Dog behaviourist cautions owners about getting another pooch

Leaving your dog at home may lead to a heavy heart, especially if you're concerned they're going to be bored or lonely.

It can be even worse if your pet pooch suffers from separation anxiety because of the deep bond you have formed.

Some dogs may whimper, cry and bark incessantly when you close the door on them, which could be indicative of separation anxiety issues.

Award-winning dog trainer and dog behaviourist Rachel Rodgers at Napo Pet Insurance said it's a “common misconception” that getting another dog in the home will solve separation anxiety.

Rachel explained: “I regularly see people on social media advising dog owners dealing with separation-related behaviour problems to ‘get a second dog'.

“Sadly, in reality, there is no quick fix for separation issues.”

She explained: “Some dogs' separation issues stem from hyper-attachment to one primary caregiver, typically the owner.

“In such cases, introducing an additional dog would not alleviate the problem.

“Regardless of the presence of a second dog, the human whose absence causes the distress would still be missing.”

Adding a second dog into the home will lead to additional costs in food, veterinary care, and insurance.

And some owners need to consider that their dog may not even want to share their home with another dog.

“This could lead to conflicts between the dogs,” Rachel cautioned, adding that it could require “professional” help to sort out.

Any dog experiencing separation anxiety is better seen by the vet who can refer the dog to a Clinical Animal Behaviourist.

Napo Pet Insurance is the comprehensive pet insurance brand designed to support happier, healthier dogs. Built and run by pet parents, Napo offers super comprehensive lifetime cover from “tooth to tail”. Napo is dedicated to helping pet parents give their dogs the best and healthiest life possible.