The Scoop On Raising Multiple Pets: What Every Pet Owner Cannot Afford To Overlook

Having one dog is great, having two can be wonderful! Often, it is hard to introduce a new pooch to an existing one, but it is not impossible. If you know before getting a dog that you want two eventually, then it is a good idea to start with two. They are easier to train together and will more likely get along. To help you start your search, there are certain breeds that love the companionship of other dogs.

Starting with two puppies is easier than bringing in another dog later. You can train the two together, and they learn how to socialize from an early age. Two dogs take a lot of time and attention on your part. However, they can keep each other company when you are away and play and exercise with each other. It is natural for two dogs to fight. But, excessive and aggressive fighting is a problem. At the beginning, one dog will establish dominance and leadership over the other. From that point, the second dog will become more submissive and fighting will decrease. Play bites and nips are nothing to worry about!

When considering two dogs, you are probably concerned with gender. Many experts suggest getting one male and one female pooch, but any combination can work. The decision is up to you, but it can often depend upon the breed of dog. Once you find the perfect breed for you, do a little research on the dog’s temperament. You may find that you prefer female over male, or vice versa, and thus pick your pair.

It is common to find hunting breeds in pairs, but that does not mean that you have to hunt with them! Many hunting breeds were bred to hunt in packs, so they naturally get along well. If you are looking for a working pair, then consider getting two Scottish Deerhounds. Like the name, these dogs are great for hunting deer. They can work alone, but enjoy pack hunting. They have medium energy levels, and require a good amount of exercise. Because of this, they are not suited for apartment living. They are, however, great with children.

Scottish Terriers are also hunting dogs with medium energy levels. If you are not looking for a hunting dog, then still consider terriers; they make great watch dogs. Unlike the Scottish Deerhounds, the terriers can live in apartments. They enjoy the company of other dogs, but usually bond to one family member. Scottish Terriers are not ideal for families with children.

If you are looking for a smaller pair, then consider Dachshunds. Dachshunds are also hunting dogs, though they are usually used to track vermin. Like the Scottish Terriers, Dachshunds usually bond with a particular family member, but they enjoy activities with the whole family. Don’t be fooled by their small size, Dachshunds have medium to high energy levels and enjoy plenty of exercise!

Golden Retrievers are family favorites! They are very loving and get along extremely well with children. They are extremely well-tempered and easy to train. Golden Retrievers are also very adaptable to living conditions. As long as they get an adequate amount of exercise, they can live in apartments or large homes.

If you want hypo-allergenic dogs, then consider the Standard Schnauzer. These dogs require a fair amount of grooming because of their long, thick coat, but they rarely shed. They have high energy levels, but can live in any size home. Standard Schnauzers are great with children and can make good watch dogs.

There are many other breeds that get along well with each other. If acquired as puppies, you will have fewer problems with them getting along. Don’t be alarmed by fighting here and there; it is the dogs’ way of establishing a leader and playing! A dog bred for hunting normally likes the companionship of another pooch, because they are bred to work in pairs or packs. If you have children, then you should consider a Scottish Deerhound, Gold Retriever, or Standard Schnauzer. Scottish Terriers, on the other hand, are not ideal for children, but they do make great watch dogs! No matter what type of dog you are looking for, make sure you do research on the breed before you bring home a pair!