Would a second dog help?

Question

I have had a whippet for several years (he's 7 now, and I've owned him since he was a puppy). He's very attached to me and has always wanted to spend every possible moment in contact with me. Although we originally resisted, it did not take long for him to worm his way onto the furniture (but not the bed).

Well, last November, we had a baby, and so the dog is not getting the attention he used to get, and I can't always let him sit with me. If I'm feeding or holding the baby, he's not allowed up, etc. We've also been taking fewer and shorter walks. He gets very upset when we leave the house with the baby but don't take him along. And when I'm sitting on the floor playing with the baby, he comes and tries to sit on my lap, which he hasn't done since he was a puppy. When he's feeling particularly restless and neglected, he will try to play with the baby's toys, but will leave them when I tell him to (and he doesn't go after them when he's alone). He's clearly jealous, bored, and lonely. I do what I can to give him love and attention, but there's only so much I can do.

I'm wondering if getting a second dog would help--if he had a friend to play with and curl up with, would he feel less lonely and generally happier? (He likes playing with other dogs.) A companion for him, to replace the companionship with me that he has lost.

Of course I would be extremely careful when choosing the new dog. I'd look for an older (i.e., not a puppy) dog with similar play style and activity level, already housebroken, etc., and one that is good with children. We'd make sure everyone gets along before bringing any new dog home.

But I don't know if it would help or just make things worse.

Any thoughts?

landi_lou · Accepted Answer

I don't think you are being neglectful at all. Some other people who tend to answer questions here have very little perspective. I however don't think you should get another dog as this will only be one more change he has to deal with. Just give him some time to get used to having the new baby around and I'm sure he will settle in just fine.

Mr. Taco · Answer

So you can have TWO dogs that you neglect instead of just one? 

Frankly, you just need to MAKE time for your dog, or find him a better home. You say, "We've also been taking fewer and shorter walks." That is part of the problem. Dogs need exercise and attention. If you cannot give them that, find someone who can. Adding a dog is only going to double the problem, not resolve it. 

Good luck!

Anonymous · Answer

an incredible canines for this standards could be a rescue ex-racing greyhound! they only choose for a fifteen minute walk two times an afternoon, inspite of difficulty-loose concept that they are crammed with capability, my greyhound sleeps like 20 hours an afternoon haha. they are great with toddlers, plus on the grounds that they are age 2 or 3 once you undertake them, you may pick a canines with the character you require. they do no longer shed and haven't any undercoat so are great for those with allergies or allergies. My greyhound is the suitable puppy and the main affectionate canines i've got ever met, i actually motivate you to contemplate giving an ex-racer a 2d threat at existence :)

Jennifer M~ Got the Giggles · Answer

No.  Two dogs= twice the responsibility.  They wont entertain each other.

Not to mention a new dog will need extra time to adjust AND you have no idea how it will react to your baby.  

Try to make as much time as you can for him.  Try doggy playdates or an offleash park if he does well with other dogs

audioworld · Answer

not really...he just need more attention from you

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Would a second dog help?

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