How many dogs are ideal for a working couple with no one home?

Yes, the companionship of your current dog should be enough for a new dog. I have two dog and leave them at home together when I'm working, and they are fine having each other for company. If you would post again with more detail about the specific parameters would like in another dog (i.e. large, medium, small breed, etc), then I or another expert would be glad to make breed suggestions for you :-)

You are looking for the perfect dog, and he doesn't exist. Dogs do not want a "well clean comfy dog house." they want to be with their people (or, as you state, "a family dog"). A dog that primarily stays outside will not be a family dog! You mention wanting a "guardian." If your dog lives ourdoors much of the time, that area may become his "trerritory" and, if a killer got past the yard to the front door, your dog might do nothing since he may believe that the house is not his territory to protect. Very often separation anxiety is created inadvertently by the owner. Another concern I have is that you state, 'I am busy." A new dog, regardless of breed or size, needs a lot of care in order for him to acclimate to new surroundings. It does not sound to me as if you are ready to have a dog just now. Perhaps you could volunter at a vet's office or shelter to get an understanding of just how much work and time a dog can require in order to be well-adjusted and happy. If you would like to talk about this, you can click on the prompt and start a consult, where we can discuss your situation. It may be that, with a few adjustments, things might work now.

This is not an easy question at all and would depend on a vaste variety of factors indeed. If I may, I would recommend this simple test sponsored by the american kennel club about having a new dog (or a dog for the first time). https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/quizzes/are-you-ready-to-get-a-dog/ Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Adult dogs can generally be crated 8-10 hours so this schedule could be fine provided the dog does not having anxiety issues....etc. Dogs do require A LOT of time. It's almost like having a child. They require at least an hour of exercise every day (especially when they are young). They require training and affection. They need to be fed on a schedule, let out on a schedule and you will need to have them examined periodically by the veterinarian. Having a dog is very rewarding but it sounds like now is maybe not the right time to have a dog if you family is very busy. I recommend to wait until the time is right. There are pets who can be equally rewarding but require less care than a dogs. Cats make great pets and are far less dependent on humans. Though they still require attention...etc. Many people are grossed out about rats but pet rats actually make very good pets. They love their humans (if you get them as babies) and can even be trained to do tricks. You need at least 2 and they will still want your attention. I hope this provides some guidance and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Hi again! That decision is up to you. Maisy may enjoy a play mate but also remember that a new puppy can actually cause stress and anxiety for Maisy -and we know the move will already probably be stressful. Don’t forget too the work load for you and your partner- are you up for the training and cleaning up after a new pup? If so, go for it! If not, consider seeing how Maisy does with the changes and then consider a new playmate in a few months if you think it will be a good fit.

I never like to get two dogs at the same time as you are correct that they will bond with each other more than the people in the family. I would start with one, get them settled in and trained, then after six months to a year you can consider getting the first dog a companion. Dogs do enjoy companionship but they also love being with people. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you get answers to your veterinary questions.

All dogs need space to exercise and access to both physical and mental stimulation, unless you are able to take them out at least 4-6times a day a fenced garden really is recommended for any medium-large breed in order to limit boredom and destructive behaviors. I really would not recommend any retrieving/herding breeds (labradors/spaniels/collies etc) for such an arrangement but an older sight hound such as a retired greyhound which has been used to a kenneling routine and limited periods of controlled exercise would be expected to adapt quite well as long as you have the time for daily exercise and frequent toilet breaks