By Daniela Lopez
Boris Jovanovic / Stocksy
Now more than ever, pets are coming into rescues in bonded pairs due to their families’ economic circumstances and lack of housing security. Dogs who are surrendered are already suffering from the bonds being broken between them and their families — breaking up dogs who have grown up together and are bonded to one another under those conditions should be avoided at all costs. So if you’re considering adopting a dog, consider adopting two: There are many advantages of adopting a bonded pair of dogs. Here’s what you need to know.
What is a bonded pair?
A bonded pair is when two dogs who share a close and special connection are available for adoption together. These dogs have formed a tight-knit bond, often due to living together or experiencing some life adventures side by side. They can offer each other comfort, companionship, and emotional support, just as all good pals do.
That’s not to say that all dogs who’ve lived together are bonded pairs. Sometimes, dogs who have been surrendered from the same household actually do better on their own (such as young littermates, dogs who don’t get along well or just need to blossom on their own).
Cross-species bonded pairs
A bonded pair can be made up of a variety of critters, including a dog and cat, a mama and her pup, an older sibling pair, and a dog and bird; you’d be amazed at the buddies that come into shelters together — the list goes on and on. Many animals actually meet and become bonded at the shelter, so giving them a chance to stay with a new friend is important, too.
What are the benefits of adopting a bonded pair?
One of the biggest benefits of adopting a bonded pair is that you’re helping them to keep a companion that would be highly traumatic for them to lose; adopting them together ensures they don’t have to go their separate ways. But there are other benefits to both you, your family, and the adopted pair.
- Dog pairs are healthier: Studies actually show that animals bonded to one another live longer and healthier lives.
- Built-in companionship: Yup, when you bring home a bonded pair, you’re providing these dogs with a lifelong friend who’s always up to play.
- Reduced separation anxiety: These dogs are less likely to suffer from separation anxiety since they have each other for comfort and reassurance when you’re not around.
- Easier transition: When you have a partner that offers you stability, that adjustment period when joining a new home can go a little more smoothly. They can lean on each other as they adapt to their new surroundings.
- It’s a good thing to do: Giving soul mates the opportunity to stay together might also weigh in with some karmic benefits to boot. When shelters separate bonded pairs and adopt out one dog, the other dog tends to have a longer stay compared to other dogs at the shelter.
Is adopting a bonded pair more challenging?
If you think that having two companion animals is harder than having one, think again. Many dogs engage in destructive behaviors because of boredom or separation anxiety, so adopting a pair of pals can actually end up reducing the number of issues you may have to handle with just one dog. A built-in playmate naturally provides the stimulation and security many dogs need to reduce the potential for neurotic behaviors to develop. For pet parents who feel guilty or concerned about leaving their pet alone while at work, having a bonded pair can do a lot to alleviate those concerns.
But, that’s not to say bonded pairs don’t come with challenges, too. You’ll need to consider each dog’s unique needs and make sure they both receive proper care, training, and plenty of attention. While being with their bonded companion can help reduce stress, it’s also important that each dog gets individual bonding time with their pet parents, too. Separate walks and training sessions are a good place to start to build that one-on-one bonding.
Is adopting a bonded pair right for you?
There are a few things to consider before adopting a bonded pair:
- Do you have enough room in your home for two dogs to live comfortably?
- Are you prepared to provide both pups with enough exercise and mental stimulation?
- Can your budget cover a bonded pair? Two dogs mean double the expenses for food, vet care, grooming, and pet sitting.
- Do you have a sitter or caregiver who can watch both dogs when you’re away?
- If you already have pets at home, think about how they’ll feel about the new pair.
Remember, being a pet parent is a long-term responsibility, so it’s important to ensure that your lifestyle aligns with adopting an adorable set of new pals.
Adopting bonded dogs
If you’ve decided that adopting a bonded pair is right for you, start by contacting local animal shelters and rescue organizations on Adopt a Pet, which has a “bonded pair” filter. Many likely have bonded pairs of dogs (and cats) desperately in need of loving, caring homes. You can also reach out to a shelter or rescue organization that specializes in caring for “less adoptable” pets.
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