Rocco and Chloe sleeping
I was just reading on a dog owners forum about how many dogs different families have. It was interesting to see what people had to say.
I have two dogs and I think I would like to always have two dogs. Rocco is a boxer, young, playful and in your face! Chloe is a lab mix, older, calm, sweet and so patient with Rocco. I think they enjoy each others company. I am sure that Chloe would rather be left alone at times, but overall, I think she loves Rocco. When she has had enough of him, or when she doesn’t want to be bothered, she lifts her lip and growls at him. He backs off!
On many occasions I find them cuddled up together sleeping. It is so cute. I think having two dogs also gives the dogs companionship during the day. What do they do when we are not home? Im not sure. They probably lay on the couch and sleep much of the day. They also spend a good part of the day watching the yard. We have open space around us, and they watch for intruders to chase away. Rocco loves to chase bunnies and squirrels. Chloe seems to go after birds.
Since Chloe is getting older, she doesnt enjoy roughhousing, while Rocco would love it. I think when we get our next dog, I will get them closer in age. I think that would make them each happier. Chloe was very motherly towards Rocco when he was a pup. We got him when he was about 10 weeks old. Chloe showed him how to go outside and go potty, she growled when he was doing something wrong, when we went for rides in the car, she would use her body as a seatbelt to keep him safe.
I am glad our two dogs are a similar size. I dont think its a necessity, but it is easier when we go for walks. I see people with a big dog and a small one and they look like they have a hard time.
I have read that its better for your second do to be the opposite sex as the first dog. That makes a lot of sense. If they are both the same sex, they will have to determine who is the alpha dog, and who is not. This may result in fights among the dogs, and a hard time getting along. Some dogs may get overly aggressive or way too passive after the fight for dominance. Its not always the case, but if you can avoid this situation, that would be a good idea.
Is it easier to have two dogs vs. one dog? No. There are now two pets that need love and attention. One is generally more jealous (Rocco) and makes it hard for Chloe to get attention. We make it work, of course. Training is harder with more than one dog. They dont have the same training needs, but they are both around all the time so both need to be included. When one is ill or hurt, its hard to keep the other dog from bothering them without isolating them.
There are many things to consider when deciding how many dogs you want to have. I recommend reading lots of information, listen to experienced dog owners, and make the decision that works best for your family. To me having two dogs means double the puppy dog love!
Rocco using Chloe as a pillow
