Hello friends! My partner and I are currently debating on getting another dog, but we’re unsure if it’s the right move. We have three cats, a medium-sized dog, and a small aquarium with a beta and snail. Our outside cat technically belongs to the neighbors down the street but prefers the setup we have for her here. The decision came when we left our dog with my in-laws, and she bonded with their dog. She was sad coming home and not having her friend to play with. Our in-laws live a good distance away, so taking her to and from for playdates is not ideal. We have the means to care for another dog and we do have the space as well, a large backyard and long home. The only thing stopping us is the idea of owning 6 pets (not including the outside cat) and how others, mostly family, will view this decision, as we don’t have any children and don’t see it happening anytime soon.
It’s not up to us. Can you afford another one? Can you provide money for their vet bills and basic care? Do you have the ability to split your attention evenly across a new pet? If the answer is yes to all of this, then you can get one if you want. But you make that decision yourself.
@Nico
That makes sense. I want to make sure we can handle another dog without compromising care for the others.
It sounds like you have the space and love to care for another dog, and it could really benefit your current dog’s happiness. If you’re ready for the responsibility, I think it’s a wonderful idea!
Find an adult dog at a shelter or through a rescue. Have a play date with your dog to make sure they’re compatible. If you can afford food and vet bills, dogs always do better with a playmate.
If you have to ask others or even yourself, then it may not be the best time. I do that with everything I get. If I have to think on something, then I don’t get it.
I got my dog a companion puppy for Christmas… she loves her. So I’d say yes… from a person with 11 cats, 1 cockatiel, and … now, 2 dogs.
You’re assuming whatever dog you bring home she will like and won’t be aggressive to her. What will happen if she doesn’t get along with the new one?
Devin said:
You’re assuming whatever dog you bring home she will like and won’t be aggressive to her. What will happen if she doesn’t get along with the new one?
Thankfully, our girl is very well socialized. She’s good with people and other dogs as well.
I noticed that a lot of people talk about resources, but my decision was based on time. If you and your husband can give another dog a loving home, then do it. Your home, your life, and your decisions. Ignore anything or anyone outside it.
No, it is not acceptable. Once you get past two fur-bearing animals indoors, you start to develop indoor air pollution problems for all creatures that are trying to breathe that air.
If you have the means, and if you’ve given thought to the extra time one more pet will mean, then I say go for it. Your current dog will be so happy!
I’d recommend a shelter that lets you do test runs. It sounds like your dog would love a friend and that you are able to provide a great home for one.
Things to consider: vet bills are now in the stratosphere. If and when a pet needs healthcare, will you be able to afford it?
Do it!! Adopt a friend for your puppers. Make sure you get one that meets the same energy level and play style.
There’s nothing a dog loves more than their people, but a dog buddy comes in a very close second. If you can, look into a dog of the opposite sex as they sometimes click better.
Have you checked out local doggy daycares? We take our boy 2-3x each week just to socialize with other dogs. He loves it and comes home tired.
Can you afford them? Can you give them the time/attention/medical care they all need? If all of these are yes, go for it.
How much do you currently do with your dog every day? Exercise and enrichment-wise?