03/11/2024
MANAGING MULTIPLES
Having multiple dogs is challenging and time consuming.
This picture is of my 4 Schnauzers sleeping contentedly and peacefully together, albeit having their separate beds and space.
Pictures can be deceiving though, and this is certainly not always how it is.
Dogs don’t get to choose their housemates. We expect them to just get along with any other dog we choose to add to our home and are frustrated and stressed when this sometimes isn’t the case.
Just like people sharing a home, dogs certainly don’t always get along – at some time, there will be conflict and sometimes this can become a serious problem.
Different personalities, different needs, energy levels, ages, conflicts over resources, spaces, people, entrances, exits, health issues etc. are just some of the things that can lead to issues.
The importance of learning, recognizing and taking note of body language is so important, especially when caring for multiple dogs.
When we ignore the “whispers” of body language or simply don’t understand or notice, the whispers may soon become shouts or screams and we have missed an opportunity to manage and diffuse a situation.
Over time, sometimes just seeing the other dog becomes the trigger where initially it was only the specific circumstance or situation.
Prevention is always better than trying to “fix” a problem.
Being proactive instead of reactive is so important in managing multiple dogs.
