Are you thinking of bringing a second dog into your home? It is the best thing you will do. One dog can bring happiness as you have never known before. Two can bring unimaginable happiness. You’ll need to consider a few things if you want to move them in successfully. There is always the worry that they will not like it in your home or that your other dog won’t bond with them.
Bringing a new dog into your home successfully, however, will provide your family with years of wonderful memories. Here’s what you need to be considering if you’re introducing a second dog into your pack.
The First Day and Night
The first day and night are crucial. Your new dog is going to be overwhelmed for at least the first hour or two, perhaps even the first few days. Your old dog is going to be wondering who is in their home. Your priority should be the new dog. Lay down a pet blanket, lots of toys, and give them access to fresh water and tasty treats. Try and make the home as comfortable as possible for them.
Bringing home, a puppy can be stressful. It’s important to give them their space and don’t surround them too much. In regards to your second dog, keep them away from the first dog for the first hour or two so that your new dog can get used to its surroundings. You’re probably getting a second dog because you know your first one absolutely loves dogs and could use a canine friend. That could mean they’re over-excited and may overwhelm the new dog.
Careful introductions are essential and something that will be discussed in the following sections. For the first night, it’s recommended that your canine friends sleep separately. It gives your new dog the chance to have a good night’s rest in their own space.
Separate Spaces
Considering separate spaces for the first few days is essential. It’s easy to think that the two dogs are just going to get on wonderfully, but that’s not always the case. Sometimes, it takes slow introductions, which you can find guidance in the next section and plenty of space. The dog you had first will need their own space and time to acclimatize to a new furry friend in their personal space. Your new dog is going to need the same.
You may find that the two dogs get on perfectly and can sleep in the same room together or be around each other all the time. You may also find that they need their own space to escape each other. If you have an open plan living room, use a utility room or bedroom as a separate space.
Create a sort of time-out space where they can both go to nap or just to feel at peace on their own. Doing this will also prevent any jealousy issues from arising. It is common for the first dog to be a little bit jealous as you have been theirs for so long, and now they have to share you.
Careful Introductions
As mentioned above, it is not always going to be a walk in the park when bringing a new dog home. The best way to ensure everything goes smoothly is to focus on careful introductions because you don’t truly know how your old dog is going to react. They may love dogs, but they might not love one in their home. Experts recommend that you introduce the dogs in the garden. That way, there is plenty of open space for them to sniff each other out and get to know each other.
Try and make the interaction as fun as possible with toys, treats, and plenty of fuss for your first dog. Show them they’re still the alpha and that they have your love and attention. If the introductions do go well, but you feel your first dog is being a little too boisterous, take your new dog inside to remove them from the situation. The more slow and steady the introduction, the more successful it will be. You’ll be able to judge the situation and act accordingly.
Dealing With Jealousy
Jealousy is something you’re most likely going to have to deal with. Whether it be jealousy over human attention, toys, or food, it needs to be dealt with as soon as possible. It’s important to consider that if you’re noticing severe jealousy and aggression towards the second dog, this might not be the right move for your family. As much as you may want a second dog, they have to be a good match for each other.
One thing you can do is use separate feeding areas and to ensure you’re never shutting your first dog out. Jealousy over things like giving fuss is normal, but jealousy over food is a bigger problem to deal with. To reduce the issue, it’s essential to use positive reinforcement for good behavior and ignore bad behavior. Often, jealousy comes from being afraid that they’re losing your love, so show a lot of love!
The Cost of Two Dogs
The cost of two dogs can be high, so it’s important to find ways to reduce expenses. A great tip is to bulk buy dog food online rather than using pet stores. You’ll find much better deals online. The same goes with treats. You’ll find that pet stores are far more expensive than online.
It’s also recommended that you find excellent pet insurance that covers two dogs. Vet bills are extortionate for one dog, let alone two. Certain pet insurers offer reduced premiums for two dogs, which will come in really handy if you do ever have to visit the vets.
Having two dogs really is wonderful. Not only does it bring more joy to your life, but it provides your dog with a canine companion for life. One they can play with, sleep with, fight with, and generally do things that they can’t necessarily do with you, such as rough play. Just make sure you follow the advice above to make sure everything goes smoothly.
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