Currently tempted by a photo of an irresistibly cute face in an “adoptable dogs” post online? There are several factors that play into the correct answer for the question of, “Should I get another dog?” Here are the boxes to check if you’re thinking of adding another) dog to yours:
- Current Dogs: Is your present canine family peaceful? Do they all get along well, and would they welcome another dog into the group? If the answers are yes, check this box.
- Human Family Members: Will all the human members of your family welcome another dog? If yes, check!
- Time: Adding another dog means finding time for individual attention and training for yet one more canine. If your family members are willing to do this, check!
- Space: Is there room for another crate in the bedroom? Another dog bed in the living room? Another food bowl in the kitchen? Another dog in the car? If yes, check!
- Finances: Estimates on the annual cost of caring for a dog average somewhere between $1500 and $10,000. Do you have room in your budget for another dog? If yes, check!
- Laws: Many communities have laws regulating the maximum number of dogs allowed at a residence. If adopting another dog means you’re still within the legal limit, check!
If you’ve checked all the boxes above, then the answer for you just might be “one more than we have now.” But beware! Some people discover after they get another dog that the right answer to “how many is too many?” was “one more than we have now.” Make sure you’re ready for the added group dynamics, and commitments of time and money – and adopt carefully! See “Selecting Your Next Dog or Puppy.”
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