More Than One Puppy?

At Riverdog, we don't usually recommend getting more than one puppy at a time. But if you find yourself with two at once, there are some important things to keep in mind as you grow them up!

First, remember to establish a private relationship with each puppy. You want each puppy's primary relationship to be with YOU....not with each other. (If that happens, then you essentially end up with two feral dogs running around in your house, rather than two lovely companions.) Some of your most cherished moments will be those in which you are one-on-one with each puppy, so...divide and conquer!

Second, teach each pup new behaviors individually. Come, Sit/Down, and Wait/Stay are the most basic commands your puppies need. If you try and teach these to two puppies at once, it will be impossible to get your timing right as you try to reward each puppy's progress. Plus, they will often be too distracted with each other to focus on the training at hand. Try putting one outside or in a crate with a juicy bone to chew, while you work with the other one.....then switch!

Third, teach your puppies a group name as well as a group destination. You can not only get their combined attention faster, you can also help them learn to settle while they are together. Have their favorite treats ready, and use ex-pens and doggie beds to give them a 'parking spot.'

And lastly, know that more than likely, each puppy will have a different need for attention, exercise, and quite possibly - food. Let the puppies learn that not everything in life is equal, or shared...life is not always fair! Give yourself permission to treat each one as an individual!

Two-puppy households can be a joy, if you are up for double the hard work!