do dogs need companionship from another dog so they are not lonely when their owners are away?

Answer 1

Animals are no different from humans really. except animals are born in litters. Some dogs can do very well being the only child but owners need to provide ways to keep occupied while gone. Plenty of one on one and exercise when home.

A lot of it depends on background of the dog. Puppies that are with the litter longer, 3-4 months tend to be used to not being alone. Dogs that came from a multiple dog situation can be lost without playmates. Many of the behaviour problems people see and complain about are because of this seperation from other dogs. Yes, they are bored and lonely. Then they find ways to occupy themselves that are not pleasing to owners.

Being in rescue I've never had a 1 dog situation, not in over 14 years. I do know that we have many that we prefer to adopt to a multipet family as they have been around other dogs for so long. We also get dogs that obviously do not want another dog around, not actually aggressive, just want to be the center of attention or else. We take this into consideration when approving adoptions.

Dogs are pack animals by nature. Trips to dog park or playdates with a friend's dog can be very helpful to keep a lonely dog happier.

Answer 2

Dogs are pack animals and need to be in a pack. That is why a lot of stray dogs will run to gether. We don't think of dogs being pack animals because humans only have one to two dogs at a time. However, to a dog their humans become a pack animal. therefore, yes dogs do keep each other company when the owners are away. they even love each other. For example, I have two dogs one of my dogs got injuried and had to spend a couple of nights in the hospital, it's mate wouldn't eat while he was a way. When he came home he had to sleep in a crate and he's mate would sleep beside the cage with a paw touching his paw.
with that said, do not get another dog to keep a dog company. Any dog requires, walking , feeding and vet visits. If you are concerned that your dog is lonely or is getting into stuff while you are away you can have a pet sitter come to your house or take it to a pet daycare. While they seem expensive they are much less expensive in the long run.

Answer 3

Not always, dogs are social creatures and need social interaction but they vary in how much. It also depends on how long they are alone. Some dogs can become very stressed out if they are left alone alot and benefit a great deal from having a companion, and it doesn't have to be another dog, many dogs and cats are great friends. Rescue groups are a great source to find a new companion and often encourage introducing them before taking them home and trial periods to see if they get along.

Answer 4

I think all dogs would be happier with a buddy (they are pack animals you know). You have to be careful though, some dogs just don't get along. I have a friend with a shepherd that my dog knows very well. We try not to have our dogs at the same place at the same time though because for whatever reason, my Bailey just hates her dog.

I had a mutt for 15 years.... he was an only dog, and I'd like to think he was happy.

If you have a dog with separation anxiety, getting another dog is definately the way to go (if you have the means and room to support two dogs). It worked for us anyways. My 2 dogs love each other and they beat the crap out of each other too (playfully of course).

Answer 5

Dogs are PACK ANIMALS... they dont necessarily need another dog - but they need another "companion" that can be a cat, or a dog...
otherwise the radio will fill the silence but ultimately it depends on the breed - different breeds have different intelligence levels..
Border Collies will be more destructive if their mental needs are not met... where as lower intelligence dogs like Shih Tzus are quite fine if left for longer periods of time... but really NO dog should be left for long becuase as I said initially - they are pack animals

Answer 6

It really depends on your current dog's personality. If it doesn't like other dogs, then I'd say getting another dog would be a bad idea.

Time, space, and finance should also be taken into consideration when deciding on whether to add a 2nd dog or not. Double the dog means double the playing time, walking time, and money spent on food and medicine.

I got my second dog for the exact reason, but I know I will be sticking to just one dog in the future, after my current dogs "go to college".

Answer 7

Yes. dogs get terribly distressed if left home alone for longish periods, regularly. The best solution is to get another dog (ascertain both the dogs go along with each other). Or if your dog is friendly - you might want to consider a kitten. They will become friends over a period of time

Answer 8

i would be nice. Companionship is nice for anyone, cats or dogs. I always make sure I have 2 cats or 2 dogs. It also gives them someone to play with while you are not home. (i would suggest putting away anything breakable)

Answer 9

I think it is best-they keep each not only from being lonely but bored. Dogs are pack animals.

My dogs are chihuahuas and they are REALLY pack animals, chihuahuas tend to like to run in herds.

The optimal situation is two dogs who are equal in size AND energy....An Australian Shepherd could make a couch potato pug crazy.....

Answer 10

It does help for them to be around other dogs when people are away to avoid stress and anxiety. Although if you leave two or more dogs home alone with no toys they can get destructive. I would suggest some chew toys or those rubber balls which you fill with treats and they have to roll around to get them out. Hope this info helps.