Thinking of adding another puppy to your family? Here are some things to remember.
* Dogs make great companions, for us and for each other, and if you’re busy you might think that getting a second dog will keep your first one amused. Just remember, you are the leader of the pack, and it’s your companionship your pets really want. So spend time with your pets no matter how many you have.
* As a general rule, mixing genders is best, so go for a boy pup if you have a female dog at home and a female pup if your current pet is male.
* Wait until your dog is no longer a pup himself before getting a new pet. You want to make sure your pet is well trained and well established in the family before getting another pup. Two pups together can be more than double trouble. Also, a well-trained pet will make training your new pup easier as your new pet will look to the older dog for guidance on how to behave.
* Don’t expect your pets to share. Before getting a new dog you’ll need to buy new bowls, a bed or kennel, collars, leads and toys for the pup.
* If you’re not adopting a pup but an older pet, make sure the new dog is younger than your current pet. Bringing home an older dog can cause drama.
* Think about your dog’s temperament and aim to get a new pup from a breed of a similar nature. Bringing an energetic, large-breed pup home to your small and quiet pet might be too much for all of you.
