I have a chocolate lab who has to spend at least 8 hrs daily 3 days a week at home alone because I work. I adore my dog and was wondering if I should get him a playmate. Do dogs like to play with other doggies?
2006-09-05 10:55:02 · 21 answers · asked by happydawg 6 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Most dogs love having a playmate! Labs are most often friendly, outgoing dogs who are pretty laid back with other dogs, so I'd say that your dog would probably be happy about it. If you get one, just make sure your lab gets a lot of attention so he knows he's still # 1.
2006-09-05 13:18:45 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
I think getting him a companion is good. But make sure that they both get along. Probably a puppy will not be a good thing because they are too play-full and your dog is older now. Try with an older dog see if that works, who ever you get the dog from, let them know is a trial period. Because your dog, believe or not may be content the way he is and he might get annoyed at another dog taking his territory. Another option is taking him to a dog place where the keep him during the time you work for you. You can do this 2 or 3 times a week, depending what you can afford. There are some places that you can even watch your dog from your computer at work. I hope some of these suggestions will help you.
2006-09-05 11:04:41 · answer #2 · answered by Boricua Born 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Its a very good idea but also at the same time if you have a male dog there might be some territorial issues and some resentment by getting another dog and that would cause you to have to be home more. If you got like say a Boston Terrier it would probably diffuse that situation a little bit, but other than that it is a great idea, I have worked in many pound and animal rescues and I have had nothing but good results with placing dogs, so if you think you can handle the responsibility then go for it.
2006-09-05 10:59:43 · answer #3 · answered by bibby6914 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Dogs are pack animals. Of course it helps to have another buddy around. It's in their nature. They tend to live longer, healtheir and happeir lives when they are teamed up with another. It doesn't matter much what breed you choose. Most dogs will get along better with a "newcomer" when the "newcomer" is a puppy. The "first" dog should be able to stay the "leader of the pack" and getting a puppy is an excellent way of doing this. It keep them from feeling put out or not wanted anymore. Just make sure that if you do get another dog, that your first guy never feels neglected. Sometimes it's hard to show just as much attention as you used to before the new guy came along. Your dog will surely pick up on this. It's a great idea!!! Go with it!! Check your local shelters first...It's a great place to get a pet!!!
2006-09-05 11:06:30 · answer #4 · answered by jw349 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A chocolate lab might like to have a playmate, sure. I have 4 dogs at home, and one of mine would be THRILLED to be home alone and not have those other dogs bugging him.
I will tell you that having multiple dogs does NOT mean that they play together when you are gone. They may both just sit and wait until you are home and THEN want you to play with both of them. Sometimes, having more than one means they get into MORE trouble at home! I have seen evidence of destruction that I KNOW the dogs collaborated on it!
Getting a second dog in NO way negates YOU from the obligation to walk them, play with them, etc. It just means they have a nap buddy when you are gone. but before you EVER leave two dogs alone together you need to ensure they get along well with or without you. And you shoudl ALWAYS introduce your first dog to a possible second before you bring them home to make sure they get along.
2006-09-05 11:05:00 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yep, I have a female Yellow lab that hated to be home alone when we went to work, she had severe seperation anxiety issues. Well, I got her a little Shih-tzu buddy to keep her company and now she is much happier while we are gone (we've since added another little tzu playmate so now she has 2 to keep her company while we are away).
A friend of mine also has a dog that hates to be left alone, but instead of adding another dog to their family they made arrangements with their neighbour (who's dog is also alone during the day) and now the dogs take turns staying with each other while their owners are at work, and they trade off which yard they stay in as well. So that's also another option to think about.
2006-09-05 11:52:27 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Labs in particular have a very difficult time being alone for any length of time. Rather than another dog, I would look into taking him to doggy daycare, or having a pet sitter come over and take him for a long walk on those days. Don't you just love your lab though! We do!!!! We have friends who own a pet store, and we drop our black lab there whenever we have to be gone for longer than an hour or two. They love having him there, and he loves being around people. Good luck!
2006-09-05 11:03:29 · answer #7 · answered by Mrs. Strain 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Dogs love to have a playmate. It keeps them from getting lonely and bored when the owner is not at home. Get him a buddy.
2006-09-05 10:58:01 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes, it will help with the boredom and exercise. But are you ready to take on the responsibilty of having 2 dogs? Also, on the territorial issue, the situation is almost always better if it is a male and female combination. Just make sure they are both spayed and neutered.
2006-09-05 11:02:15 · answer #9 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
well it depends on how many times a day it has met another dog. Only get another dog if you know your dog is ready and you are ready for the responsibility of the new one and your other one. make sure they get the same amount of love or they will start to feel neglected. Sometimes that happens. but i bet your a nice owner!!! most people are. thats how i know!!!
2006-09-05 11:06:45 · answer #10 · answered by j.l.l 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋