|
Location: B'ham (nr the airport)
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 2,963
|
|
Hi,
We've always had 1 or 2 dogs when growing up and living with my parents but as an adult since University, I've only had a single/lone dog once. when she died in 2004 I was devastated to the point that I felt my own life wasn't worth living. I know this was an extreme raction but to lose the only thing that really meant anything to me is somethign I couldn't cope with again.
Since then I've raised my Son alone (so far) and now have 3 dogs. I think dogs do better themselves generally if they're in at least a pair. I reckon the jump from 1 to 2 dogs can put people off with the amount of work and training that can be involved but once you've done it with 2, then 3 or 4 makes no real difference (other than the amount of poop scooping that's needed).
Having 3 at the moment keeps me busy enough but at the moment, there's always 1 that gets left out. If I take them out it's either as a pack of 3, or on their own. I change this around every so often so that's not really a problem. But the walk we went on today where we met up with others from this site is an ideal example. Ellie (my GSD/Akita) hasn't bene on one of these walks (she's too lazy and I'd have to carry her). Zane and Yiannis seem to enjoyit more and get the benefit of such walks but I feel guilty about leaving ellie out. I wouldn't leave her on her own at home and take both boys out so they have to take it in turns.
when I have 4 dogs, they will be paired off for walks,trainng etc. Those pairs will be alternated lots so they'll all get the chance to work and play with al the other dogs.
when my Son is older (as in 16+) I'll have at least 5/6 dogs and will proably live near the coast or somewhere where there is breathtaking scenery to look at during our walks (maybe Wales?). Although that's a pipe dream at the moment.
But to return to the original question, now I've had mor ethan 1 dog, I can't imagine what it wouldbe like to have just 1 again.
I think I'm too used to the noise and chaos that goes with having 3+ dogs.
Laura xx