Two IGs More Work than One!

Well, our latest addition to the family, Ivory Gwynovere is certainly turning out to be a little character. In the past I've told people that two dogs is basically the same amount of work as one. I now retract that statement after getting our second IG. I am nevertheless thrilled to have a second IG and feel it is best for Estelle to have a buddy to run and play with (other than myself!).

The biggest difference is likely the activity level in the house. Since the arrival of little Ivory our humble home has been alive with a new energy (not always good energy either), plenty more running, fighting between the cat and the puppy and lots of playing between the two dogs. Estelle, who is a very friendly and gentle dog has also exhibited some more aggressive tendencies - this is to make certain that little Ivory knows her place in the pecking order, which is of course below both Estelle and the cat.

The benefit is that dogs truly do live to play and communicate with other dogs. Of course, they love their humans but studies show that a dog who socializes with other dogs and gets enough quality time with their canine friends are happier dogs. Before we got Ivory, Estelle would sit by the window and watch her fellow neighbourhood dog friends pass by, dreaming of the possibility of a little doggie play time. Now, she has the luxury of waking up at three in the morning and playing to her heart's content ... that is until my husband or I put an end to the festivities. Trust me, there has been plenty of playing going on. Estelle was happy as an "only dog" but somehow, I feel her life is just that much more complete with the new dog.

We take the little one out on walks without Estelle from time to time, just to help her build confidence and a certain amount of independence. Estelle is still top dog though. She gets her food first, her treats first and her toys first. If we don't make a conscious effort to do this it can leave her feeling depressed. We also shower the little one with lots of love so that she doesn't end up feeling like second fiddle.

It is amazing how different each dog is from the next. You can really see the personality shine through even in a little puppy that is 14 weeks old. Estelle has matured so quickly and seems to understand that she has a duty to keep the puppy in line ... a task she takes great pride in. The puppy is just growing into her long lanky IG legs and is learning to run. She still cannot keep pace with the adult IGs but is getting there. Suddenly, Estelle has a new respect for her buddy - she is still the lowest pecking order though! Watching IGs run together is really the most wonderful thing, it is evident that it is what they love to do. IGs were born for running. Although the big greyhounds have a faster time overall, the little IGs can give them a run for their money and have been clocked in at a faster time from 0 to 40km/hour.

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