When you have two dogs at home, they won't be lonely. Playing together helps them keep fit and happily busy. Photo: 123rf.com
Two dogs cost twice as much to keep – in terms of food, vet bills and maintenance. However, there are some important factors to consider.
Dogs are social. In the wild, dogs live in packs. They live together, eat together and sleep together. They form strong bonds and act like family, even if they're not always related.
While some older pet dogs are "only dogs", a typical dog is used to doggy company. A dog that is adopted with a sibling or friend will be happier because it gives them someone to play with.
This is especially important if you work or aren't at home all the time. Single pets can suffer from separation anxiety, a difficult and unhappy situation that can be prevented by providing your dog with a pal.
There are also two big bonuses. First, dogs have a lot of energy. When you have two dogs, they wrestle, chase each other and provide lots of wild doggy games. It helps them keep fit and happily busy.
Second, dogs are competitive, just like kids. So when you're training, the dog that gets it first will show off – and help you train the other one. Also, at mealtimes, a little sibling jealousy will have them piling into their bowls, which means less chance of having a picky eater.
Bottom line: If you can, adopting two dog friends is better than one.
