MARKtoe! MAART 2023 Uitgawe 102 | Page 82

PET ZONE

One loyal companion or a playful pair ?

It ’ s important to carefully consider your circumstances before deciding how many dogs are best suited to your lifestyle .

By Nikki van Coller

Dogs are often called man ’ s best friend , and with good reason . They ’ re loyal , affectionate , and extremely intelligent animals that make wonderful companions . A question that often arises for those considering adding a furry member to their family is whether it ’ s better to have one dog or two . Here , we explore the advantages and disadvantages of each option , as well as which dogs do well as only dogs , and which need canine companionship .

The benefits of an “ only furchild ”

First , let ’ s look at the advantages of having only one dog . The obvious one is that it ’ s less work – less walking , feeding , grooming , and of course , less mess to pick up . With this , comes the affordability factor ; one dog is going to be half the cost of two . One dog bowl , harness , collar and bed ; half the food and half the vets ’ bills . If you decide to take your dogs to puppy

82 MARKtoe ! Maart 2023