I ( WE) have 7 Yorkies and a nuetered Poodle. My husband of 47 yrs and I are retired, have a large house on a large farm in the country. We have a fenced acre off one of the rear decks and there is a doggy door out of one living room onto that deck. All my dogs are totally housebroken ( even the pupsters ) and have access to all the house . 3 sleep on our bed while others have their favorite places. Right now its quiet as they are all curled up in snuggle balls here in my office or the den where I can see them. None are barkers as we don't allow it from puppyhood on.
We are always here or else my grown grandaughter comes and stays at the house so they are NEVER alone. Its somewhat restricting but this is our choice.
We strive to only have 3 or so litters ( if any ) a year as we that breed know, its lots of work !!!!! This year we expect to have 3.
We learned early to do the Yorkie shuffle in our house and advise all guests to do the same as they surely get under your feet.
What I am saying is this--- Think about it long and hard BEFORE you make the committment to increase your family, ( just as you should before a human baby ) as these are not disposable throw away furkids . While some of us can and do thrive with several it may not be for everyone.
I have been places where several dogs lived and it was horrible.
We both brush and comb our dogs EVERY day except Sunday and give baths and trims as necessary. Its nice as we have worked together all our lives and its a very rewarding thing to do together now. However if your hubby isn't supportive ( and helpful ) you better rethink this.
Don't know if this is any help but - This is either something you have a passion and overwhelming love for or you shouldn't have more than just one or two as pets. I could write so much more but this is long enough. LOL
