The Pros and Cons of Adopting Two Dogs

Consider the Costs

Dogs can be expensive. When you're deciding on how many to adopt, think about long-term and short-term costs. The basics you'll need to get before bringing them home include dog food, collars and leashes. All of which are relatively inexpensive, though two dogs do consume more food than one! You may want to invest in other items, such as toys (to save money, they can share) and dog beds. Just be considerate of their feelings. If one of the dogs gets protective over a certain toy, it might be best to get a second one for the other one so they do not have to fight over it.

However, long-term you may be spending more money. Consider annual and unexpected veterinarian visits. There are routine office costs and vaccinations needed for both dogs. But dog-related costs aren't the only financial costs to consider. Have you started planning a Caribbean vacation? It may be tough to find someone willing to dog-sit both of them at the same time. If you can't find a sitter, you'll have to board your pups, and the price tag may be prohibitive.

Adopting Both Dogs at the Same Time

Any major transition can stress out dogs, but adopting two pets from the same litter may make them feel less worried with the change of environment. When you bring home two puppies, expect more work up front. Right from the get-go, it's important that your dogs are potty trained and any negative behaviors are addressed. By putting in the time immediately with training, your dogs will be at the same level. Both dogs learn together. Any redirection one dog receives, the other will witness and learn from the behavior modification.

You may find at some shelters that some dogs can only be adopted as a pair. This is typical of dogs that were brought to the shelter as a pair. To help them avoid separation anxiety and other issues, shelters often ask that both of these dogs be adopted together. This can sometimes be a great option for new dog parents as they are getting two dogs that are already socialized with one another, and shouldn't have as many associated behavioral or territorial issues.

Staggering Adult Dog Adoptions

Adopting dogs at different times may be slightly easier on a new pet parent than managing two different personalities and behaviors without any experience. Start training immediately with your first dog, and when you feel he has mastered the skills, then bring the second dog into your home. While all situations are different, the second dog may follow the lead of the first dog, making training easier on you and quicker for him. Vetstreet recommends pairing dogs without too huge of an age gap and with a slight difference in height and size for less chance of competition. For example, if you have a 6-year-old golden retriever, a 4-year-old house-trained bulldog may be a good companion.

Only you will be able to tell whether you're ready to open your home and your heart to one or two dogs. Your lifestyle is unique, and your pup parenting will be too.