Is it better to get a puppy or an older dog first?

Adult and Senior Dogs Are Great for First-Time Dog Parents
If this is your first dog, or if you cannot devote the time necessary to train, socialize, and exercise a young or adolescent puppy properly, an adult dog could be a better option for you.


What is the best age to get a second dog?

Many breeders recommend that your first dog be at least one-to-two-years old before you add a second to the family. If you have an old dog, he may not be physically able to play with or tolerate a pup.

What is the most difficult age to get a puppy?

The most challenging time of raising a puppy is the adolescent period. Dogs become “teenagers” and seem to forget everything they have ever been taught. This period is individual to each dog, but it may begin when he's about eight months old and continue until he's two years old.


Will my old dog be sad if I get a puppy?

Many older dogs will be upset, jealous, or even angry with a new puppy, especially if the older dog has been an only dog. It's going to be important to make sure the older dog gets lots (more than normal) of attention to alleviate potential hurt feelings.

Is it unfair to get a puppy with an older dog?

It's not a good idea to get a puppy with an older dog if: Your older dog doesn't like other dogs, and either fears or is aggressive toward them. Your older dog is suffering from failing health, or age-related mental health problems. You can't provide the time and focus required to train the puppy, let alone supervise.


Adopting An Adult Dog Vs. A Puppy | Which is Right For You?



Are dogs happier with another dog?

Dogs are social animals and usually happier around other dogs, but a second dog will never be a substitute for inattentive, absent or too busy owners.

What is second dog syndrome?

In dogdom, there's a turn of phrase called, "Second Dog Syndrome". This describes the process of adding another dog to the home quite well, but not necessarily in a positive light. As humans, we are bound to forget all of the time and effort it takes to raise a puppy right.

What I wish I knew before getting a second dog?

Allocate the Time and Resources for Another Pup

You also have to keep in mind that you'll need to invest extra for essential gear — collars, leashes and crates, to name a just a few items — as well as unexpected vet visits, potential boarding and possible pet sitters and dog walkers.


Will my dog get jealous if I get another dog?

Introduction of a New Pet

Bringing home a new puppy or another adult dog can trigger jealousy in your dog, and they may show signs of aggression toward the new addition. Your dog might growl at the new dog, guard your lap, or try to get in between you and your new furry family member.

How do you know if your dog doesn't like another dog?

  1. growling, snarling or barking.
  2. baring their teeth.
  3. staring directly at another dog.
  4. raised hackles.
  5. ears pointing forward.
  6. stiff tail.
  7. pulling or lunging on the lead.
  8. biting.


What age are puppies the naughtiest?

Undesirable behaviours such as barking, chewing, counter surfing, house-soiling and jumping up commonly begin to occur at around 3-6 months of age.


Is it normal to regret getting a puppy?

It is okay to have feelings of regret about getting a puppy. It doesn't make you a bad person and it doesn't mean you shouldn't have your puppy. Feeling inadequate as a pup parent is quite common, but luckily there are things you can do to help with those feelings!

What age is a puppy worse behaved?

As puppies age, they grow more independent, and by 6-12 months you may notice your once obedient pup is developing some unwanted behaviors. Don't worry, some simple training tips will help you both get through these growing pains.

Is having 2 dogs easier than 1?

Having two dogs can feel like a lot of work sometimes, but the pros definitely outweigh the cons. From easier training to better mental and emotional health (for you and your dogs!), to saving the lives of animals, there are so many solid reasons to adopt a second dog today.


What is the 3 rule for a new dog?

Whether you rescue an older dog or a puppy, a lot of dogs tend to follow the 3-3-3 rule when getting acclimated: 3 days of feeling overwhelmed and nervous. 3 weeks of settling in. 3 months of building trust and bonding with you.

Does having two dogs get easier?

Training is Easier with Two Dogs

Puppies often learn from older dogs. This means that they learn tasks like potty training and basic commands much faster when they have an older dog to model themselves after.

How do I get my older dog to accept a puppy?

Introducing Your Dogs
  1. Find a neutral territory. Before bringing your puppy home, take them and your senior dog to a neutral location. ...
  2. Use a leash. Keep both dogs on a leash with someone calm at the other end. ...
  3. Follow your dog's lead. Some dogs may warm up to one another faster than others.


Is it better to have same gender dogs?

For the happiest dogs and the safest household, opposite sex dogs almost always do best together. Many same-sex combinations of dogs will fight, sometimes to the death. Those who work out a dominance order may not fare much better.

How long does it take for an old dog to accept a new dog?

It can take up to one month for an old dog and new dog to really settle in and accept each other's position in the pack. If you want a second dog, you need to be ready to commit to this process and not panic. Below is info to help you decide whether this step is for you and if so, how to make it successful.

Will my dog feel betrayed if I get another dog?

For example, if you get a new pet and start paying it more attention than your dog, the dog will not feel betrayed in the true sense of the word. However, it may show signs of distress and disappointment because it is suddenly being treated differently or being deprived of something it is used to getting.


Why 2 dogs are better than 1?

Two dogs can share toys, beds, grooming products, water bowls, larger bags of food, and treats. Safer for you and your furry family members. Two dogs protecting the home are better than one. Also, when you have two pups, they will take care of each other.

Will a second dog make my dog less lonely?

And “because dogs are highly social creatures,” Dr. Borns-Weil says, in most cases, “getting another dog is the right thing to do. Dogs in isolation are not happy.” Even if you are home with your dog much of the day, a second dog in the family might very well be the right choice.

Should you have more than 1 dog?

Having a multi-dog home can be great, but it's not for everyone or every dog. Many dogs thrive in a home with other pups, but not all can adjust. For example, if your dog isn't comfortable around other dogs, bringing home another puppy might not be the best choice.


Does my dog want to be an only dog?

Your Dog is a Fan of Other Dogs

If your current pup loves other dogs, it's generally a good sign they'll benefit from having another furry friend in the house. Highly anxious, nervous, or aggressive dogs are probably not the best candidates for adding another dog into the mix.

Does having 2 dogs help separation anxiety?

Getting your dog a companion usually doesn't help an anxious dog because their anxiety is the result of their separation from you, not just the result of being alone.
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