Adding a second dog to your home is not always plain sailing, so you need to be sure you are ready for the challenge. Having two dogs is very different to having one and it you will need to change many of the things you do to ensure you cater for two.
It is important to pick the right companion for your existing pet carefully. Experts suggest it is best to go for an animal that is not too similar in age or characteristics to your current pet. This may sound strange but studies suggest that the less that two pets have in common, the less likely they are to see each other as competition, and thus the more likely they are to live and play together harmoniously.
Once you have brought your new canine friend home, it might be helpful for the settling in process to establish space and allocate time for each pet. The dogs will be together in the same house all day so at some point split them up; perhaps put one outside while you give the other some attention and then swap them over. This will not only help your new pet settle in, it will also help prevent your existing one feeling neglected or jealous. You should also feed the two of them separately to ensure that neither one dominates and eats the other’s food.
There will always be the odd quarrel, but dogs do generally enjoy the company of other canines. Therefore, careful allocation of space and affection can help create a happy environment in which new and existing dogs can peacefully co-exist.
