This is the time of the year when new puppy announcements are popping up on social media. Households are getting new additions to their families because many feel like cavaliers need company from another dog. I’ve experienced and done the same.
What was supposed to be our first dog, turned out to be two dogs, cavalier brothers from the same litter. My mother explained to us that the two would keep each other company.
In reality, she just felt terrible for the raggedy cavalier puppy no one wanted. Then years later I continued the two-dog-trend when I decided that Haiku (b&t) needed a friend and we got Halla (tri).
But do cavaliers need another dog? Do they require the company of another dog or can they be by themselves?
In this article, I’ll explain why so many people resort to getting two dogs, the benefits of having two dogs, and whether it’s necessary.
Understanding Cavalier King Charles Spaniels’ Social Needs
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are social dogs. The breed’s purpose is to be a companion and therefore they thrive on human companionship and seek out social interaction with their family members.
Cavaliers have an affectionate and friendly disposition, often described as being “people-oriented“. Their social nature extends beyond their immediate family, as cavaliers are often friendly and welcoming towards strangers, making them a popular breed for therapy and service work.
They have a natural inclination to be part of a pack, whether it’s their human family or other dogs. They form strong emotional bonds with their owners and enjoy being involved in various activities together.
The Importance of Social Interaction for Cavaliers’ Well-being
Social interaction plays a crucial role in the well-being of cavaliers. These dogs require regular social engagement for their emotional and mental health and to provide cavaliers with a sense of belonging, love, and fulfillment, promoting their overall happiness.
Through social interaction, cavaliers receive the love, attention, and mental stimulation they need, which can contribute to their overall well-being and prevent behavioral issues that may arise from social isolation.
Signs Your Cavalier May Need a Companion
Engaging with their human family and other dogs helps to alleviate feelings of loneliness and boredom. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels may experience separation anxiety when left alone for extended periods.
Cavaliers can exhibit signs of loneliness or social isolation when their need for companionship and social interaction is not adequately met.
Some common signs to watch for include the following:
- Excessive vocalization: Lonely cavaliers may bark, whine, or howl excessively, seeking attention and attempting to communicate their distress.
- Destructive behavior: When feeling isolated or bored, Cavaliers may resort to destructive chewing, digging, or scratching as a way to alleviate their frustration or anxiety.
- Decreased activity and energy: A socially isolated cavalier may become lethargic and display a lack of enthusiasm for activities they once enjoyed. They may appear less playful and less interested in exercise.
- Increased clinginess: Cavaliers may seek constant attention and become overly dependent on their owners when feeling lonely. They may follow their humans around the house and exhibit clingy behavior.
- Changes in appetite: Loneliness can affect a cavalier’s appetite, leading to decreased or increased food consumption. Some dogs may lose interest in eating, while others may overeat as a form of comfort.
- Separation anxiety: Loneliness can trigger separation anxiety in cavaliers, resulting in intense distress when separated from their owners. They may exhibit excessive pacing, and restlessness, and even engage in destructive behaviors when left alone.
Can Cavaliers be Happy as the Only Dog in the Household?
Yes, a cavalier can be happy as the only dog in the household.
I’ve been living with only one dog for over four years, and Halla has been a happy dog overall. But Halla being an only dog means that I as an owner have to provide more activities for her to do.
As long as cavaliers receive ample socialization, mental stimulation, and dedicated time with their humans, they can lead fulfilling and content lives as the sole dog in the household.
Cavalier owners need to recognize and meet their dog’s social needs. Providing opportunities for cavaliers to interact with other dogs or engage in activities that stimulate their social instincts, such as attending dog-friendly events or visits to the dog park can help fulfill their social requirements.
Some cavaliers may be more inclined to enjoy the company of other dogs, while others may be perfectly content as the sole dog in the household.
How Do I Choose the Right Breed to Complement My Cavalier?
The easiest answer is to get another Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They have the same temperaments and energy levels so two cavaliers would be a good match.
Consider the size, temperament, and breed of potential dogs, ensuring compatibility in terms of activity levels and play styles.
It’s important to introduce potential companions to your cavalier in a controlled environment to observe their interactions and ensure compatibility.
Pros and Benefits of Adding Another Dog to the Household
As I discussed above, social interactions promote better mental and emotional health for any dog.
However, adding another dog to the household can improve your dog’s life and overall well-being in various ways.
The companionship and social interaction between the dogs can serve as a source of emotional support, mitigating separation-related stress and promoting a sense of calmness.
Here is a list of potential benefits:
- Companionship: Having another dog can provide companionship and alleviate loneliness for both dogs. They can form a bond and engage in play, interaction, and mutual support.
- Socialization opportunities: Introducing a new dog can enhance socialization experiences for both dogs. They can learn from each other, develop important social skills, and engage in appropriate dog-to-dog interactions.
- Mental stimulation: Having another dog in the household can provide increased mental stimulation through play, problem-solving, and social engagement. This can help prevent boredom and promote overall mental well-being.
- Exercise and play: Dogs often enjoy physical activities with their furry companions. Having another dog can provide more opportunities for exercise, play, and energy release, helping to keep both dogs physically fit and healthy.
- Behavioral development: Dogs can learn from each other and mimic desirable behaviors. The presence of a well-behaved dog can serve as a positive role model and influence the behavior of the other dog, promoting good manners and obedience.
- Increased family enjoyment: Having multiple dogs can enhance the overall happiness and satisfaction of the entire family. The presence of more dogs can bring joy, laughter, and a sense of fulfillment to the household, creating lasting memories and intense bonds.
The Potential for Reduced Separation Anxiety
Adding another dog to the household has the potential to reduce separation anxiety in the existing cavalier. The presence of a companion can provide a sense of comfort and security, helping to alleviate feelings of distress and anxiety when the owners are away.
Haiku hated being alone and barked a lot in our apartment. Having company reduced the barking but didn’t correct the behavior altogether. He still experiences separation anxiety to some degree.
However, it’s important to note that each dog’s individual temperament and specific separation anxiety needs should be considered, and professional guidance may be beneficial in addressing and managing separation anxiety effectively.
Considerations Before Getting Another Dog
Before getting another dog, there are important considerations to keep in mind. Assessing your current lifestyle and resources is crucial to ensure you can provide adequate care and attention to multiple dogs.
Think about the dynamics of your household and whether everyone is prepared for the responsibilities of having multiple dogs.
You need to understand the financial implications and time commitment required for multiple dogs is essential.
I’ve written a comprehensive blog post about what to consider before getting a puppy where I go into detail. Click below to read!
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Introducing a New Dog to Your Cavalier
Introducing a new dog to your cavalier should be done gradually and with care. Here are some steps to help you navigate the introduction process.
Remember, each dog’s personality and past experiences can impact the introduction process. Patience, consistency, and understanding are key.
Tips For a Smooth And Successful Introduction
- Prepare the environment: Set up a neutral space where the dogs can meet, such as a park or a friend’s yard. Remove any toys or items that could cause resource guarding or tension.
- Initial meeting: Begin with a controlled introduction on neutral territory. Keep both dogs on leashes and allow them to sniff and observe each other from a distance. Watch their body language for signs of aggression or discomfort.
- Positive associations: Gradually bring the dogs closer while providing positive reinforcement. Offer treats and praise for calm and friendly behavior. This helps create positive associations between the dogs.
- Supervised time together: Gradually increase supervised time together, allowing them to interact and play. Maintain a calm environment and intervene if any signs of aggression or tension arise.
- Separate spaces: Provide different areas for each dog to retreat to. This allows them to have their own spaces and reduces potential conflicts over resources.
- Equal attention and resources: Ensure both dogs receive equal attention, affection, and resources such as toys, food, and treats. This helps prevent and reduces the likelihood of resource-guarding behaviors.
- Training and socialization: Continue training both dogs individually and together. Engage in activities that promote positive interactions and reinforce good behavior.
What If My Cavalier Doesn’t Get Along with the New Dog?
This scenario is highly unlikely with cavaliers but it can happen and if it does, it’s important to address the situation right when you notice the issue.
In these cases, gradual reintroductions and supervised interactions are a good start. Ensure the safety of both dogs by separating them and preventing any further conflict.
Consider seeking guidance from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist experienced in canine socialization. They can assess the situation, provide insights into the dynamics between the dogs, and offer strategies to help improve their relationship.
Unfortunately, if their compatibility proves unresolvable or poses a risk to either dog’s welfare, it may be necessary to consider rehoming the new dog as a last resort.
Real-Life Experience of Cavalier Owner with Multiple Dogs
My journey with cavaliers began when my parents adopted two dogs together in 2007. These two brothers were happy and content as a pair.
In 2015 my third cavalier Haiku was ‘an only child’ for three years, experienced severe separation anxiety, and demanded a lot of attention from us.
When the duo broke up due to one of them passing away, the other one moved in with us to keep Haiku company. This was a great decision and that’s how Zico and Haiku became best friends.
Unfortunately, Zico passed away in early 2019, and we were worried that Haiku couldn’t live without another dog companion. So, we got him a little cavalier sister named Halla. However, when Halla joined our family, Haiku didn’t seem thrilled about it. He mostly avoided her or tolerated her presence. There was no aggression; Haiku simply didn’t want to play or interact with Halla.
Haiku’s separation anxiety was not as severe as it was when he was by himself. Therefore the company of Halla alleviated the issue. But the two didn’t form a close bond like Zico and Haiku had previously formed.
Due to changes in my personal life, Halla and Haiku now live separately, and surprisingly, neither of them seems devastated by the change. Haiku’s separation anxiety has increased again, but Halla quickly learned to become more independent.
Having lived with one, two, and even three cavaliers, I must say that this breed is very adaptable. When a cavalier is the only dog in the household, they require more attention, affection, and socialization from their owner. The dogs are individuals and it’s not guaranteed that they will form a friendship with just any dog. That’s my experience.
Conclusion
Whether cavaliers need another dog depends on different factors and individual circumstances. While cavaliers are known to be social dogs that can benefit from canine companionship, it is not an absolute requirement for their happiness and well-being.
Cavaliers can thrive as the only dog in the household if they receive sufficient love, attention, socialization, and mental stimulation from their human family members.
Adding another dog to the household can certainly bring benefits such as companionship, enhanced socialization, and reduced separation anxiety. However, it is crucial to carefully consider factors like compatibility, resources, and the ability to provide proper care for multiple dogs before making this decision.
Ultimately, the happiness and well-being of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel depend on the quality of their human companionship, social interactions, and individual personalities. Each dog is unique, and what works for one cavalier may not necessarily be the best fit for another.
