Getting a second dog: Double the trouble?

At some stage, most dog owners will consider getting a second pooch. Another dog will provide company while the family isn’t home and if you already have a routine for one dog, adding a second won’t be much more work, right? Sounds great in theory, but in reality, it can be hard work making the pairing a happy one.

Before you buy
Make sure the pooch you have is well trained and socialised. This dog will be the ‘example setter’. If your current pet has behavioural problems, such as nuisance barking, be aware that the new dog may copy the behaviour.

Take time to read up on breeds that are likely to get along with your pet. As a general rule, it is better to get a dog of the opposite sex to the existing one. If you have an older dog, a small, quiet breed will be a better companion than a rowdy puppy of a much larger, active breed.

Meet and greet
You may be able to introduce the dogs in a relaxed manner by just letting them sniff and play. But if you’re not sure how they’ll react, take them for a walk in neutral territory, away from your home. When they show friendly behaviour to each other, move the exercise to your backyard.

It will help if you have some knowledge of dog behaviour and body language. For example, a wagging tail doesn’t always mean a dog is happy – a stiff, straight-up tail that wags is a dominance signal and may be a sign of aggression. If the dog’s tail is held horizontal and wagging, it’s usually a sign all is well. If the dog’s tail is tucked between its legs, this signals fear.

Alpha dog
When the dogs do meet off the leash, they’ll establish who’s dominant – there’s usually neck grabbing and a scuffle. It’s important you always support the dominant dog, or it will continue to challenge the subordinate one.

Feed, pat and give him attention first. Don’t expect dogs to share bedding or food. Also, don’t risk a confrontation by giving them treats, such as raw bones, in the beginning. Once they’ve set up their hierarchy, give them all the treats you want, within reason of course!