Deciding on the right time to get a new dog can be tricky, as everyone’s time frame will be different. Some people might not give much thought to the time that passes between getting a new one after their old one passes. However, other people might question if getting a new dog right after their dog dies is wrong or need guidance on how long to wait.
The truth is that there is no definite answer as to how soon is too soon, as it all depends on when you are ready.
When to Get Another Dog After Your Dog Dies
If your beloved dog has died, you might be wondering if you should welcome a new dog into your home. Although this thought might make you feel guilty or as if you are “replacing” your deceased dog, this isn’t the case.
It’s perfectly normal to want to give your love and care to other dogs who are just as deserving of it as your deceased dog. There is no right timeline for when to get another dog after your dog dies. Each person will have a different timeline that suits them. Some people might find it appropriate for them to get a new dog a few days to weeks after their dog dies. However, some people might need a few months to years before they are ready.
It’s usually too soon to get a new dog after your dog dies if you are not fully comfortable with the decision and keep getting second thoughts. You should only get a new dog if you are fully ready to provide that dog with all the care and love they deserve. Furthermore, you should also be in the right mindset to commit to caring for the new dog for the rest of their life.
You don’t necessarily want to get a new dog to cope with the grief of your deceased dog, especially if you know you might regret the decision later on. However, some people do get new dogs while grieving over their deceased dog and have regrets afterward. Everyone grieves and copes differently with the loss of their dog, so don’t expect your timeline to be the same as everyone else’s.
When Is the Right Time to Get a Second Dog or Puppy?
If you have brought home your first dog, whether it’s a puppy or an adult, you might have trouble deciding on the right time to get a second dog. Getting your first dog is exciting and involves a lot of learning and commitment. It can take up to a year before you start understanding your first dog better and how to care for them. Plus, puppies will do a lot of growing and developing within the first year.
It’s generally recommended to start looking at getting a second dog once your first puppy is at least 1–2 years old. This can also prevent littermate syndrome, a behavioral problem that may happen when getting two puppies at once or too close together. Dogs with littermate syndrome tend to bond more closely with each other rather than you.
Puppies require proper socialization and training, which can be difficult to do if you raise two closely bonded puppies around the same age. Waiting until one of the puppies is older, properly trained, and socialized will make it easier to introduce a second dog.
Is It Wrong to Get Another Dog Right After Your Dog Dies?
It is not necessarily wrong to get another dog right after your dog dies unless you feel it is wrong. This is because the decision to get another dog is based on when you are ready. Having an overwhelming feeling that it is wrong might indicate that it is not the right time for you.
It’s best to allow yourself to grieve and follow a timeline you are comfortable with before getting another dog. The time that passes between this will be different for everyone. What matters is that you feel like you are fully prepared to commit to getting another dog. You don’t want to get another dog based on the timeline someone else feels is right for you.
If you are feeling guilty about getting another dog after your dog dies, it’s a good idea to take time to understand why you feel this way. You might have the thoughts that you are replacing your deceased dog or not honoring them properly but do know that this usually isn’t the case. Many dogs can benefit from your love, care, and devotion, so you will always have space in your heart for another one.
Final Thoughts
There is no “one answer fits all” when deciding whether it’s too soon to get another dog. Each person follows a different timeline regarding when it is right for them to get another dog. It’s important to ensure that you can commit to the new dog’s needs and not rush the process of getting a new dog if you aren’t ready.
Featured Image Credit: hedgehog94, Shutterstock
