The Benefits of Having Multiple Dogs

If you’ve had your dog for a while, you’re probably at the point where you’re considering adopting another one. There’s a lot of speculation on whether or not raising multiple dogs is good, but there are a lot of benefits. 

Socialization

Dogs are historically seen in packs, so being around other dogs is genetically ingrained in their brains. That’s why socialization is one of the most essential parts of training. If dogs aren’t properly socialized, they develop hyper aggression and/or separation anxiety, especially if they’re alone for long periods at a time. Adopting another dog can help fill the need for a pack, even if it’s just a pack of two. Remember, two’s company!

Training

Adopting another dog can make training easier for them – and you! You learn what does and doesn’t work from the first dog, so the trial and error process will be shorter. Not only that, but the older dog will act as a guide to the younger as time goes on. For example, your older dog will teach them the ins and outs of the house schedule, like feeding and potty times. Similarly, potty training will be easier as the potty spots are already marked. Think of it as “monkey see, monkey do.”

Exercise

Most dogs require a lot of time to exercise. You can usually interact with them with long games of fetch or tug-of-war, but even fun games can get tiring. By adopting another dog, you offer Fido a friend who can keep up with him. Someone who has just as much energy and can run with the wind. Having multiple dogs offers them more play options, too. Fetching a ball can get repetitive, but a good game of chase never gets old. 

The Most Important Thing

While there are many benefits, you must also remember that twice the number of dogs means twice the amount of responsibility. You can’t skip out on the training and socialization, or you risk twice the amount of damages. These things take time, and patience is key.