Regarding a playmate: keep in mind that if you get a pup, you are more than doubling your work. With either a pup or an older dog, it may take up to a year before you could safely leave them to their own devices together. Teddy was 8 months old when I brought him home. It was months before I could leave them alone together because they would get each other going so fast that I was afraid they would be swinging from the chandeliers and hurt themselves. Now they sleep or look out the window together.
Another point to consider is that twosomes don't necessarily self entertain. Max and Teddy have been together for a year and are just starting to play on their own. However, they still prefer human involvement.
Daycare is very expensive, but it may be cheaper than a second dog.
One more note on barking on walks: I'm pretty sure that Max's barking has recently increased because weather has interfered with our walking schedule. He isn't getting enough exercise.
__________________ Kristin, Max and Teddy  |