Toy Puppies Presents: 'Puppy-Dog Tales'

 

 

Second Dog

 

Hi Everyone,

Once again the holidays are almost upon us. I love the Holiday Season, being together with good friends and family, all the gifts and the food… it is my favorite time of the year.

I have been asked a lot recently about the advisability of getting a second dog. I personally haven't had only one dog since 1972. I can't even remember what that is like. Most people think that their dog loves only them and would never accept another dog into their household. This notion, with a few exceptions, is NOT true. Dogs basically like other dogs. As much as you love your dog how would you feel living with only dogs and not having the company of another human? It would be pretty lonely sometimes. Dogs can communicate, interact and play with other dogs in a way that they cannot with a human.

In Many cases there are some good reasons to get a second dog. If you work long hours and are away from home for long periods of time or if you come home tired and don't really feel like crawling around the floor and playing tug-of-war with your dog; another dog might be the solution. Let’s face it, while you are away your dog is lonely and board. He or she might get into mischief, or bark incessantly or lick their feet out of boredom. Another dog would provide an outlet for him or her to exercise and be entertained while you are not home, which accomplishes two things: One, to keep him from doing naughty things out of boredom and two relieve you of the guilt people often feel because their work schedule causes them to leave their dog alone for many long hours.

There are many factors that come into play when considering this move. First, your lifestyle; do you have the time to train a new puppy? Granted it will be easier if your adult dog is already housebroken. The baby will emulate the behavior of the older dog, making training much faster and easier. You still, however, need to have the time to teach and train the new baby proper behavior as you did your older dog.

Another consideration is financial, you will need to finish the vaccinations the puppy needs and provide a proper puppy diet for the new addition. Also consider grooming for two instead of one, heartworm prevention, toys, treats, etc. To me, all this doesn't add up to a roll of pins but to some people it is a consideration.

The question I am asked most frequently is "Will my older dog accept the new puppy, he/she is so spoiled." Remember, Dogs like dogs. Of course, not all breeds are dog social, I would be careful if you own a nasty or truly vicious dog. You must be the judge of your own pet. If he tries to attack any dog he sees he might not be a good candidate for a companion. Most dogs, as a rule love the company of their own kind. The small housedogs I am mostly referring to are the happiest with a friend.
The up side to having two is relieving you of the guilt. "I must rush home from the meeting, my dog is alone. No, I can't meet you for dinner, my dog is alone." Now they have each other to play with. He will get more exercise, eat better and probably be happier in the long run. Don't wait until your dog is very old and sick to get him a friend, do it while he is young enough to enjoy the company. Many veterinarians feel a youngster added to he household adds years of life to your pet.

A companion for your dog may be difficult for some. Here are some observations I've made over the years. I have owned 3 to 11 adults at one time ranging from Dalmatians and Bichons to Teacup Yorkies and Dobermans. Most of the time, I have observed the dogs seem to get along best with another of the same breed or a very dog-social breed likes a Bichon. The sex doesn't seem to matter very much although an active male plays better with another male. A female accepts a male more easily than another female. If you do decide to get a second dog let your breeder help you match temperaments that will complement each other. The size and the sex are less important than the personality. Don't be upset if they don't bond to each other immediately. When you meet a new person it usually takes you some time to get to know them before you become close friends and the same is true for your dog. Don't interfere in their relationship. Let them interact on their own terms. At first they may not seem to like each other, but before long they will become inseparable buddies.

Think about getting your dog a puppy for Christmas. How cute would that be??

HAVE A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY EVERYONE AND KISS THAT PUPPY ONCE FOR ME!

Until next time, remember:
Try to be as wonderful as your dog thinks you are.

 

Warmest Regards,
Myra

 

 

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