Considering getting 2 puppies

Question
Hi,

I love dogs and really want to get a puppy.  The problem is my boyfriend and I work full time jobs are and not home from about 8:30-6 mon-friday.  A breeder in my town suggested if i really want to a puppy i get 2.  She has chihuahuas which i love.  So i am considering buying 2 female chihuahuas they are sisters and they will be old enough to leave their mother in a few weeks.  Do you think this is a good idea?  I would block off my kitchen with a baby gate and keep food and water out all day for them, and wee-wee pads for them to go to the bathroom.  I can even come home for a little bit on my lunch break in the begining while they are still young.  Please let me know if you think this is a big mistake or will be ok?  I figure if i got one it may get very lonely but with too at least they can play together while my boyfriend and i are not home.  I do realize this is a big commitment also.  Please give me your input.

Thank you ,
Kelly

Answer
Hi Kelly,  When I have clients ask about getting 2 dogs, or another dog for the dog they have, I always let them know it can be double your pleasure or double your trouble.  Two puppies can keep each other company when you are gone, but two puppies can also get into twice the trouble when you are gone.  When you are getting two puppies, instead of a puppy for an adult dog, you have to remember that they will be going through all the stages puppies go through, the first two years of their life, together.  Dogs go through several stages in the first two years of their lives.  These include a testing stage, and even a teenage stage, so not only will you get the good stages together, you will also get the bad together.  If you are willing to go through these stages with two, and are willing to meet their needs, then I say go for it.  :)  I am a firm believer that dogs can use company, especially in busy families.  I hope this helps, and if you have any further questions, feel free to give me a holler.

Dawn