In my career, I have heard this much too often.. "I am thinking about getting another dog to keep my current dog company".

Stop right there! Lets discuss a few things first. Normally we get dogs to keep US company and to provide companionship for us, the humans. When I hear these things i immediately think it’s a cop out of people not providing the things a dog needs. Human interaction, mental stimulation, physical stimulation, and TRAINING!!! I know some people have limitations on time, but with that said then they should have really reconsidered getting the original dog in the first place. Outside of falling short of what the original dog needs, adding another dog to the equation will only double the problems you are having!!!! By adding another dog, you will create an environment where your dogs will become bonded with each other and NOT with you!!!! It can make YOU feel better, but does not really help the original situation. It’s a never ending discussion. But do your dog a favor, and yourself with these tips. Dedicate some time each day to your dog, sign up for a training class. Take it for walks in the woods, or get involved with dog sport. Get involved with YOUR dog!!! Don’t be a cop out and get another dog to entertain your original dog, it wont go as well planned as you think. Of course after reading this I will get a backlash of people saying, "Well I got another dog for my little Sophie and now she is happy and they love each other".  I am not saying there are some happy endings, but take care of your dogs needs first and foremost!!!!!  Don’t be "that person" that us trainers have to deal with!!!