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Should I get a new puppy to help my older dogs cope with loss?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed | 10 years and 4 months old | 63 lbs

I have two older dogs and am wondering if getting a third younger dog for them to bond with before either of them dies will help the older dog that remains after the first one passes

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By David Darvishian

Veterinarian

Published on August 31st, 2017

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Great question. I think this depends on how well they all get along. If you screen the new dog properly and do a meet and greet, and they all end up being great companions, I think it's a great idea and shows you are thinking ahead. A death of a companion can be very devastating not only for humans but for the other pets in the house. Having another pet around would hopefully distract from and provide some relief when one of your other dogs passes. I think if you are ready for another dog and are willing to take on the financial aspect of it, it's a great idea. Best of luck with you and I hope you have many good years left with all of them.

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