I always knew I wanted a second dog...but others in my house took some convincing. I think most dogs like to have other "fur" siblings. Dogs really are pack animals and I think other four legged pack members are important, whether they be other dogs, or perhaps cats. Having said that, I didn't get my second dog until my first was about 5, and then when I adopted Charlee (she was already 18 mths), George was Ok with it...but I can honestly say although the dogs live happily with each other they are by no means best friends. If I were able to do it over, I would have gotten my second dog when George was 1 or 2 years old. Old enough to be basically trained but not so set in her ways. Mind you, part of that is George's personality, she accepts other dogs, but would prefer to have all my attention to herself. In your situation, I would wait until Pippa is basically trained, and socialize her with other puppies as much as possible. If she seems to enjoy the company of other dogs, I would get another puppy before you go back to work full-time, giving yourself the time to get the second puppy settled and trained before you need to be away longer days. Might also be nice since you have multiple children, to have multiple dogs....kind of share up the love. That has definitely been an advantage in my house. George will always be MY girl, but Charlee has really bonded well with my father...sharing the love as it were. |