Pros and Cons of Multi-dog ownership?

[GreyhoundGirl]

I'm really only at the "interested" stage now... ;) But I was really looking for some info on some pros and cons of adding a second dog. Jenny has only ever been in a one-dog household. I've never been responsible for more than one dog (at a time.)


First off, will Jenny get bad ideas if the other dog isn't as well trained as her? Say, it doesn't come when called, will Jenny stop coming when called?

What changes? Like what is the difference, walking one dog compared to walking two?

Will it not be as attatched to me as Jenny is?

Now, whenever we watch a movie, Jenny will quietly lie on her bed. If we got another dog, would they both lie down, or would they be up playing with each other?

How do you keep the fastest eater from fighting for the others remaining food? Or would they not be able to both eat in the kitchen? (my mom isn't fond of the idea of them not eating in the kitchen, because it would ruin the carpet)

Would they fight over the 'best' seat in front of the fire?

How do you tell the difference between play, fighting for dominence, and 'real' fighting?

And a biggie, because I've heard a lot of different opinions on this one: Are two dogs not much more work (than one dog is) or a LOT more work (than one dog is) ?

Sorry for all the questions, but if I do add another I want to know what I'm in for. :)

[Kfamr]

First off, will Jenny get bad ideas if the other dog isn't as well trained as her? Say, it doesn't come when called, will Jenny stop coming when called?

Most likely, the new dog will learn from Jenny, not the other way around. My older three are teaching Mufasa more and more everyday.


What changes? Like what is the difference, walking one dog compared to walking two?

Depends on how strong you are and how patient. For me, walking two dogs at a time isn't hard. However, I'd never attempt all 4.
I walk Simba and Nala, then Kiara and Mufasa.
Their personailities differ so much, so that's where patience is needed.
Simba wants to stop and pee on everything, Nala wants to keep going.
Mufasa wants to sniff, play, bark, etc. at everything, Kiara is freaked out and wants to keep walking.



Will it not be as attatched to me as Jenny is?

It depends on your relationship with Jenny. Nothing should change between the two of you unless you change it. Each of the bonds between my dogs are the same as they were.

Now, whenever we watch a movie, Jenny will quietly lie on her bed. If we got another dog, would they both lie down, or would they be up playing with each other?

Also depends on the personaility of the new dog. Mine, including Moo, know when playtime is and when it isn't. A quick "knock it off, lay down" is all it takes for them to cool it for the night.



How do you keep the fastest eater from fighting for the others remaining food? Or would they not be able to both eat in the kitchen? (my mom isn't fond of the idea of them not eating in the kitchen, because it would ruin the carpet)

This is something my dogs have formed by themselves. All 4 have a different spot in the kitchen to eat in. When the food comes out, each of them goes and sits or stands infront of their bowl.

The only time they enter eachothers spot is when everyone is finished - Mufasa likes to lick the bowls. When he first entered our home, he would get in their faces and try to eat their food. However, they each have told him off and they learned.


Would they fight over the 'best' seat in front of the fire?
I'd imagine most dogs don't fight over the "best" seat in front of the fire. Kiara and Nala both love the doggie bunk bed. They often cuddle up together in the same bed with no problems.



How do you tell the difference between play, fighting for dominence, and 'real' fighting?

You will learn how to tell the difference and learn their body language with eachother.






When adding another dog it's best to know what your dog gets along with. When going to parks/interacting with other dogs, does she get along with the dominant dog or the submissive dog? Does she prefer dogs larger than her or smaller? Younger or older? These are questions you need to ask yourself and watch for when she is with other canines.

[luvofallhorses]

do obdience classes and I am sure Jenny will still come when called. :)[color]

[color=magenta]you'll have to exercise them both the same.

Will it not be as attatched to me as Jenny is?

It depends on the dog. :)


Again, it depends on the dog. the dog has to get used to the surroundings first. :)



It's simple. feed them seperately so nothing happens. :)

Would they fight over the 'best' seat in front of the fire?

probably not, but maybe the best seat on the couch or floor or bed. ;)


you'll know the difference. if it's dominance it's not exactly "fighting" and fighting is when it's not playing, but more serious.



[color=magenta]try having four dogs. ;) I don't think 2 is A LOT of work, IMO anyways but you have another mouth to feed, to exercise, play with, etc. I think Jenny would love to have a playmate. :)



Don't ever be sorry for asking too many questions. actually there is no such thing as too many questions. :D

[GreyhoundGirl]

Thanks so much, you have no idea how helpful this will be for me. :D

I thought of one more question... has anyone ever brought a dog from a really warm climate to a really cold climate? The dog that sparked my intrest is from a track in florida, I'm starting to wonder how she might cope with the -30F temperatures in winter. I've heard stories from areias of Romeo being cold at +40F. And he'd have a thicker coat than a greyhound would. Of course, I'd buy her a coat, but would her legs and such get cold?

In her profile it says : "She walks well on lead and eats like a champ but isn't so sure about that cold white stuff that falls outside." Would this mean she'd be terrified the first snowfall?

Thanks :)

[Kfamr]

I'd imagine it'd be a bit different for her at first, however, I'm sure she'd be able to adapt. Dogs are pretty adaptable animals. The only issue being transporting her from FL to you. ;)

[GreyhoundGirl]

She's already in NY. ;)

I might as well give you a link to the girly I'm interested in (she's the 2nd one, Booboo ) http://www.greyhoundrescuerehab.org/available.html

[borzoimom]

Michy- I have always found that multiple dogs do better than singles. They learn to play, and try as I might- I can not play like a dog would. Introductions are critical, but I can help you with that. Also the few days, take things slow.
Dogs are companion animals and pack animals too. IMO multiple dogs live longer, happier, and not to mention- more entertaining for us.. lol. I have found the new comer learns from the " other ones." To me its actually faster to train a dog with another dog in the house that knows the rules as dogs follow suit.

[GreyhoundGirl]

http://www.greyhoundrescuerehab.org/images/adoptables/booboo2.jpg

That's the second picture of her. ;)

[Crikit]

If you take the time to build the bond between the two of you then yes it could be. I have a bond with each of my dogs and with all five of them the bond is different but it is still there.

Now, whenever we watch a movie, Jenny will quietly lie on her bed. If we got another dog, would they both lie down, or would they be up playing with each other?

It could be a little from column A a little from column B. At the moment as I type this three of the four boys are on the couch curled up together sleeping while Winter is sleeping on the computer bed beside me, while Kizmit is happily asleep in his kennel. However an hour ago I was watching tv in another room and they were all happily romping around the room with the toys together. So really it all depends on what they feel like doing at the time. I have a feeling though that because you are looking for at a greyhound for your next dog there is a strong possibility that it will be more from column A and less from column B.

How do you keep the fastest eater from fighting for the others remaining food? Or would they not be able to both eat in the kitchen? (my mom isn't fond of the idea of them not eating in the kitchen, because it would ruin the carpet)

In my house all the dogs except for Kiz eat in the kitchen when I or my parents feed them. At that time we have a set routine on whose bowl is placed down first, what they have to do get it put down and where it goes as well. At first we would have problems with the dogs trying to eat each others food when they were finished but in time they have learned that once they are done eating they leave the kitchen until all the other dogs are done eating. It probably helps that the dogs are always fed after we ourselves have finished eating so someone is usually in the kitchen with them making sure they all mind their p's and q's. When I'm dogsitting at a friends or someone else is feeding the dogs other then myself or my folks the dogs are then fed in their kennels.

Would they fight over the 'best' seat in front of the fire?

More then likely if they get along they'll end up sharing the best seat in the house. I often see my dogs curled up together on the dog beds or on the couch together.


How do you tell the difference between play, fighting for dominence, and 'real' fighting?

Believe me you'll know, it just takes some time to learn how to read the two dogs and how they intereact with each other.

And a biggie, because I've heard a lot of different opinions on this one: Are two dogs not much more work (than one dog is) or a LOT more work (than one dog is) ?

To be perfetly honest there have been time when I've found it to be a lot of work and other times when I've found it to be not so hard and other times I've found it to be crazy. Then again almost all of the dogs I have except for the latest addition were rescues and have had some sort of issues to work through which can at times be difficult when you have other dogs with issuses to work with as well. However I would never think of doing it differently and not having more then one dog.

As for the question about the dog in the cold weather, having two dogs myself who were not made for the cold I've learned to deal with it, and I'm pretty sure you could two. Just be prepared to invest in some good coats for all types of weather.

[mike001]

I've always had more than one dog and they all seemed to get along. The exception being that the male and female alpha will not give up their place. You should always put your first dog's bowl down first and call her/him and then the others as their pack order. My dogs always get along, but I make sure to follow the pack order. As for walking more than one dog, yes, it's a bit harder on leash. But being in the country, I'm fortunate that the bush and trails are only a few hundred feet away and they can all be turned loose. They get more exercise together than the solitary dog who tends to stick by you. As for coming from a hotter country, I wouldn't worry about it. We (the general public) import dogs from all over without any ill effects. The dogs will groww thicker coats and get used to it.

[borzoimom]

TO BE totally honest Michy- Hotties calm pressence helped femka tremendously! She was afraid of everything and his confidence helped her so greatly! You have seen Femkas pictures before we got her, the light in her eyes- then here. I contribute a good half of that to learning from Hottie confidence etc. Life didnt seem so confusing to her anymore. Considering she never trusted people, Hottie helped break the ice with her for me to work with her.

[luvofallhorses]

She's adorable and reminds me of Nala. :)

[SunsetRose]

Multiple dog households are wonderful IMO as long as you can handle it, which I'm sure you would be able to.

Trina used to be an only dog for a while and she started to get older. She was overweight, has hip displaysia. Well, when we got a Angie, who was about 5, 6 months old, it really livened her up. She lost alot of weight playing with her too. Now Trina will be 12 this July and she is still running around the pool like a young dog catching small food pieces you throw at her with astonishing accuracy and has yet to slow down and act her age.

When we got Rosie as a puppy, Angie really helped to teach her and socialize her. Like on the fourth of July, Rosie was afraid of the fireworks and the noise. But we went outside and went to a neighbors house and because Angie and Lacy (the neighbors labrador) weren't freaking out, Rosie calmed down. She isn't afraid of any loud noises now, thunder fireworks, gunshots....She even gets in the way of the vacuum and you can vacuum her with the hose attatchment.


First off, will Jenny get bad ideas if the other dog isn't as well trained as her? Say, it doesn't come when called, will Jenny stop coming when called?

Nope, that deffinitly won't be an issue. As long as Jenny has a reliable recall even with distractions, it won't happen. As mentioned above, it will actually work the other way. If you call Jenny and she comes, the new dog is likely to follow, thus helping you teach the new dog to come when called too!


What changes? Like what is the difference, walking one dog compared to walking two?

Once you get them situated, it's much like just walking one dog as long as they both heel good. Just make sure you teach the new dog to heel before you walk them together. They may get a bit excited the first time going out together, but they'll get used to it. The only difference is that people tend to look at you funny when you walk more than one dog. You should see the looks I get when I am walking two huge german shepherds and some little 18 pound mutt :p :D


Will it not be as attatched to me as Jenny is?

Once you develop the bond, it will be just at attatched to you as Jenny. It's important that each dog get it's own special time alone with you. This can be accomplished through a one on one walk or a nice, calm grooming session.


Now, whenever we watch a movie, Jenny will quietly lie on her bed. If we got another dog, would they both lie down, or would they be up playing with each other?

Most likely, the new dog will lay down too. You and Jenny are going to be setting the mood. Once the new dog gets situated into the house, it will learn when it's time to be hyper and crazy, and when it's time to settle down. When I first got Angie and it was bed time, she thought it was just too cool that I was laying on the bed and she thought it was time for her to jump all over me and lick me to death. But by the third night, she learned that bedtime was time to go to sleep. Same with Rosie. When I first got her and it was the first night in bed, she thought it was playtime. But she soon learned through me and Angie that bedtime is for sleeping. And just to clarify, both of those dogs sleep in the bed with me lol.


How do you keep the fastest eater from fighting for the others remaining food? Or would they not be able to both eat in the kitchen? (my mom isn't fond of the idea of them not eating in the kitchen, because it would ruin the carpet)

Just do different ends of the kitchen and make sure you police them while they eat. This way, if one gets done faster, you are there to make sure he/she doesn't try to steal somebody elses food. Mine eat in different rooms, but no closed doors. Rosie eats under the table in the family room, Trina eats in the kitchen in front of the refridgerator and Angie eats on the couch in the front room (yes, on the couch lol). The one who finishes first will eventually learn not to bother the other and you won't have to watch them like a hawk.


Would they fight over the 'best' seat in front of the fire?

Probably not. They will either share it, or one will have it and the other will find another spot to lay down. Because it was jenny's spot to begin with, it is most likely that it will remain Jenny's spot and the other dog will find somewhere else. Rosie and Angie both share sleeping spots sometimes, you will find both of them laying on the couch or recliner, I have some really cute pics of them on the couch together.


How do you tell the difference between play, fighting for dominence, and 'real' fighting?

The majority of the time, with real fighting or fighting for dominance, the hair on the back will stand up. With play fighting, there will be alot of play bowing, high pitched barks, and jumping on each other. Although dogs can be extremely noisy during play with snarls and growls, the snarl you hear during a real fight is different....It's hard to explain, but you will know it when you hear it.


And a biggie, because I've heard a lot of different opinions on this one: Are two dogs not much more work (than one dog is) or a LOT more work (than one dog is) ?

The only time two dogs is double trouble is when the dogs have behavioral issues and aren't trained. You already have one dog who knows the house rules and is well trained, so you probably won't have any issues with another dog asimilating into the family. Jealousy issues can sometimes cause problems, but that is fairly easily reversed. Rosie didn't like it when I payed attention to Angie so what I did was I made it a good thing for rosie when angie got attention instead of a bad thing (like being ignored). So when I was petting angie, Rosie also got praised, petted or was given a treat.

[Glacier]

Here's a couple of the downsides I don't think anyone has mentioned yet:

1. More dogs = more poop. I just spent 2 hours scooping poop. I probably spend 8 hours a week doing nothing but cleaning the yard! Granted two dogs won't produce nearly as much as 23, but it's still double what one dog does!

2. Bigger vet bills. Beyond basic vet care, can you afford two emergencies? What if they are both sick at the same time?

3. It's harder to get away. I could find a someone to take care of multiple human children much easier than I can find someone to take care of even a few of my dogs. It's been two years since Stuart and I were able to get away for even a night together. Most of my family has never met my hubby. When I go visit, he stays here. When he goes away, I stay home. I've only ever met his Dad!

4. More dogs = more noise. Are your neighbors dog lovers and willing to tolerate a little extra ruckus?

5. Your heart gets broken more often. I look around my yard somedays and think.."Oh my God. The next few years are going to suck!" My pack is rapidly aging, with at least five dogs in double digit years and 10 considered seniors by my vet! My babies, Mac & Ozzy, are almost four. I seriously considered adopting a 7 month old puppy this week, just to get a younger dog in the mix! (Then I came to my senses!!)

I didn't find two was much more work than one. The work level skyrocketed at double digits! Everything before that was pretty easy! It's pretty complicated now!

I am deeply attached to all of my dogs. I don't feel differently towards the ones who came later vs. the ones who came first. Don't feel differently about the two who have been here since puppyhood vs. those who arrived as adults. Do I have a favorite? Absolutely, but it's not set in stone. My favorite changes all the time, sometimes from hour to hour! Every one of them gets a turn to be the favorite!

The good stuff--unconditional love, never a dull moment, the joy of watching them play together, ect. All the good parts of dog ownership are still there with multiple dogs!

[Cinder & Smoke]

The good stuff --
unconditional love, never a dull moment, the joy of watching them play together, ect.
All the good parts of dog ownership are still there with multiple dogs!

:)
Oh, YES!!

;)

[Freedom]

Hi! I'm not sure how old your Jenny is, nor can I tell if she is smaller than the fawn dog, being part whippet.

The one time I had 2 dogs, my Princess was about 13 and had suffered a series of strokes, and I took in my grandpa's dog, Samantha, after he died. Sam was about 11, no health issues. Princess had been the one and only all her life, we got her when she was 5 months old. Princess sat out in the porch and sulked for 3 weeks, and refused to come in the house! It took some work to get her to come around. Eventually they got along. Sam was always more active, and they had to be walked separately. Princess was not well and moved slowly, Sam was all over checking out everything and dashing here and there. It was OK when we were home, took a little more thought if we went out to a field or the beach or on vacation. (They both lived to be 16.) They never fought over food or anything, but that may have been because Princess couldn't fight at that point. The vet said Princess recovered better and lived longer having the second dog around.

I would also mention that Boo boo is going to need time learning to be a pet, learning about family life. It's always great to already have a dog present, for the rescue to copy and imitate. She looks lovely, I hope you decide to adopt her. I bet you will find more "work" in helping her adapt, than you will in getting them to get along. I just can't tell if Boo boo can walk at Jenny's pace or if it will be too slow for her. But you can work around that!

[pessimisaurus]

First off, will Jenny get bad ideas if the other dog isn't as well trained as her? Say, it doesn't come when called, will Jenny stop coming when called?

Well, dogs dont actually learn by observation, so no, if one dog doesnt know come, your other dog wont learn not to come anymore. However, there are some things though that dogs do that are social or have to do with survival (such as eating, drinking water, potty, etc) that they often "copy" each other on. Have you ever seen one dog go to the water bowl then a bunch of others join in? Or one dog digging a hole and the others join in? But they cant learn any obedience type stuff from each other.

What changes? Like what is the difference, walking one dog compared to walking two?

Depending on your dog(s) it can be near impossible to walk 2+ at a time. Especially if one or both are active, or if one or both dont have perfect leash manners. I RARELY walk my 2 together, and its only when they both have their gentle leaders on. My 2 are very reactive, especially when they see another dog, and they feed off of each other- so instead of getting a little aroused, they get double as barky/worked up when together and a dog walks by.

Will it not be as attatched to me as Jenny is?

This all depends on the dog. Some dogs tend to attach to one person, some love everybody. And much of it also depends on how important/relevant you are to the dog. For example, who walks the dog, trains it, plays with it, feed it, etc. It has little to do with how loved you already are by another dog, etc. Sometimes dogs may be more attached to each other than to people too, but again it mostly depends on the individual dog.

Now, whenever we watch a movie, Jenny will quietly lie on her bed. If we got another dog, would they both lie down, or would they be up playing with each other?

Again, depends on the dog- their temperament, their age, breed, etc, and it also GREATLY depends on their mood. If they are both adult dogs and have had enough exercise that day, yeah I imagine they would both lie quietly. Dogs, like people, are all different and have different moods. My dogs are 3 & 4 yrs old, so they mostly just hang out and mellow around the house, but there are certain times of the day that they get excited and start racing around, wrestling with each other.

How do you keep the fastest eater from fighting for the others remaining food? Or would they not be able to both eat in the kitchen? (my mom isn't fond of the idea of them not eating in the kitchen, because it would ruin the carpet)

Many dogs learn to work out their relationships so they dont fight over resources. (Took my dogs only a week before they stopped arguing over everything, though of course there are some items that are higher value and they do occasionally scuffle, but for the most part theyve learned each other's boundaries). Ive also heard many people have taught their dogs to eat together and only out of their own bowls. But in general you cant really expect any dog not to eat unattended food. Id say the solution would be to feed them far enough apart that they arent tempted to eat each others food, and once they finish pick up any left overs until the next meal time. If your current dog is free fed, Id recommend switching to timed meals.

Would they fight over the 'best' seat in front of the fire?

Maybe always, maybe sometimes, maybe never. Like I said, most dogs figure their boundaries and relationship out in a short time. Some dogs dont guard locations, some do. Some dogs dont guard toys, some do. Some dogs dont guard food, most do. lol A lot depends on the dog. Most dogs I know usually share spots and beds and greatly enjoy each other's company.

How do you tell the difference between play, fighting for dominence, and 'real' fighting?

Its challenging. You really have to see a lot of it, and ideally have help from a professional or book to spot everything. A dog that has been properly socialized around other dogs between the age of 8 wks-18 wks will have learned to ritualize the pressure of its bite so that it will never do any damage when it bites. So even if it gets into a real fight, it wont do any damage. That said also, dogs rarely get into real fights that actually need to be broken up (I have never seen one in my 4+ yrs working with dogs professionally). They do however OFTEN scuffle. This is usually very loud, over the top, lots of teeth showing, pawing, etc. Again this is all very ritualized in a properly socialized dog and rarely leads to any damage. Dogs are social predators meaning they walk around with deadly weapons in their heads (teeth/jaws) yet they have to have a way to communicate with each other safely. So evolutionarily dogs have developed very complex ways of communicating and arguing without hurting each other. If they didnt, the species wouldnt have survived!

And a biggie, because I've heard a lot of different opinions on this one: Are two dogs not much more work (than one dog is) or a LOT more work (than one dog is) ?

Depends on the dog & your lifestyle. Its definitely a lot different than just having one. There are a lot of pros and cons. I found it very helpful to have a 2nd dog to play with and entertain my 1st dog. They often wear each other out. But at the same time, they have very different needs and behavioral challenges that make for twice the work in a lot of areas. In general I think a 2nd dog isnt too much different than 1, as long as they are a good match. 3 dogs though is very very different.

[GreyhoundGirl]

Thank you sooooo much everyone. :) I'm working on it because my heart longs so much for booboo. My mom isn't too fond of the idea, but I wanted to start a thread, because I know, even if it isn't booboo, and even if it isn't for another year or even more, I will be eventually adding another dog to the family. I appreciate all your words and answering all my questions, and I will certainly read and re-read them. Thanks so much everyone. :D I'll be showing this thread to my mom, hopefully all your words will help. :)

[ontariogreys]

BooBoo will likely get adopted extremely quickly being young female outgoing and light fawn, more than likely to someone who already has an existing applicantion in already. Don't mean to disappoint it is just the way it is.

As for weather

My Maya is a from Central Florida arrived 3 years ago during a bitter cold snap she has become very much a snow dog and loves playing outside naked, she hates wearing a coat

this was taken the day of her arrival http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y53/mleg2001/118291499rjCRtz_fs.jpg

She had to adjust to the weather ( the black grey) All greyhound groups provide a muzzle, it is a great tool for introducing dogs to one another, as during the first month of getting to know each other there can be squabbles, and some get nippy when they play which can lead to horrible skin tears in these thin skinned dogs. THe greys muzzled in the following picture are my own greys, http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y53/mleg2001/fd08c1a4-1.jpg the red unmuzzled on was my dominant foster boy I took off the muzzle just for the picture, but even after 6 weeks together their was some bullying and all the dogs are muzzled to ensure no one gets hurt, even through one was a bully the others needed to be muzzled as well in the event they wanted to retaliate, I fostered him for 6 weeks and things were starting to settle down. Females can be a little more snipier with one anotherand when I put multiple females in my home I like to have different dominance levels so there is less conflict and competition between them so their is less risk of fighting and getting their noses out of joint, something you should keep in mind when putting 2 females together, with greyhounds there is a risk of sleep aggression early on, greyhounds have become used to having their privacy and eating seperately, so I like to feed seperately initially preferably with the new grey in a crate, and early on they often do not like having dogs bothering them when they are laying down sleeping they have been raise is seperate condo's(crates) so may startle initially or get upset when a new dogs enters their territory while on a bed. So for the first month or so you need to supervise interactions closely until they get to know each other

She now has to be dragged inside most of the time as she like being outside playing

I do not put on coats for short potty breaks unless it is bitterly cold, their feet tend to freeze before their bodies do, I have found that around 7 to 8 years old they start to become less tolerant of the cold when younger they tend to want to stay outside longer, if walking salt burns their feet fairly quickly so walks booties tend to be more important than a coat

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y53/mleg2001/P1010001b-1.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y53/mleg2001/P1010003.jpg


If you have a yard with a nice lawn to run on it won't stay that way long, they tend to create their own race track and the running with rip out the grass

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y53/mleg2001/P1010005-1-1.jpg

[Twisterdog]

I personally can't imagine owning just one dog.

Because I have a busy schedule, I do not feel I have enough time to devote to a single dog. I think that the single dog's people become their pack and playmates to a greater degree that they do for multiple dogs. This can be either a good thing or a bad thing.

My friend Bob, for example, has one dog. That's the way he wants it, because it's just the two of them and he wants Jack to act more like a human and less like a dog. He has the time to devote to his dog.

I, however, don't feel that I have that time, and I want my dogs to have canine siblings to play with when I'm not available. I want my dogs to be less needy, and more self-sufficient.

I've never really had dogs learn bad habits from new dogs, usually the new dogs learn the good habits from the old dogs, for the most part. The notable exception ... males and marking. I've had my dogs pick up marking from foster dogs. :mad:

[borzoimom]

I remember when Buddy died. Without his pressence, and the papillion at the time still living at the other home, I felt like the house was deafly quiet. I slipped into depression. Finally I just couldn't take the silence anymore, and got Hottie. Even the work I had to do with his surgery and all, the fact is he needed me so much, his activities pulled me out of the depression. Two months later, I finally got piddles ( the papillion) back, and everything really picked up.
In reflection although any death hurts deeply, having another pet in the home helps you adjust. Nothing can replace what happens, but the unconditional love from the others helped me get through the grief as well.

[pitc9]

I personally, will never have just one dog!
2 is much better!
They always have a playmate!!
But it does mean more money and more time spent taking care of them!

[GreyhoundGirl]

BooBoo will likely get adopted extremely quickly being young female outgoing and light fawn, more than likely to someone who already has an existing applicantion in already. Don't mean to disappoint it is just the way it is.


http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y53/mleg2001/118291499rjCRtz_fs.jpg




Hmmm, true, I never thought of that. :(

Hey, you mid if I ask you where in Ontario you are? It'd be really nice to meet up sometime. :D Your dogs are gorgeous!

[borzoimom]

Hmmm, true, I never thought of that. :(

Hey, you mid if I ask you where in Ontario you are? It'd be really nice to meet up sometime. :D Your dogs are gorgeous!
Orrr-- you put in your application and its a better fit that is in already. Keep in mind- sighthounds do better with other sighthounds. Sighthounds, although indivuals, think alike. Other applications could have a more domineering breed. A race track dogs needs to speak the same language. And if fostered out- the foster mom has a say in the deal. She may say Booboo should be with another sighthound- which the other application does not have.

[dab_20]

First off, will Jenny get bad ideas if the other dog isn't as well trained as her? Say, it doesn't come when called, will Jenny stop coming when called?
For the most part, the new dog will learn from Jenny. Although, when I got Sam and he would chew on things he's not supposed to or pee in the house, Molli started some of those bad habits she never did before.

What changes? Like what is the difference, walking one dog compared to walking two?
I think it's just as easy to walk two dogs, as long as they are both trained to walk politely on the leash. I taught Sammy to walk on a leash by himself before I started walking him and Molli together.

Will it not be as attatched to me as Jenny is?
Depends. If you spend a lot of time with the dog, then he/she may be just as attached to you. It also depends on the dog. Like mentioned before, some dogs get attached to just one person, some love everyone.

Now, whenever we watch a movie, Jenny will quietly lie on her bed. If we got another dog, would they both lie down, or would they be up playing with each other?
This also depends. If they got enough exercise for the day, they will probably sit quietly, or you can easily get them to settle down. If they've been cooped up all day in the house, they're more likely to play with each other. Also depends on their mood and temperment. Molli and Sam love playing with each other all the time in the house, but I can usually get them to calm down when I need them to be. Sometimes one or the other are in a grumpy mood so they won't play.

How do you keep the fastest eater from fighting for the others remaining food? Or would they not be able to both eat in the kitchen? (my mom isn't fond of the idea of them not eating in the kitchen, because it would ruin the carpet)
I would strongly recommend you keep them in seperate rooms or their kennels when they are eating. Many dogs are food aggressive and that could cause a fight. Molli is very food aggressive, so I can never leave them together in a room with food or treats.

Would they fight over the 'best' seat in front of the fire?
Most likely not. If they're close they may cuddle together. If they want their space, one dog would find a different spot.

How do you tell the difference between play, fighting for dominence, and 'real' fighting?
I dido what Kay said.

And a biggie, because I've heard a lot of different opinions on this one: Are two dogs not much more work (than one dog is) or a LOT more work (than one dog is) ?
I find that there is a lot more work in some areas like grooming, training, etc. I find that I really don't have to exercise my dogs nearly as much, because they wear each other out from play fighting and chasing each other. It's also nice because my mom works 12 hour shifts and I go to school, so they keep each other company while we're gone. If your dogs are a good match, it shoulden't be too much more work than having one.
My dogs are quite a bit of work because of Molli's severe food aggression, and they still have not figured out who is dominent over the other so they fight quite a bit.

[ontariogreys]

Hey, you mid if I ask you where in Ontario you are? It'd be really nice to meet up sometime. Your dogs are gorgeous!

I am in Woodstock about 20 minutes east of London along 401, I noticed in another post you mentioned your also in Ontario near Quebec.

This is posted on the site where Boo-Boo is at

Please note that GRR only works with potential adopters in the following areas : NY State: Duchess County, Putnam County, Westchester County. Connecticut: Fairfield County. This enables our current and potential adopters to have the necessary GRR resources within a reasonable distance of their homes. If you live elsewhere and are interested in adopting a Grey, send us an email and we will be happy to refer you to the Greyhound Adoption group which is active in your area!

Most greyhound adoption groups require that a home visit is done prior to placement which makes it very difficult to adopt greys from US adoptions groups, Maya I was able to get from Florida 1) because I have other adoptive greyhounds, 2) I was a foster parent and volunteered with an adoption group, 3) I had a supporting adopting here to be my sponsor that did the homevisit and would accept responsiblity for the grey if for some reason the adoption did not work out, for example if her and the other dogs did not get along, and lastly 4) Maya was a special needs adoption and I had previous experience with a spook greyhound

This is to ensure there is a safety net for all greys adopted, so they don't end up dumped in pounds and it does happen sadly.


There are a couple of groups in the US that will adopt to Canadian residents but only if they adoption rep somewhat near the area of the adopter a couple groups Michigan and one in Vermont

If you wanted to get a greyhound your best source would be
GRACanada http://gracanada.com/ it is near me but they operate out of a kennel rather than fosterhomes, but when you have other dogs you must bring them along to meet to be sure the dog you pick will get along, the only group around that lets you pick your own greyhound though certain ones are recommended according to your application, no home visit required, this one is near London

A group in Ottawa the flies dogs in from Florida a couple times a year, they collect info on your lifestyle then contact the track to have them pick out dogs that match a certain profile that would fit in your family. http://www.adopt-a-greyhound.com/

There is a group in Quebec but they send you info to a track in the US where a greyhound in picked out for you http://www.greyhoundrescuequebec.com/


You may be close enough to one group in Vermont to be considered
http://www.vtgreys.org/


Your other option would be a non racing greyhound rescue.

In ohio some are bred for hunting some will be crosses with other hounds and when they no longer need they dump at pounds and humane societies, you can check thru petfinder some are listed as greyhound crosses but some may have no greyhound in them, Ocassionly a racing hound ends up in them

Here is a female in one pound that looks all grey and obviously not to happy and very terrified :(
http://search.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=7960511

[ramanth]

Since many have answered your questions, I'll just offer my two cents.

For a couple of years I had been wanting to get Kia a companion but never really researched or thought deeply about the ramifications of having two dogs.

I don't regret adopting Chipper and he's really settled in and has melded into the pack so to speak.

I do walk them together but because they are about the same size, they are not too difficult to handle. Chipper likes to go, go, go! While Kia wants to stop and sniff. Since I want to go, go, go... it has now become two against one, so Kia begrudingly caves. I enjoy walking two dogs more than I ever enjoyed walking Kia alone. Because Kia never wanted to walk. She just wanted to stop every 5 feet to sniff and pee.

Chipper came with a nasty habit of jumping and suddenly, Kia, who never jumped up before, began too. :rolleyes:

So in a way, Chipper did teach Kia a bad habit which we are working quickly to nip in the bud. However, teaching him good habits has been pretty easy since Kia is there to demonstrate. He picked up shake in less than an hour. :)

It's sort of a give and take relationship. Chipper was enrolled in obedience and we pretty much have been giving Kia a refresher course. It's been a good experience so far. Though it's funny when I practice a sit, stay with them. Chipper will obey, while Kia will come slinking over after a couple of minutes with this "Are we done yet?" look. :p

She must think since she's older, she can get away with it.

Kia still has mild food agression but Chipper doesn't try to take away treats from her. Just patiently waits to see if there will be left overs. And she has been letting him lick her empty food bowl, something she's never allowed my sister's dogs to get away with.

They play great together, but he does get on her nerves sometimes, and that's when we intervien with a 'time out'.

Definitely has it's pros and cons, but I can't imagine being a one dog household ever again.

[kittyfly]

I'm really only at the "interested" stage now... ;) But I was really looking for some info on some pros and cons of adding a second dog. Jenny has only ever been in a one-dog household. I've never been responsible for more than one dog (at a time.)


First off, will Jenny get bad ideas if the other dog isn't as well trained as her? Say, it doesn't come when called, will Jenny stop coming when called?

What changes? Like what is the difference, walking one dog compared to walking two?

Will it not be as attatched to me as Jenny is?

Now, whenever we watch a movie, Jenny will quietly lie on her bed. If we got another dog, would they both lie down, or would they be up playing with each other?

How do you keep the fastest eater from fighting for the others remaining food? Or would they not be able to both eat in the kitchen? (my mom isn't fond of the idea of them not eating in the kitchen, because it would ruin the carpet)

Would they fight over the 'best' seat in front of the fire?

How do you tell the difference between play, fighting for dominence, and 'real' fighting?

And a biggie, because I've heard a lot of different opinions on this one: Are two dogs not much more work (than one dog is) or a LOT more work (than one dog is) ?

Sorry for all the questions, but if I do add another I want to know what I'm in for. :)

there will be some playing when not wanted and there maybe some problems with feeding but and yes the will fight over the best spot at the fire place but they will come to a good half and half there .

[buttercup132]

Old thread , this member doesn't even come on here anymore.