Should I Get A Second Corgi? Here’s The Truth
It’s a question you’ve asked yourself a lot: should I get a second corgi?
Heck, it’s a question my boyfriend and I ask ourselves constantly!
But while it sounds like a brilliant (and seriously cute) idea on the surface, there’s no denying that our lives would change massively.
Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of having two corgis, why I’ve decided to stick to one corgi, AND hear some honest advice from owners who couldn’t stick to just one!
The pros of getting another corgi
Besides the obvious benefit of adding another wonderful dog breed to your family, here are the benefits of two corgis:
Built-in playmate
As you’re already the proud owner of a corgi, you know how sociable and energetic these little dogs can be.
Having a second corgi provides a constant companion for playtime and exercise.
This is particularly helpful if you have a busy schedule that doesn’t allow you to play with your existing corgi as much as you’d like.
Reduced separation anxiety
Corgis are fiercely loyal dogs that hate being apart from their owner.
Having a second corgi can help reduce separation anxiety and provide company when you’re away from home.
Note: Whether you have one corgi or two, I still advise against leaving them home alone for extended periods of time.
Better socialization
Having two corgis can help improve both dog’s socialization skills.
Corgis can be a little antisocial if they’re not exposed to other dogs from a young age.
So, getting a second corgi can be a great way to improve the social skills of both dogs (new and original).
After all, dogs that interact with other dogs on a regular basis are more likely to be well adjusted and well behaved in social situations.
Double the love
Two corgis means twice as many cuddles, sploots, zoomies, and joy in your home… need I say more?!
The cons of getting another corgi
Despite the pros of getting a second corgi, there are some cons that you must take seriously.
Increased cost
Owning a corgi is expensive. Fact.
Owning two corigs? That means doubling the cost of food, toys, insurance (if you have it) and vet bills.
If you don’t work 100% remotely and/or can’t bring your corgis to the office with you, another big expense to consider is dog sitters or doggy daycare.
And, if you want to continue traveling in the future, you must factor in the expense of bringing your corgis with you or paying for someone to look after them.
Because here’s the thing: roping in a friend or family member to look after one corgi while you’re on vacation is one thing.
Asking them to look after two?
That’s a big repsonsibility that most people won’t be willing to do.
Potential for rivalry
Introducing a second corgi into your home can lead to rivalry and territorial behavior from your existing corgi.
This isn’t always the case, and usually – with time – this behavior will wane. However, it’s definitely something to be aware of.
Particularly if you’re planning to own two male corgis.
More responsibility
Corgis may be small dogs but they have big, demanding personalities.
They need a huge amount of attention, a lot of exercise and plenty of mental stimulation.
Not to mention all. the. grooming.
Now imagine doubling that.
That’s a lot of responsibility that shouldn’t be entered into lightly.
Important considerations before you get a second corgi
Have you got enough space?
Solo corgis make great apartment dogs, but two corgis that want to run around and play together might not be suitable for your home.
Consider the size of your home and garden, and be realistic about whether there is enough room for two corgis to play and relax comfortably.
Can you give them the time and attention they both deserve?
Like I said before, getting a second corgi should never be a replacement for your time and attention.
Whether they have a playmate or not, corgis are clingy dogs that crave human companionship.
You need to ask yourself whether you have enough time to provide adequate exercise, training, and attention devote two corgis.
Can you afford the cost?
I recommend listing out all your existing corgi expenses. Then work out how much more you’ll have to pay if you get a second.
Be realistic with these numbers and aim a little higher than you think you’ll have to pay.
That way you can be absolutely sure you’ll be able to cover the bills and any unexpected expenses that might occur.
Is your lifestyle suitable for two corgis?
Look at your lifestyle as well as your goals and plans for the future.
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Do you want to travel more?
- Will you want to move to a new city?
- Might you want to change jobs?
All of these questions have consequences that will affect how easy (or not) it is to own two corgis.
Don’t act on impulse. Instead, look to the future to see if it’s realistic to get a second corgi.
How to introduce a second corgi into the home
Take it slow
Introduce your new corgi to your existing corgi gradually and in a neutral location, like the park.
Allow them to sniff each other and get used to each other’s presence before you allow them to interact.
If possible, do this a few times before you bring your second corgi home for good.
Supervise interactions
Once you bring your corgi home, supervise all interactions between the two dogs to prevent any aggressive behavior or territorial disputes.
Provide seperate food and water
Make sure each corgi has their own food and water bowl to prevent a fight over resources.
Honest advice from people with two corgis
To help you make up your mind about getting a second corgi, I decided to poll my audience over on Instagram.
Here’s what they had to say.
I’ve heard it said — and not just regarding corgis, but of dogs in general — that two dogs is essentially the cost and expense of three, so keep that in mind that it’s going to be an investment for sure. And extra work. While it’s true that the older dog will help with training the new puppy, you do have to put some work into it because you can’t just be ‘this dog is a playmate for the other’ and leave them to their devices.
[…]
I’ve heard female/female is the worst pairing, and neutered male/neutered male is somewhat ok most of the time, but spayed female/neutered male is the best pair. When we get our second corgi, we’re going for a female.
Corgi owner on Reddit
The situation is slightly different for us because Drewbert LOVES dogs and is extremely well-mannered, tolerant, and mellow. Our worry and (current) struggle is that he’s so chill, he basically is letting his sister get away with everything.
For introduction, what you want to do is have the dogs meet outside on neutral territory, and ideally go on a very short walk together before coming in the house. Inside, I recommend that you separate them for the first week at minimum. Use baby gates and ex-pens to divide up your house as best as you can, but let your first dog get used to the puppy’s presence without forcing interaction with the puppy on him.
Your first dog will let you know when he’s ready. Signs like play bowing, sniffing, interest in the puppy through the gate/pen are positive signs. If he’s got whale eyes (where you can see a lot of white), turning away/avoidance, growling, etc. and it means he’s not fully comfortable yet. Don’t punish him for this, and don’t push him beyond his comfort level. Just take it slow!
I’ll be honest, it’s been really difficult. More difficult than other people makes it look. But every dog and every puppy is different, so you’ll have to take it one step at a time. I hope this was somewhat helpful.
The owner of Drewbert and Mon
Should you get a second corgi: The verdict
Getting a second corgi is a big commitment.
Really consider your long-term hopes and dreams and calculate whether you can afford another dog.
If you do both of things and still want to get a second corgi, then you know you’re making an informed decision.
