Dogs bring so much joy into our lives. They become part of your family. That’s why two dogs are often better than one! Double the cuteness and double the fun, but also twice the responsibility. How do you know if you should get a second Chihuahua?
Nine things to consider before getting another Chihuahua
There are many things to consider before getting a companion dog. Make sure your family dynamic is correct. Will your family members be on board living in a multi-dog household? Consider your first dog and how it will feel. Also, consider the size of your home and the time you have to train another dog potentially. Think about these things before you purchase a second Chihuahua.
1. What’s your reason for wanting a second Chihuahua?
Genuinely think about your reasons for wanting another canine companion. Make sure everyone in your family wants another dog, not just one person in your family. Ultimately you’ll all be sharing responsibilities with this new Chihuahua. Make sure your reasoning is suitable for your family and not just for you. You also need to consider your other dog. Will your current dog enjoy having a new friend, or will it cause more problems?
2. Will you be able to walk two Chihuahuas at once?
If you’re a dog walker and often take your dogs on walks, you’ll want to make sure you can walk both dogs at once. Make sure your first dog walks ok with another dog and that this will be something you can handle. You will need to train both dogs to walk with each other. Get the proper leash and harness for your new dog so you can walk them at the same time.
3. How will you travel with two Chihuahuas?
If you travel for work, take weekend trips, or go on vacations, think about how having two pets will affect that. If you have to leave your dogs behind, can you afford the care for a sitter or a kennel? Doggy daycare can cost anywhere from $15-$40 a night, times that by two. If you can’t afford doggy daycare, you’ll need to find someone willing to do twice the amount of work and watch both of your dogs. This can be expensive and get complicated.
4. Do you have time to care for another Chihuahua?
Having one dog is hard enough, but do you have time to take care of another dog? Dogs require a daily schedule, especially a new puppy, and you will now have two dogs to walk, play with and take care of. If you have any significant events coming up in your life, you may want to consider holding off on getting another dog. Pet owners should understand that dogs take time and effort, which should be regarded when considering getting another pet.
5. Can you afford to have another Chihuahua?
Dogs cost money. And two dogs can cost a lot more money than you expect. Double the food and double the vet bills. You’ll need another collar, leash, dog bed, crate, etc. Medical expenses come up with dogs. Make sure you look at your budget and decide if you can afford any unplanned costs that may come with adding a second Chihuahua.
6. Do you have enough room for two Chihuahuas?
Someone with a smaller home or apartment should consider if they have room for a second pet. Depending on the breed, dogs need an area to play and run. If your family and another dog already take up most of your home, then maybe another dog isn’t right for you. Consider the activity level of your current dog and what the new dog will bring. Do you have a room? Is there a noise ordinance where you live? Make sure you get a breed that won’t be too loud for your home.
7. What’s your plan for training the new Chihuahua?
Whether you get a rescue dog or a puppy, your new pet might need additional training. Even if you get an older dog, they might need training. Make sure you have the time to train your new pet and that it won’t interfere with any other activity you may have with your other dog. If you’re already training a dog, make sure you can introduce two pets simultaneously.
8. Will the breeds be compatible?
You will want to consider the breed when you get another dog. Do your research and ask your veterinarian if the breed of your first dog will be compatible with your second dog. Many dog breeds are consistent with one another. Some species that generally get along are Basset Hounds, Goldendoodles, Cocker Spaniels, and Great Danes. If you have a calmer or small dog, ensure they will be compatible with the other dog.
9. Will the genders be compatible?
There isn’t a set rule on which genders will match if you get another dog, but it’s generally easier to get dogs of different sex. Same-sex combinations can be harder to manage. There may be disagreements with your same-sex dogs because they’ll try to work out the order of the pack when the new dog arrives.
When you should not get a second Chihuahua
You may ask yourself, “When should I get another dog?” Just like having a second child, there is never a right time, but there may be a time in your life that’s easier to make the transition from one dog to two.
The ages are too far apart.
Consider your current dog’s age. Before getting a second Chihuahua, you’ll want to ensure the pups’ ages aren’t too far apart. Getting a young puppy may not be a good match if you already have a senior dog. Older dogs often like to sleep and relax, whereas young dogs are full of energy and want to play. Your older dog may feel your new dog is too overwhelming and could cause more stress than good.
They have different energy levels.
Try to pick a dog with the same energy level as your current dog. Check out their breeds, research personalities, and consider your current dog when choosing a new pup. A more giant dog with lots of energy may not be suitable around a tiny dog who can’t keep up. If you’re worried about their energy levels matching, fostering a dog may be a good idea before you keep one.
Your current Chihuahua is aggressive around other dogs.
Your dog’s behavior is an essential factor. If your dog has aggression towards other dogs, you should avoid getting another dog. If you notice your dog gets agitated at the dog park or doesn’t interact well with other pups, then it’s likely bringing another dog into your home won’t work out.
