HELP - Any advice on how many dogs I should have?

[Pat Jennings]

Hi everyone. Can you help me? I have an 11 yr old Golden Retriever bitch, a 2 year old Golden Retriever bitch who is a bit of a handful at times and my darling Archie a 15 week old black Labradoodle. We have made a super little group but I'm in a bit of a dilema. Archie's brother was to go to a home but at the last minute this fell apart. He's now 16 weeks on Friday and prospective owners are wondering what's wrong with him as he hasn't been homed yet. I can't bear to see him without a loving home and like Archie he has a lovely temprament. I don't work. So what do you all think? Am I insane to want 4 dogs. Any thoughts greatly received - Pat.

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

I think that this is a very personal decision. For me personally, the magic number is 2. Do I want #3? More than anything in the whole world. But I know because of the way we take our dogs with us everywhere, that exceeding the dog to adult ration would make that a much more difficult thing to do. However, that being said, that doesn't mean I don't think that people can have more than 2. If you have the time, money, love, and proper environment to raise them, then having more is wonderful.

Another thought though is if you are just wanting the puppy because he hasn't found a home, you might suggest to the breeder that they contact the DRC (Doodle Rescue Collective) and if she would surrender the puppy I can assure you they will find a wonderful home! They are amazing!

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

I think that is completely up to you! If you can handle it (and 2 puppies at once, remember!) financially/mentally/etc..., go for it. If not, I am sure Archie will find a home and if he has trouble, you can help (through DRC if absolutely necessary).

[Lorraine Bromley]

You should also think about the older dogs and their needs and comforts. I am finding our 17 yr old is needing alot more attention and hands on care. If you already have one older one and the next one is aging and will become less tolerant of even their own family dogs if they donèt have the same energy levels. Will a baby coming in to the mix mess up the balance they need and enjoy.
Otherwise if you have all that they could ever need and can provide all that and the love and time why not.
Its full time for 20 more years plus. You also need to think of your age now and how it looks in another 10 or 15 to give the same physical needs they will still need. Having a plan if anything were to happen in your family that someone could give them a home if you couldnèt either is something to think about.
These are just some things to think about. Mind you I WANT one of every colour. Will I EVER get that, not likely. But right now its enough to have an older dog and a young dog. I couldnèt screw up their cohabitation now they have it down.

[Pat Jennings]

Hi Everyone - Thanks for all the advice - I've decided that I do owe it to my own girls & boy not to take Archie's brother on. Instead I've been helping to find him a loving home (fingers crossed). I'm sure someone 'up there' will keep an eye on him. Thanks Pat.