or more pets can provide additional companionship for each other. Multiple compatible pets play together, helping stave off under-stimulation and boredom that can lead to behavioral problems. This enriching relationship may also reduce or prevent separation anxiety and ease your conscience when you have to go out.
Are dogs happier if you have two? ›yes and no. Dogs are social animals and usually happier around other dogs, but a second dog will never be a substitute for inattentive, absent or too busy owners.
Is it better to have 2 dogs or 1? ›Having two dogs can feel like a lot of work sometimes, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. From easier training to better mental and emotional health (for you and your dogs!), to saving the lives of animals, there are so many solid reasons to adopt a second dog today.
What are the pros and cons of having a cat or dog? ›In general, cats are tidier, easier to care for, cost less (usually!) and are more independent, while dogs are more expensive and demand more time and attention, as well as sometimes being more affectionate.
What are the pros of having a pet? ›There are many health benefits of owning a pet. They can increase opportunities to exercise, get outside, and socialize. Regular walking or playing with pets can decrease blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. Pets can help manage loneliness and depression by giving us companionship.
What are two disadvantages of having a pet? ›5 Disadvantages to Having a Dog or Cat. Pets require a lot of attention and time. Many families and busy professionals find the time commitment the most difficult to adjust to. Dogs require time for feedings and walking several times a day.
Is it hard owning 2 dogs? ›Two dogs can be a lot to handle on their own, and adding young children to the mix can add additional responsibilities and stress—not to mention it could mean less time for your pups. Of course, plenty of families have both kids and multiple dogs, so it's not like it's impossible to manage it all at once.
Will my dog be sad if I get another dog? ›Dogs are inherently social animals that live well together in groups, but that does not mean that all dogs get along. Most dogs will welcome a new sibling, but it is not always smooth sailing. The furry family member you have now will face many changes when a new dog enters the picture and may feel a bit displaced.
Is it hard going from 1 dog to 2? ›It's often more than twice as difficult for one person to train two young dogs at the same time. Young dogs may also bond to each other and be less likely to create as strong a bond with you.
What is second dog syndrome? ›
In dogdom, there's a turn of phrase called, "Second Dog Syndrome". This describes the process of adding another dog to the home quite well, but not necessarily in a positive light. As humans, we are bound to forget all of the time and effort it takes to raise a puppy right.
Do single dogs get lonely? ›The short answer is yes. One of the emotions dogs can feel is loneliness. As you may know, dogs are pack animals and social creatures, and for this reason, they don't like spending too much time alone. Don't worry though, the good news is that most dogs can be left alone for short periods of time.
Is two dogs too much work? ›Exercise needs are lessened
In a household with more than one dog, there tends to be a lot of playing, fighting, and chasing. Your dog would wrestle, roll, and flop down together to rest. Even if you still want to do a minimum of 2 walks per day, much of your dog's energy will have been burned off by playing together.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| They can be affectionate | Their litter boxes are smelly and must be cleaned regularly |
| They are entertaining | They damage furniture |
| They may help control pests | Many people are allergic to them |
| They are cute when young | Veterinary care is expensive |
- Financial burden. Before investing in a loving addition to your family, it is important to consider the cost of this investment. ...
- Loss of spontaneity. Perhaps you are used to living a life in which you are free to come and go as you please. ...
- Decreased cleanliness and order in your home.
...
Comparison chart.
| Cat | Dog | |
|---|---|---|
| Speed | 30 mph | 20-45 mph |
| Life Expectancy | 12-25 years | 12-18 |
The adverse effectss
Other aspects include cost, time, and behavioural problems that may lead to further stress, anxiety and loneliness. Although these factors must be considered, many can be reduced or prevented if properly managed (Table 2).
- Dogs Can Make You Healthier. Dogs are high-energy companions, love to play and need exercise. ...
- Dogs Can Make You Happier. ...
- Dogs Can Keep You Safe.
Pets are a great blessing in anyone's life. They are the only ones who love us unconditionally. Pets always offer us everything they have without asking for anything in return. The main aim of any pet's life is to make their owner happy.
What is the advantage and disadvantages? ›As nouns, the difference between disadvantage and advantage is that disadvantage is a weakness or undesirable characteristic; a con while the advantage is any condition, circumstance, opportunity, or means, particularly favorable to success, or any desired end.
Are pets good for loneliness? ›
Pets provide companionship: by being affectionate, loyal, and consistent, pets reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Pets fulfil the human touch need: touch is a basic human need which pets can fulfil. Patting a pet has also been proven to lower your heart rate.
Why every child should not have a pet? ›Pets require attention all the time. Whether it's cleaning up after them, feeding and walking them, or just playing with them, there isn't much free time for you! If your children are home often, they can help out, but most of the work will fall on you as their parent.
Should you get another pet after losing one? ›Most experts agree that the time to get a new pet is after you have worked through your grief adequately to be able to look forward to a new pet instead of back at the recently departed one. That process could take a week or two – or many months.
Should you replace a pet right away? ›While you may be tempted to replace the pet you lost, it's best to take some time to think and grieve, one expert says. Losing a much-loved pet is never easy. But even harder for many is being without a four-footed companion.
Do pets know when another pet is gone? ›Cats and dogs tend to notice when a companion is no longer showing up in their lives, and they often react to that absence in a way that makes it clear that they miss their friend.
Do dogs think they are getting replaced? ›There are some clear signs you may witness if your pup is feeling a bit left out. Signs that your pup is feeling replaced can include sleeping the day away, getting into trouble around the home, begging for attention with disobedient behavior, or even having frequent accidents inside the house.
Is having 2 dogs harder than having 1? ›All canines need individual focus, attention, play, and training daily, in addition to regular grooming. Having multiple dogs means an increase in the daily time spent playing and working with your dogs to make sure each is getting enough attention.
Is it normal to regret getting a second dog? ›Yep, it's fairly normal to regret getting a puppy or dog. You're not a bad person! If you've recently added a new dog or puppy to your family and you're wondering if you've made a mistake, just know that others go through the same feelings.
Should you get another dog if you already have one? ›Many breeders recommend that your first dog be at least one-to-two-years old before you add a second to the family. If you have an old dog, he may not be physically able to play with or tolerate a pup.
How do I know if my dog wants another dog? ›- Your Dog is a Fan of Other Dogs. ...
- They Act Bored or Depressed. ...
- They Hate Leaving the Dog Park. ...
- Your Current Pup is Well Trained. ...
- They Know How to Share.
Will my dog be sad if I get another pet? ›
Dogs are inherently social animals that live well together in groups, but that does not mean that all dogs get along. Most dogs will welcome a new sibling, but it is not always smooth sailing. The furry family member you have now will face many changes when a new dog enters the picture and may feel a bit displaced.
Will my dog feel betrayed if I get another dog? ›For example, if you get a new pet and start paying it more attention than your dog, the dog will not feel betrayed in the true sense of the word. However, it may show signs of distress and disappointment because it is suddenly being treated differently or being deprived of something it is used to getting.
What changes when you get a second dog? ›You'll spend more money
Plus you'll need to purchase a second collar, a leash, extra food bowls, another bed, and a second crate. If the thought of doubling up on those expenses makes you break into a cold sweat—perhaps, a second dog isn't in your future.
Introduction of a New Pet
Bringing home a new puppy or another adult dog can trigger jealousy in your dog, and they may show signs of aggression toward the new addition. Your dog might growl at the new dog, guard your lap, or try to get in between you and your new furry family member.