Should I Get a Second Dog to Keep My Anxious Dog Company?
Should I Get Another Dog to Keep My Anxious Dog Company?
Are you thinking about adding another dog to help ease your anxious dog’s home alone worries? Before you make a decision, it’s important to understand the potential benefits as well as the risks involved when you add a dog to help with your current dog’s separation anxiety.
While some dogs may find comfort in the presence of another canine companion, there’s no guarantee it will fix separation anxiety. In fact, having two dogs can sometimes lead to both experiencing anxiety, as one will feed off the other.
Seek professional help from a CSAT to address your current dog’s separation anxiety before considering another dog. Remember, getting another dog should be a personal choice based on your desire for companionship and ability to meet both dogs’ needs.
In this article we’ll get into some of the myths and truths about a second dog being a fix for separation anxiety.
The Myth of a Second Dog as a Solution
Of course, getting another dog might provide companionship for your anxious dog, but it’s important to recognize that it isn’t a guaranteed solution for their separation anxiety. Dogs are more bonded to their humans than to other dogs, so having a second dog may not alleviate their anxiety. In fact, having two dogs can result in both dogs experiencing separation anxiety.
It’s also important to note that the presence of another animal is unlikely to ease the distress of separation anxiety. Dogs learn behavior from one another, including anxious behavior. An anxious dog may teach a new dog that being anxious when left alone is normal. Additionally, there’s no guarantee that two dogs will get along or become friends.
It’s crucial to resolve the current dog’s separation anxiety before considering another dog. Seek help from a qualified separation anxiety trainer who can provide valuable expertise in helping your dog overcome anxiety. Remember, getting another dog shouldn’t be seen as a solution, but rather a decision made out of a genuine desire for companionship and love.
Dogs Learn Behaviour From Each Other
When considering getting another dog to keep your anxious dog company, it’s important to understand that dogs learn behavior from each other, anxious behaviour included! This means that if your current dog has separation anxiety, there’s a possibility that the new dog will develop the same anxious behavior.
Considerations Before Getting a Second Dog
Before getting a second dog to keep your anxious dog company, there are several important considerations to think about:
- Resolve the current dog’s separation anxiety before considering another dog. It’s so important to address the root cause of the anxiety rather than relying on another dog as a solution.
- Consider the age of the second dog. Puppies require a lot of time and attention, and you’ll want to make sure your current dog can handle a bouncy and energetic puppy, perhaps they were enjoying their retirement and could do without a newbie moving in.
- Be aware of the emotional baggage that foster or rescue dogs may bring. They may come with their own anxieties or behavioural issues that could potentially worsen the situation for your current dog. Eek!
Seek Professional Help for Separation Anxiety
If you’re struggling as you have a dog with separation anxiety then enlist the help of a professional. Seeking help from a qualified certified separation anxiety trainer (CSAT) is the best way to address and overcome this issue. A trainer can provide expertise and guidance in developing a bespoke behaviour mofication programme and separation anxiety trainer protocol for your dog. Training, not getting another dog, is the most effective approach to help your dog overcome separation related problems.
While getting another dog may seem like a solution, it isn’t guaranteed to alleviate your dog’s anxiety. Remember that adding another dog comes with additional obligations and responsibilities. Make the decision to get another dog because you genuinely want one, not as a solution to a current problem.
Seek professional help to ensure the well-being and long-term happiness of your anxious dog.
Factors to Consider Before Getting a Second Dog
When considering getting a second dog, it is important to take into account several factors before making a decision. Evaluating these factors will help ensure that both you and your current dog are prepared for the addition of another pet. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
Factors to Consider
- Assess the specific needs and temperament of your current dog
- Evaluate your own ability to provide adequate time, attention, and resources for two dogs
- Consider the potential impact on your household and daily routine
- Research and understand the potential challenges of introducing a new dog to your home
- Consult with a certified separation anxiety trainer before making a decision
Potential Benefits of a Second Dog
If I haven’t put you off getting a second dog, hurrah, because there are some benefits! Having a second dog can provide companionship and reduce feelings of loneliness for your dog, they’re social creatures after all and having one of their own species can be nice to have around. Here are some potential benefits of getting a second dog:
Companionship: The presence of another dog can offer your anxious dog a constant companion, which can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and provide comfort.
Distraction: A second dog can distract your anxious dog from their separation-related behaviours, as they may focus more on interacting and playing with their new furry friend.
Positive Role Model: In some cases, a second dog can serve as a positive role model for your anxious dog, teaching them how to cope better with their anxiety and providing a sense of security.
While these benefits are possible, it’s important to remember it’s not a fix or guaranteed solution for separation anxiety. It’s essential to address and resolve your current dog’s separation problems before considering adding another dog to your household. Seek guidance from a certified separation anxiety trainer to ensure the best outcome for both dogs, honestly we are here to help!
Alternatives to Getting a Second Dog
Of course, you don’t have to get a second dog full-time, how about a part-time doggy guest, or playdates? Consider alternative options instead of getting a second dog to fix your anxious dog. While getting another dog may seem like such a simple solution, there are other approaches to consider.
- Dog sharing opportunities: Explore the possibility of sharing your dog with a friend who has a dog that gets along well with yours have playdates and sleepovers. This can provide companionship for your anxious dog without the commitment of getting another dog permanently, and can be a really useful experiment in getting a second dog too.
- Foster a dog: Consider fostering a dog to evaluate compatibility before committing to adoption. This allows you to see if having another dog in the house helps alleviate your dog’s anxiety without the long-term commitment.
- Work with a trainer: A qualified CSAT dog trainer can help develop a comprehensive separation anxiety treatment plan for your current dog. They can guide you in addressing and resolving the underlying anxiety before considering a second dog.
Importance of Making an Informed Decision
To make the best decision for your sep anx dog, it’s crucial to gather all the necessary information and consider the long-term implications of adding another dog to your household. Bringing a second dog into your home should be driven by a genuine desire for companionship and love, rather than as a solution to your current dog’s home alone behaviour.
Understand the time, financial, and emotional responsibilities that come with adding a new dog to your family. Seek guidance from a certified separation anxiety trainer to ensure the best outcome for both dogs.
Patience and understanding are crucial when implementing lifestyle changes for dogs with separation-related anxiety. Prioritize the well-being and mental health of your current dog before making any decisions about getting a second dog.
Should I get a second dog to keep my anxious dog company?
Another dog can provide companionship and help alleviate stress and anxiety, but it can also pick up on your dog’s home alone worried and you can end up with two dogs with separation related problems, not one!
What are the reasons to get a second dog?
The main reasons are because you want to provide companionship for your current dog, and you’d like to own two dogs. Getting another dog to help your dog cope with separation related problems is risky, especially if they are experiencing severe separation anxiety.
Can getting another dog really help with my dog’s stress and anxiety?
The presence of another dog can provide comfort and a sense of security, hso may help with general anxiety issues but generally dogs want a human for support not another dog.
What type of dog should I get as a second companion for my current dog?
The type of dog you should get depends on several factors, including the temperament and energy level of your current dog. It’s important to choose a dog that will get along well with your existing dog and complement their personality. Don’t get a puppy Terrier when you already have a sedate or grumpy senior!
Is adding a second dog to the family a cure for separation anxiety?
No, while dogs often like the company of other dogs it’s no cure all for resolving separation anxiety, it is not a guaranteed cure. Separation anxiety is a complex issue and will require additional training and behaviour modification techniques.
What should I consider before getting another dog to help my current dog?
Before getting another dog, consider your current dog’s personality and temperament. It’s important to choose a dog that will get along well with your current dog and be a good fit for your household. Additionally, make sure you have the time, resources, and commitment to properly care for multiple dogs.
Can getting another dog worsen my current dog’s anxiety issues?
It is possible that adding another dog to your household can cause some stress or anxiety for your current dog, after all they may have been used to having you all to themselves and now they have to share!
Should I adopt a second dog or buy one from a breeder?
The decision to adopt or buy a second dog is a personal one. Adopting a second dog can save a life and give a homeless dog a second chance. However, if you have specific preferences in terms of breed or lineage, buying a dog from a reputable breeder may be more suitable for you. Fostering may be better as you can see if the dogs get on together before making a big commitment.
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