5 Disadvantages of Owning Two or More Dogs

While many dogs in the UK live as the only dog in their household, a sizeable number of people choose to keep two or more dogs together, known as a multi-dog household. This arrangement can have numerous benefits such as improved socialisation, enabling natural pack behaviours, and providing constant companionship.

However, owning multiple dogs is not for everyone and involves challenges related to lifestyle, individual dog temperaments, and additional responsibilities for the owner. In this article, we explore five main disadvantages of having two or more dogs.

1. Not All Dogs Get Along Well Together

Though dogs are naturally pack animals and often form social hierarchies, this doesn’t guarantee that any combination of dogs will live harmoniously. Some dogs may not get on well, leading to tension and stress. In the wild, dogs that don’t get along may separate from the group, but in a domestic setting, you cannot simply separate one of the dogs permanently.

It's vital to carefully assess the personalities and compatibility of each dog to ensure peaceful cohabitation. Overseeing initial introductions and being vigilant for signs of aggression or distress helps create a better multi-dog environment.

2. Challenges When Dogs Are Separated

Multi-dog households often help reduce separation anxiety for dogs, as having a companion can keep them calmer when the owner is absent. However, if dogs are accustomed to constant companionship, being separated—even temporarily—can increase anxiety rather than reduce it.

This means owners must prepare dogs gradually to handle times spent apart, whether for vet visits or temporary boarding, to avoid stress and behavioural issues.

3. Individual Attention Requires Separation at Times

Although dogs may spend much of their time together, there are occasions requiring individual attention. Training sessions are more effective one-on-one, and usually vet appointments happen with each dog separately. Moreover, when one dog inevitably passes away before the other, the remaining dog will have to adjust to single life, which can be emotionally challenging.

4. Dogs Can Pick Up Bad Habits from Each Other

Dogs learn a great deal by observing others, which often helps build good social skills and confidence. On the flip side, negative behaviours like destructiveness or digging can also spread between dogs. For example, if one dog starts digging the garden or chewing furniture, the other might imitate until the behaviour doubles the owner's challenges.

Owners must provide consistent training and management to prevent the spread of unwanted habits in a multi-dog home.

5. Increased Financial Costs

Owning multiple dogs significantly increases the financial commitment. Although buying in bulk can reduce some costs like food, dogs require individual items such as insurance, veterinary care, worming, flea treatments, and other supplies. All costs tend to rise substantially, making multiple dog ownership an expensive luxury that not all can afford.

Potential multi-dog owners should budget thoroughly to ensure they can meet the ongoing needs of each dog.

Overall, while having two or more dogs can be rewarding, it requires careful consideration, responsible ownership, and extra resources to provide the best life for all pets involved.