should we get another dog?

[fairywing]

When we got our springer - now 3 - i worked at home alot of the time. I now have a new job and am working sometimes quite long hours. Dog seems quite happy with this and only sleeps all day anyway! Even when we are home! She gets a good run in our field morning and evening and lots of love and attention when we are here but im not sure whether that is enough. Shoudl we get her a companion or would it be cruel to get another if we are not home much?? Couldnt ever part with her so that is not an option.

how about employing a dog walker instead?

Having 2 dogs is far easier than 1. They entertain each other when we are out, so when you get home they have that 'wow my owners are home' welcome, but not the 'I've been at home alone give me attention' welcome iyswim.

It means when they go out for walks they have a buddy to play with.

I know others would disagree and say you should never leave them, but I know what you mean about them being happy to sleep all day!

I've got two, and agree it works, they're company for each other and they always have a playmate when we're out. I was seriously considering getting a third, but haven't, and am really glad, as I know I would have found it too much. Sometimes I find my two too much. It's just basically having the time to give them as much exercise they require (mine are quite big). I also think that a third would have upset the balance. The 'doggy dynamics' if you like.

I had two dogs for a while and they did play together well, but it depends what other dog you get to play with your springer, if its a puppy it'll need you to be around alot when its young, and if you get a rescue dog it may have issues with being left alone, I'd just be acreful in what other dog you choose. Can you pop home at lunchtime to let them out? Or you could get a cat, some dogs love cats for company and they'll curl up together. Think about the pros & cons of having two dogs. They will excercise each other, but cost more, if you go away its harder to take them with you, they take up more room in the car and harder to walk two on a lead, but it is lovely when they play together.