Should You Get a Second Dog?

If you are already a parent to one dog, you’re definitely in on the secret that life is better with a pup in it. So, by now, you’ve probably asked yourself, Would life be even better with two dogs? 

Before we jump to the obvious “yes,” there are a few more questions you need to ask yourself before you jump into the two-dog life. It’s important to consider why you want a second dog, how having a second dog will affect your routine, and whether your existing dog would enjoy having a canine friend — or at least tolerate a new dog in the family.

Questions to ask yourself before getting a second dog

Get the entire family on board with the idea of a second dog, and consider your dog’s temperament and experience around other dogs. Give yourself a quick quiz by considering the following questions:

• Why do I really want a second dog? Be honest with yourself. Wanting another dog because you genuinely have room in your life for them is very different from wanting to fix something. Make sure this decision is about adding joy.

• Is my home suitable for another dog? Two dogs need space to rest, eat, and decompress separately if needed. Tight quarters can amplify tension fast.

• Does the landlord allow two dogs? Never assume your landlord will allow multiple pets. Breed limits, weight limits, and pet caps are real. The last thing you want is to fall in love and then face a housing issue.

• Am I hoping another dog will fix a behavior problem? A second dog might copy the barking, anxiety, or destruction of your first dog instead of solving it. If behavior problems are already present, fix what’s in front of you first.

• Will each dog get daily one-on-one time? Individual attention for bonding and training matters. If you get two dogs, it’s important to know each dog deserves their own walks, training moments, and connection time. Without it, behavior and relationship issues creep in.

• Can I manage separate training, walks, or feeding if needed? Some dogs can do everything together, but some absolutely cannot, whether it be due to the strength or attention needed. So, be prepared to divide and conquer when necessary.

• Can I afford the added expenses of a second dog? Food, preventatives, grooming, training, boarding — it all doubles when you adopt a second dog. The adoption fee is only a small part of the long-term cost so make sure your budget agrees with your plans.

• Can I handle double the unexpected emergencies? Two dogs means twice the chance of surprise vet visits.

• Is my current dog likely to get along with a second dog? Some dogs thrive with a companion, while others prefer being the only dog. It’s important to know who your dog actually is.

• Is this the right timing, or am I in the middle of a big life change? If you have a new baby, an upcoming move, a job shift, or a renovation on the horizon, it might not be a good time to get a dog. Stability makes introductions and adjustments far easier.

• Do I have the time and energy to care for and train another dog? Training does not magically transfer from one dog to the next. You’re starting fresh. Be ready for the mental and physical lift.

• Does my family/roommate want another dog? Everyone in the household should agree to adopt another dog. Resentment builds fast if not everyone is on board plus the shared commitment makes everything smoother.

• If this doesn’t go smoothly, do I have a plan? Not every adoption goes smoothly. Are you ready to manage, train, or seek professional help if needed? A backup plan protects both dogs and your household.

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Benefits of adopting a second dog

Adopting a second dog is a big decision for most families. Going from one dog to two dogs creates new challenges, but bringing home a second dog can offer plenty of benefits for the entire family. If you’re wondering when to get a second dog, consider some of these upsides:

1. Built-in friends: Two dogs that get along well together always have a friend to play with. It’s nice for dogs to have a companion of the same species, even if they are just snoozing the afternoon away at home. 

2. More exercise: Two active dogs often romp and play together, which helps them get more exercise than they might if they were each on their own. 

3. Twice the love: This one is a benefit for the human family members. Two dogs in the house means twice the snuggles, twice the funny antics, twice the companionship, and twice the love. 

5. Less anxiety: Dogs that are prone to separation anxiety often feel better staying home without their human family if they have a dog friend to hang out with. Bonus if the second dog is calmer than the first, as they can help provide a serene example for the nervous dog. 

6. Saving another life: Adopting a second dog means moving one more dog out of homelessness and into a forever family with people who love them. 

Drawbacks of getting a second dog

Sadly, some people find that they do regret getting a second dog. Not all families can cope with the demands of owning two dogs, and some individual dogs would simply prefer to be the “only dog” rather than have a canine companion. To make sure you don’t end up feeling like getting a second dog was a mistake, consider these potential cons of bringing home dog number two:

Twice the cost

Two dogs means you have to buy twice the food and treats and pay double cost for veterinary care and preventive medications. Also, factor in twice the cost for training, grooming, and boarding and/or pet sitting.

Twice the care

Although most people can usually walk two dogs together, you’ll have to pick up two times as much poop, wash twice as many bowls and bedding, and brush, trim nails, and do other grooming tasks for two rather than one. 

Twice the behavior

If you have a dog that deals with barking, digging, destructive chewing, or other behavioral concerns, your new dog might pick up your old dog’s bad habits. Although getting a second dog can sometimes help dogs with separation anxiety, it’s possible that it could make things worse, or that the new dog might also develop anxiety.

Potential for jealousy or aggression

Not all dogs get along. Introducing a new dog to your existing dog always carries the risk of squabbling or aggression between the dogs. Two dogs might become jealous of each other and compete for your attention. 

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How do I know if my dog would enjoy a second dog?

It can be tricky to figure out if your existing dog would enjoy a friend. If your dog regularly sees other dogs in the neighborhood, out during walks, or at the dog park, pay attention to how they react. Some signs your dog might enjoy a canine buddy include: 

• Seeking interaction with other dogs

• Sniffing and tail wagging

• Play bows and other invitations to play

• Running or chasing other dogs without squabbles

• Relaxed body posture

Some signs your dog might do best as an “only dog” include:

• Ignoring or avoiding other dogs

• Growling or barking at other dogs

• Hair raised on the back

• Tail held between the legs

• Trying to get away from other dogs

If you’re not sure how your dog feels about other dogs, be cautious before adopting a second dog. Arrange a few puppy playdates with friends or relatives to see how your dog reacts to other dogs.

How to choose a second dog to adopt

Once you know your family is ready for another dog, you might wonder when to get a second dog. If you have an adult dog, you can adopt your second dog any time you feel ready. If your first dog is a puppy, it’s best to wait until that dog is one to two years old before bringing home a new dog. This gives you time to bond with your first dog and put your full attention toward training. Once it’s time, consider the following:

Puppy or adult?

There is no wrong choice here, but deciding between adopting a puppy or an adult dog often comes down to your family’s readiness to take on the extra work a puppy needs, such as housetraining, crate training, basic training, and keeping a close eye on the puppy to limit destructive chewing or dangerous situations. It can sometimes be easier for an adult dog to accept a new puppy, but it’s also possible for two adult dogs to get along well if their personalities mesh and they are introduced properly.

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Personality 

When choosing a new rescue dog, carefully consider your existing dog’s personality and evaluate any dogs you’re interested in adopting. Look for a dog with a personality that is complementary to your existing dog’s demeanor. If you have a calm or shy dog, they probably won’t enjoy living with a wild, rambunctious second dog. If your first dog has a ton of energy, choose a second dog with a similar energy level. If possible, find out if the dog you’re considering is known to get along with other dogs. 

Size

It’s not necessary for two dogs to be the exact same size, but huge differences in size — for instance, a Chihuahua and a Mastiff — can be problematic for some dogs. To increase the odds of your two dogs getting along and being able to play safely together, try to keep differences in size minimal. 

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How to introduce a second dog to your household

Bringing home a second dog is an exciting time, but it’s important to go about it carefully. Introducing two dogs properly can be the difference between two dogs that live happily together and dogs that squabble or don’t enjoy each other’s company. Follow these tips for the best chance at success:

Do first introductions on neutral ground.

Choose a place neither dog knows, and have both dogs on leash (one human per dog). Go for a walk together side by side, allowing the dogs to sniff each other and interact at their own pace. Plan on walking up to an hour, and move apart slightly if either dog seems nervous or bothered. Then, slowly move closer together to try again.

At home, put away “high-value” items.

When your new dog first comes home, temporarily remove your existing dog’s toys, chews, and bed so the dogs don’t squabble over them. Later, when you see the dogs are getting along, slowly reintroduce high-value items, making sure each dog has their own.

Go for another walk.

When your second dog comes home, head out with both dogs on a walk around the neighborhood to burn off energy and give them a chance to become reacquainted on more neutral ground. It’s best to have two humans, each holding one leash. 

Separate the dogs initially.

It’s best to temporarily crate or separate the dogs at nap time, bedtime, or any other time you’re not actively supervising. This gives them personal space and allows more time for them to become accustomed to each other. 

Commonly asked questions

What is “second dog syndrome?”

Second dog syndrome is an interesting phenomenon that happens when families adopt a second dog but feel the dog does not live up to the intelligence or obedience of the first dog. This is generally because people make comparisons between the older, trained dog and the new dog, which often needs a lot of training to catch up to the first dog. It’s important to spend time alone with the new dog to give yourself the opportunity to bond with them the same way you bonded with your first dog.

Should I adopt two dogs at once?

Adopting two puppies at once is almost never advised because they tend to bond too closely with each other. Rather than looking to you for guidance and comfort, two puppies often become too dependent on each other and are unable to function as individuals. However, adopting two bonded adult dogs that lived together in a previous home can work out well. 

Are dogs happier with a second dog?

Some dogs are happier with a second dog, and other dogs prefer to be an “only dog.” Before bringing home a second dog, assess whether your existing dog enjoys the company of other dogs to gauge if they might enjoy a canine family member.

References

Getting a second dog

The Pros & Cons of Adding a Second Pet to the Fam

Are Two Really Better Than One?