Having two dogs is usually less than twice the work but about twice the cost. Daily routines like walks, feeding and playtime can often be shared once both dogs are settled, but food, vet bills, insurance and boarding roughly double, and the first few months take extra effort for training and helping the dogs get used to each other. It's hardest when the dogs don't get along or when you get two puppies at once.
In this post, we’ll take a detailed look at the pros and cons of owning two dogs so you can decide whether it’s right for you and your furry family.
What Are the benefits of Having Two Dogs?
There are a number of advantages to having two dogs instead of just one. Let’s take a look.
Pros of having 2 dogs
- Your Dog Always Has a Playmate
- They Keep Each Other Company
- They Can Help Each Other With Training
- Providing Comfort
1Your Dog Always Has a Playmate
If you have two dogs, they’ll always have each other to play with. This can be a great way to tire them out so they’re less likely to be destructive indoors. Dogs are social creatures by nature, so having another dog around will help fulfill their needs for companionship and play.
2They Keep Each Other Company
If you have to leave your dogs home alone for a few hours, many dogs are less bored and lonely when they have each other for company. Don't count on a second dog to cure true separation anxiety, though. Dogs with separation anxiety are usually distressed about being away from their person, not about being alone, so a second dog often doesn't help, and the newcomer may even pick up the anxious behavior.
3They Can Help Each Other With Training
A calm, well-trained older dog can be a good role model for a new dog, for example by showing it where to go potty or how to settle in the house. Keep in mind that dogs copy bad habits as easily as good ones, such as barking at the door. Most trainers recommend training each dog separately at first, then practicing together once both know the basics.
4Providing Comfort
When you lose a dog, it’s absolutely devastating. But if you have another dog, they can often help ease the pain by providing companionship and love during this tough time.
What Are the drawbacks of Having Two Dogs?
Of course, there are also some disadvantages to having two dogs instead of just one. Let’s take a look.
Cons of having 2 dogs
- It's More Expensive
- You Need to Exercise Them Both
- They Might Not Get Along
- Travelling is more difficult
1It's More Expensive
Having two dogs means roughly twice the vet bills, food costs, insurance premiums, boarding fees and so on. Make sure you could also cover an unexpected vet bill for both dogs at once. This can be a big financial burden, especially if you’re already on a tight budget.
2You Need to Exercise Them Both
If you have two dogs, you’ll need to make sure they both get enough exercise. If they walk nicely on a leash and have similar energy levels, you can walk them together; if one is a young, high-energy dog and the other is a senior, you may need separate walks. It can be a lot of work, especially if you’re already short on time.
3They Might Not Get Along
Just because two dogs are of the same breed doesn’t mean they’ll necessarily get along. Some dogs simply prefer to be the only dog, and two dogs of the same sex and similar age are more likely to clash. This can make life difficult, especially if you’re trying to train them or care for them both at the same time. Competition over food and toys is common; see why your dog always wants what the other dog has.
4Travelling is more difficult
If you like to travel, it’s worth noting that it’s usually easier to do so with just one dog. Many pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals limit the number or size of dogs per room, so you’ll either need to find a place that allows two dogs or make other arrangements, and pet sitters and kennels usually charge per dog. Flying is trickier too, so check which airlines allow large dogs in cabins before you book.
Should you get another dog?
At the end of the day, only you can decide whether or not having two dogs is right for you. If you have the time, energy, and resources to care for two dogs, then it can be a great experience for both you and your furry friends. But if you’re already struggling to keep up with one dog, it might be best to stick with just one for now. If you are considering an adult dog, read our pros and cons of retired breeding dogs.
If you do decide to get another dog, be sure to introduce them slowly and carefully to make sure they get along. Start by having them meet on neutral ground, such as a quiet street or park (a busy dog park can be overwhelming), and walk them side by side on loose leashes with plenty of space between them before letting them greet.
If they seem to get along well, then you can bring the new dog home. Pick up toys, chews and food bowls at first to avoid squabbles, feed the dogs separately, and give each dog its own space to retreat to. Many trainers also advise against getting two puppies at the same time, because they can bond so strongly with each other that training them becomes much harder. But if they don’t seem to get along, it might be best to rethink your decision. After all, you want your dogs to be happy and safe, so it’s important to make sure they’re compatible before making any commitments.
The bottom line is that there are both pros and cons of having two dogs. It’s important to weigh these carefully before making a decision, as it’s a big commitment. But if you think you’re ready for the extra work, then go ahead.
Final thoughts
So there you have it! These are some of the pros and cons of having two dogs. Be sure to weigh all of these factors carefully before making a decision. And if you do decide to get another dog, be prepared for some extra work and responsibility. But in the end, it’ll all be worth it when you see how much happiness they bring into your life.
