thinking of getting a second dog

sddoggielvr

I'm thinking about adopting a second dog as my current dog seems like he wants a doggie friend. Plus, I'd love to have a second dog. Anyway, I was wondering...

1. Are two dogs better than one?
2. Are two dogs a lot more work/money?
3. Are two dogs a good idea?

I'm really unsure but I know that I really want to get a second dog. The problem is that I'm not sure if it could work.

Plus, I'd have to convince my parents, first. How would I do that?!

I'm considering getting a second dog, because my current dog seems kind of lonely. Don't get me wrong, we spend LOTS of time with him, but he seems to want that doggy companionship.

1. Are two dogs happier than one?
2. Are two dogs harder to take care of - more expensive, need more time?
3. What are the benefits and disadvantages of two dogs?

I am unsure about this, but I know that I do want a second dog, I'm just not sure if it would work.

Also, I would have to convince my parents. How do I do that?!

fawkese1

hi there...welcome to the forum

to start...i moved your posts together into one thread... it's a bit less confusing that way...
now to answer your questions...

having 2 can be better in some ways... tho you want to make sure that the dogs actually like each other and are compatible companions, having 2 dogs can be better, they can play together and keep each other company... most dogs enjoy the socialization of having someone around with them...tho not all dogs will automatically like all other dogs. it will cost more...food, toys, crates, food dishes, vet bills...all those things will be doubled...also, you need to be sure you can handle training the dogs when they always have the distraction of a second dog around...

as far as convincing your parents... i don't really know...

what kind of dog do you have? age? any behavior issues that need work? general state of health? you'll want to consider these things too...

kmes

Sounds like you should just ask your parents, but you'll need to accept their answer!



If you really want your dog to have some doggy friends, all you really need to do is find other friendly dogs in your area and set up a "play date".
What about neighbors, friends, and family members? Do they own any friendly dogs your dog could play with?

Also why not try some new activities. What is your dog like??? Is he an active dog? If so you could sign up for agility or flyball classes. Is he a super calm and sweet dog? If so maybe you could train for therapy dog work.
Almost any dog would enjoy obedience and rally classes if you keep training fun and rewarding.
Most of these activites would provide some interaction with other well behaved dogs.