If you are a dog owner, then you know the joys of dog ownership. In fact, the joys are so rewarding that you are thinking about getting another dog. However, as with anything else, there are advantages and disadvantages to owning multiple dogs. Having more than one dog is a different experience than having just one dog. Here are the pros and cons for you to consider when owning multiple dogs.
Related: Pitbull Puppy Training Tips – A Multiple Pit Home
Pros and Cons of Owning Multiple Dogs
Pros
Companionship is one of the major benefits of owning multiple dogs. If you have just one dog, they may get lonely and bored at times. However, with another companion or two for them to play with, socialize with and sleep with, they will no longer be so bored or lonely. This is especially true if your lone dog is home a great deal of time during the day. They won’t have to sit and wait by the door for someone to come home when they have a friend or two to goof around with.
Another benefit of having multiple dogs in the same home is that they will be less stressed. Dogs that are less stressed are also considered to be healthier in general. The reason for this is that don’t have some of the health problems that lone dogs do such as ear infections and skin problems.
Cons
In the event that you have two or more dogs that behave well, you will still have two times the responsibility. And of course not only two times the responsibility but also two times the cost as well. These costs include veterinary bills, food, medications and personal care items like leashes and shampoos.
With two or more dogs in the household, there is a chance that they may not get along well together. It is entirely possible that your lone dog will not welcome another dog in the house because they don’t like their space being invaded. One dog will establish itself as the “alpha.” If the other dog also wants to be alpha, you can have a problem!
Related: Alpha Dog Training: Help Your Dog See You as the Leader
Overall, the pros of owning multiple dogs often outweighs the cons, as long as you can afford to properly care for all your dogs. It’s twice as rewarding, twice as cuddly and twice as fun!
Do you have any tips or thoughts on owning multiple dogs? Share in the comments!
