Reasons Why 'Don't Get a Pair': The Case Against Dual D
Man's best friend is the loyal dog, providing us with endless companionship and joy in our daily lives. Yet, have you ever heard the old saying, "Don't raise two dogs at once"? What does this phrase really mean? Today, Dr. Oxygen Pet is here to uncover the mystery!
What Does "Don't Raise Two Dogs at Once" Mean?
The phrase "Don't raise two dogs at once" originates from a somewhat superstitious traditional belief. In Chinese characters, the character for "dog" (犬) shares a similar structure with the character for "cry" (哭). The sidebyside placement of two "dogs" can evoke the image of crying, leading some to believe that having two dogs in the same home brings misfortune or disharmony, foreshadowing arguments and tears within the family.
This association is purely based on a textual coincidence and lacks any substantial scientific foundation. Therefore, as educated individuals who adhere to materialism, we can disregard such beliefs.
However, realistically speaking, raising two dogs can indeed introduce some challenges and additional responsibilities into our lives, so it's important to think it through carefully.
What Are the Issues of Raising Two Dogs Simultaneously?
1. Increased Cost of Care
Dogs have hearty appetites, so raising two means providing double the food, as well as additional expenses for items like leashes, toys, crates, and bowls. This can be a significant burden for some pet owners. Moreover, if one dog contracts parasites or a contagious disease, it could potentially infect the other, doubling the treatment costs.
2. Reproduction Concerns
For those with a male and a female dog, timely sterilization is necessary to prevent frequent breeding, which can add more to the care burden.
3. Increased Time Commitment
Dogs are energetic and require daily walks and playtime. Walking two dogs at once can be quite challenging, especially for those with limited physical strength, such as some young women, who may find it a daunting task.
4. Higher Risk of Destruction
Dogs often mimic each other's behaviors. If one dog starts destructive behavior, the other may follow suit, leading to potential damage to furniture, curtains, tissues, and carpets in the home.
5. Interdog Relations
While two dogs can keep each other company and reduce loneliness, some dogs have strong territorial instincts. This can lead to disputes over territory, food, or attention, resulting in fights and barking. Pet owners will need to be patient and provide socialization training for their dogs.
In summary, the saying "Don't raise two dogs at once" is more steeped in the superstitious elements of traditional culture rather than scientific guidance. When deciding whether to have two dogs, the key is to assess your personal and family circumstances, including financial capacity, living environment, time commitment, and whether you are prepared mentally and skillfully to handle the challenges of a multipet household.
