Three’s a Crowd?

on January 23, 2011
in All Posts

Two very exciting things happened on this lovely, sunny Sunday.

 

I ran 2.0 miles without foot pain!

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I swapped out my newer Brooks Summon II, which I had been running in when I hurt my foot following my last marathon, for an old pair of Brooks I.  The originals.  The run was so much better!  No post-run pain… so far.

 

Pre-run breakfast was Puffins and banana:

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And then we grabbed a quick lunch of hummus sandwich and PB apple:

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And actually, I ate the sandwich in the car on the way to… the Puppy Pound!

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So – we need your advice.

 

We’re thinking about getting a third dog.  We really want a big boy, 50 – 75 pounds who can run with me.  So we drove over to the pound to look at puppies.

 

We saw a really sweet German Sheperd mix.  Her name was Lilly and her jaw was fractured – they said she had probably been kicked in the face.  As a result, her tongue will permanently stick out.  It didn’t seem to phrase her – she was a wildly happy puppy.  🙂

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But this little guy…

 

Oh, he stole our hearts.  Eight weeks old, ‘discovered’ behind a mechanic’s garage with his 4 other brothers and sisters (“Yeah, right,” said the vet), and just as cute and fluffy as can be.  He’ll be about 50 pounds when he grows up.  He was super sweet and quiet and soft.  He was very submissive and sweet – I think he’s the runt.  We’re calling him Wayne Rooney.

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He also smelled like pee pee.

 

We didn’t have our dogs rabies records so we couldn’t leave with him.  But we could go back and get him at 11 AM tomorrow…

 

What do you think?  Is three a crowd?

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(Source)

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We got Maggie in August 2006 and James in January 2007 from an independent rescue group and the pound in Pittsburgh, respectively.  The dynamic is so comfortable that we’re a little nervous about throwing a third (very calm and quiet) puppy into the mix.

 

We have the money, time, and love to dedicate to a pup!  I just wonder how it’s going to feel to be outnumbered. 😉

 

Thoughts?  Is three a crowd?   Anyone out there with multiple pups who can comment?

{ 277 comments }

 

  • Annie@stronghealthyfit January 23, 2011, 5:45 pm

    It’s not! Go for it! 🙂

  • Errign January 23, 2011, 5:45 pm

    I think if you’re prepared & financially/time wise can take on a puppy, go for it, as long as M & J would be cool with another furry friend 🙂

  • Elin @andserenitytoo January 23, 2011, 5:49 pm

    He’s so cute! Way cuter than the real Wayne may I add 😉
    Can’t you bring your dogs to the pound with you and let them all play together in the yard or something? Maybe then you can get an idea of what they’re like together…

  • Laura @ DramaticallyFit (New blog!) January 23, 2011, 5:50 pm

    My dad’s a vet and he said that as long as the two dogs you already have are friendly with each other, introducing another dog (especially one who seems quiet and pretty chill) should not be a problem. Also, introducing the new dog when he is still pretty young will help him bond to Maggie and James even better. I think it would be nice for you to have a dog that could run with you! And he seems like a sweet little baby. What breed(s) of dog is little Wayne Rooney?

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 5:58 pm

      Thank you for this comment! He is a Golden Chow mix I think.

      • Dominique January 23, 2011, 10:07 pm

        I’m in love with Chows and now a Golden Chow mix? That photo makes my heart melt. Puppy WR is so cute!

        I’m in agreement with the rest that if you have the money and time to support another puppy and if they all get along, it’s a win-win situation.

        Also, if you do get WR, I will be showing pics of him to the BF all the time. I already do that with M & J.

      • Ann January 24, 2011, 9:00 am

        Caitlin,

        My sister had a golden chow mix. He was probably one of the best dogs ever. His name was Leo and he had the best temperament.

        Good luck!

  • Ali January 23, 2011, 5:52 pm

    Ooh, I’ll be following this with great interest as I have one dog and want to get another. I think if you are already doing the dog routine with one or two (walking, etc), adding another one doesn’t seem like it would change your life too much ( pet hair is the only issue I can think of aside from added vet bills).

  • Mary January 23, 2011, 5:56 pm

    Personally, I dont think *I* could handle three dogs but if your into it, GO FOR IT!! Everytime I hear a story of an abused dog, it absolutely breaks my heart 🙁 I think it’s great that you give these adorable puppies a loving home.

  • Wendy January 23, 2011, 5:58 pm

    I have NO idea, since I don’t even own one dog (two small kids and two cats is plenty for me right now). But he is adorable!

  • Amanda January 23, 2011, 5:58 pm

    I have three dogs and think it is the perfect “crowd.” Have you looked into running with puppies? Many vets recommend waiting until your dog is fully grown before running him/her due to potentially serious problems with growth plates, which can take a year or more.

    Thanks for adopting! Good luck.

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 5:59 pm

      Yes I know I have to wait until he’s one – wahh! But that’s ok because I’m going to have lots of time to train him before I run him. Do you run with yours?

  • Faith @ lovelyascharged January 23, 2011, 5:59 pm

    I say as long as you can responsibly take care of any animals in your possession, you’re good to go. Three seems like it could work, as long as you’re able to handle it! I love the little German shepherd. I can’t wait to move into an apartment of my own where I can get a dog!

  • Catherine January 23, 2011, 6:01 pm

    Like Laura said above it should be ok, but because this dog will be larger than James and Maggie, you might want ask the shelter if you can bring them to meet the new addition it might help in the socialization process.

  • pam January 23, 2011, 6:01 pm

    Do it!! I have two doxies that have been together for eight years. A year ago I brought home (1.5 lb.) puppy that a friend encouraged me to take. She is a little mixed yorkie and something else. My girl and boy LOVE her. As do we! My boy dachs. is VERY dominate..so I worried. It took her a month to “fit” in. Now, none of us, the dogs, my friend can even imagine life without Ali. 🙂

  • Erin January 23, 2011, 6:03 pm

    Oh my both are soooo precious…I say DO IT!! We have a houseful and I wouldn’t have it any other way 🙂

  • kate January 23, 2011, 6:03 pm

    o.m.g. GET HIM!! dogs will forever and always melt my heart and THAT is one cute pup!!

  • Caitlyn (A Spoonful of Life) January 23, 2011, 6:04 pm

    How can you resist a cute fuzzy face like that?! He reminds me of the dogs in the Land’s End magazines. Adorable.

    I say go for it. Three might be a crowd, but it can also be a family!

  • Jenn @ LiveWellFitNow January 23, 2011, 6:06 pm

    I love that you two adopt…and both are precious.

    I don’t think 3 is too much of a crowd at all. 🙂 That is just a family! A growing one!

  • Amanda January 23, 2011, 6:06 pm

    Do it! Do it! Do it! That puppy melts my heart…. omg he’s so sweet! All my beasties are rescues I could never ‘buy’ a pet. I love that all your pets are rescues, it makes me happy that other animals are being adopted into loving homes.

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 6:47 pm

      Me too! A guy at the shelter adopted a heartworm positive pup and it was so sweet.

      • Rebecca Meier January 24, 2011, 2:23 pm

        My husband & I adopted a third dog a few weeks ago. He’s an English Bulldog/Pitbull mix who’s heartworm positive. He had bad kennel cough & double ear infections, so we wanted to give him a chance b/c we figured no one else would…that little stinker has completely won over our hearts! Took him to the vet the next day & the vet said it was admirable of us to take in a sick dog b/c most wouldn’t.

        We have one purebred & one shelter dog already and had been going back & forth about a third. We went to the shelter “just to look” and wound up coming home with our third.

        Gotta be honest, after two, three isn’t much different! So I say GO FOR IT! You won’t be disappointed 🙂

        • Caitlin January 24, 2011, 2:31 pm

          Thank you for adopting a special needs puppy!!!

  • Natalie January 23, 2011, 6:07 pm

    I have a dog and two cats. I’ve had the cats for six years (they’re known as the Mookies) and the dog (Norma) was recently adopted after I moved into my uncle’s house. Pets are just little blessings, so I say the more the merrier (if you have the resources to feed them and walk them etc). The main advice I would give you is to give them their own space and let them feel each other out. They’ll figure out their own little niche as long as you don’t try to force them on each other. Make sure your little dogs meet the soon to be big dog before you bring him home. BTW, He is so precious! When you wrote that he smelled like pee pee I burst into laughter. He just looks to cute to smell bad and I’m sure he could benefit from some TLC.

  • Gina G January 23, 2011, 6:07 pm

    I think the more the merrier! Lilly looks so happy being held and I am sure she will have a harder time being adopted..

  • Jessica January 23, 2011, 6:11 pm

    I’ve always wanted to get a second dog, but now that we’re expecting a baby, I think it was for the best that we didn’t.

    I know you’ve had baby on the brain, but plan on waiting a while. Just take that into consideration when adding another animal.

  • christina cadden January 23, 2011, 6:11 pm

    I would take all those doggies home in a heart beat!

  • Laura January 23, 2011, 6:12 pm

    The fun, puppy loving side of me says go for it, but the financial side of me leans toward no. If I remember correctly, you all are working toward saving and being responsible with finances. With dogs come additional costs (as I know you know! :)), and larger dogs may cost more than M&J if only for the amount of food he’ll eat compared to M&J. My thought is to put the money toward the baby fund and house fund. You can always go to the animal shelter as a volunteer and play with the dogs for free! As for a dog to run with, maybe you can do some research and see if anyone in your area has a large dog that they don’t have time to exercise. Maybe you could help them out while meeting your own desire to run with a big dog? My recommendation would be to explore your free options before bringing another dog (and his expenses) under your roof.

    Good luck with whatever you decide to do!

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 6:59 pm

      But money in the bank is not furry and gives kisses! Haha 🙂

      • Hilary January 23, 2011, 7:52 pm

        Yea I was a bit confused as well as to how this fit into your budget. Not that it’s any of my business really..but I know that I almost cry over the expenses every time I take my pup to the vet! Can’t imagine that times three!!!

        • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 8:06 pm

          I think pets will always be part of our budget. We are big animal people.

  • Amanda- The Nutritionist Reviews January 23, 2011, 6:12 pm

    Aww they are both adorable! I feel so bad with the one with the jaw issue. Maggie and James would probably love to have a new sister or brother!

  • Evan Thomas January 23, 2011, 6:12 pm

    I think 3’s a lot but if you have enough room for them all and enough money to responsibly raise them then there’s no problem. I can’t wait until I can afford to take care of a dog and have the space for it. I’ve already picked out the breed, gender, and name. I’m very particular.

  • alex January 23, 2011, 6:13 pm

    I adore the german shepard! Both dogs need a loving home and the pair of you are just the family for either of them!

  • Ashley @ Thefitacademic January 23, 2011, 6:13 pm

    So sweet! That first dog with the fractured jaw just broke my heart!
    I think it’s important, since you already have 2 dogs, to see how they dynamic would work first. So introduce them, see how they do together. Let them play. They’ll surely be annoyed with a puppy at first (even if it was calm when you saw it….it won’t be calm all the time!!!), so give it long enough that everyone’s true personalities come out. And see how it goes!

  • Hannah January 23, 2011, 6:13 pm

    Lilly is a really popular baby name right now. It’s a sign!! 😉 I don’t think you can go wrong with a german sherperd – super athletic and loyal. Can’t wait to see what you get!

  • jen @ taste life January 23, 2011, 6:14 pm

    Oh my gosh he is soooo adorable!!! I am a terrible person to ask, because pets absolutely melt my freaking heart. I have two cats – but I’d love to have a dog and just don’t have the space. Just remember a bigger dog will take up more space and eat more food! Be prepared for the extra costs. But I hope you get him!!!

  • Laura (On the Threshold of Greatness) January 23, 2011, 6:15 pm

    Adorable!!!! The only bad thing I can think of is the massive shedding that might happen! 😉 I have a large golden/malamute/samoyed mix and my house is never going to be completely fur-free. Totally worth it though!

    I don’t think three’s a crowd at all! If you’re willing to provide a safe, loving home for a pet that needs one, then I say go ahead!

  • Lisa (I'm an Okie) January 23, 2011, 6:17 pm

    It’s my humble opinion that you can never have too many dogs 🙂

  • shelby January 23, 2011, 6:17 pm

    If you are looking for a running partner, you might be better off looking at adopting a young adult as opposed to a puppy. Puppy fuzz is so hard to resist, but there are so many older animals who need homes too! (And you wouldn’t have to wait 18+ months to have a running partner, as you know you can’t run with a puppy.)

    In either case, thanks for adopting (if you do decide to go through with it)!

  • Lauren January 23, 2011, 6:17 pm

    Go for it! I love running with my dog when I go home.

  • Averie (LoveVeggiesAndYoga) January 23, 2011, 6:18 pm

    I think only you know the answer to the 3 dog question. Not gonna lie, we had two dogs, when i was about your age, I really wanted a 3rd (i think i just wanted a baby but didnt know it at the time!) and then we got 3. And it was a crowd. And then I got pregnant..and we really had a crowd on our hands 🙂 I say do what your heart desires but know that if you ever have a baby…plus 3 dogs…you will have lots of take care of 🙂

    • lindsay January 23, 2011, 6:26 pm

      This is the only thing I could think of, as well. I totally believe that if all the dogs get along and you can comfortably care for them, then go for it! But, I know you are also beginning to think about starting a family. Taking care of three dogs and a baby will be a lot of work! Plus, you really do have to watch dogs and babies carefully, no matter how much you trust your pups. So that is another pup to watch around your little one. But, again, if you are up for it, I say go for it! Just something to consider 🙂

      • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 6:56 pm

        I think we’ve decided to wait a few years to have a bebe, so hopefully we will adjust. 🙂

        • Clare January 23, 2011, 9:18 pm

          Oooh…it kills me to say this because I LOVE dogs and if left to my own devices I would have a pack of them AND that is such an adorable puppy but…we had two high-energy Jack Russells when my first baby came along. Before baby they were manageable but trying to walk them both and manage a stroller with a sometimes crying baby was very challenging. It became more of an issue when my daughter got older and we had other moms and toddlers over to the house; although the dogs were lovely and friendly they could be quite intimidating to other children that weren’t as dog-friendly as ours and I ended up having to coop them up when we had people over. It’s just something to think about…Maggie and James look like they are extremely calm and very kid friendly but three dogs is a LOT in a house with kids as well. I know you want to wait to have kids but dogs can live up to 17-18 years so you have to think about that. Also; if you have dogs that HAVE to have long walks daily it can be difficult when you have little ones and it’s very cold/rainy, snowy etc. We have one very calm, well behaved dog right now plus three active kids. It’s ALOT to manage them all when we go for walks without my husband along. Sorry to be so depressing…these are just things that I never would have thought of prior to having the kid/dog combination.

  • abbi January 23, 2011, 6:19 pm

    Nope, don’t think 3 is too many. We’ve been considering adding a 3rd as well. I volunteer at a shelter and want it to be a case that really needs a good home. We’ve got one big (lab mix 65/70 pounds), and a decent size beagle (30-ish pounds) and think we’d be able to add another one in the somewhat large size. My sister has 3 and it’s not too much, other people I’ve talked to say 3 is pretty good but it gets chaotic with any more than 3. They’re both adorable but what dog isn’t?!?

  • hippierunner January 23, 2011, 6:20 pm

    I think it’s so sweet of you guys to consider giving another dog a loving home but I feel like that would be a lot! Especially if you are considering having a baby, you don’t want to have more than you can handle on your hands.

  • Ellen January 23, 2011, 6:20 pm

    Just a few things to think about. Make sure you want the dog simply to have another dog, not with the requirement that it will run with you, just in case the dog isn’t much of a runner type. Particularly since this dog is very calm, has a thick coat (will he over heat running many months out of the year?), and it is an unidentified mix (what if it’s a chow cocker spaniel, instead of a chow golden and is only 40 lbs full grown?).

    I know you aren’t the type to get a dog and give up on it, but I so often encounter people disappointed by what their puppies grow up to be. A bit older dog– maybe 5 months or so– would maybe give you a better idea of its runner potential while still being very trainable.

    Anyway, both those pups are gorgeous! I’m jealous of your ability to have 3 dogs 🙂

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 6:57 pm

      Hahah I like fast walkers, too 🙂 I would just love another pooch.

  • Jess@atasteofconfidence January 23, 2011, 6:20 pm

    Those puppies are ADORABLE. I think even if 3 was too many, I would be too tempted to get one after seeing the guys!

  • Amanda January 23, 2011, 6:20 pm

    I’m biased because chows are my absolute favorite breed of dog, but I think it’s imperative to bring that adorable boy home. And chows and chow mixes are the sweetest dogs you can imagine, and very loyal. My chow would never hurt a soul but he has a fearsome bark, so he keeps his enemies out of the house.

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 6:57 pm

      I’ve heard such bad things about chows!! Do you think its all true or hype?

      • Brittany January 23, 2011, 7:04 pm

        I have a rottweiler and she looks mean and tough but is actually the sweetest dog EVER !! its all in how you raise them I swear !

      • Megan (Running Foodie) January 23, 2011, 8:02 pm

        My husband had a Chow growing up and his parents just adopted another one. I’ve heard horrible things about the breed too, but every Chow I’ve met has been a TOTAL sweetheart. My husband DID say that his dog growing up HATED the mailman and almost dug a hole under the backyard fence (through CEMENT!) trying to get out whenever the mailman came around. But I think you run that risk with any dog! 🙂

      • Kristen January 23, 2011, 8:08 pm

        Love both the doggas!! It would be so hard for me to decide which to bring home. Just wanted to comment because I have a chow golden mix that we adopted 4 years ago and she is the sweetest, calmest, most laid back dog ever. She has the best personality and is loved by everyone! However, she isn’t the best runner. I think she overheats easily (we live in Southern California so it’s often quite warm) and she gets tired quickly, but she can go about 4-5 miles before we have to call it quits. The german shepherd might be a better running choice, but chows are so adorable too!

      • Amanda January 24, 2011, 2:03 pm

        Yeah it totally depends on how you raise the dog. I think a lot of chows tend to be kind of aloof, but you have to train them to be mean. I think most of the bad things you hear about chows are based on people who hear them bark. Since chows are often territorial and they have a mean bark, people think they are going to attack. My chow for instance will bark at someone if they are coming up to the house, but as soon as I let them in, he chills out completely (crisis averted?). I think you’d have to be a madman to train a chow to fight anyway; their majestic fur coats would get tangled.

  • Gabriela @ Une Vie Saine January 23, 2011, 6:21 pm

    Do it!! If you really, really want another dog and think that he’s the one, then I think you should take the plunge. BUT- really think about it. We’ve gone to the ASPCA so many times looking for a new dog for our family and always seem to fall in love with a pup, but after thinking about it realize he might not fit into our family as well as he could. It’s really sad to give up a dog that you’ve fallen fore, but remember that in the long run it’s better to wait for the perfect pup for your situation!!

    I have to say though, both are absolutely adorable. I couldn’t say no 🙂

  • Jess January 23, 2011, 6:22 pm

    When it comes to dogs, the more the better in my opinion! You guys will make great puppy parents all over again 🙂

  • Laura January 23, 2011, 6:23 pm

    We just recently adopted our second dog and it was a really difficult transition for us. We had looked for literally six months and each second dog we introduced did NOT get along with our original dog. The second dog we adopted is her same size (both our dogs are 50 pounds) and I think that really helps. We had been wanting a dog that was larger – about 70 pounds and they all would play too rough with our first dog. We were a little afraid someone would get hurt while playing.

    I would just be careful about the size difference if you think James will play with the new dog. I am assuming Maggie will not play 😉 I’ve also heard from friends that bringing a third dog into the home means that it’s usually two dogs against one – but since Maggie isn’t very social, this probably wouldn’t a problem for y’all!

    I’m dying to get a third dog 🙂 Except I want a smaller dog this time – a lap puppy!

    • Laura January 23, 2011, 6:26 pm

      I also forgot to mention our first dog is half chow, half shiba inu. Chows shed A LOT. Twice a year our dog grows in a new coat and the amount of hair she sheds is just ridiculous. Just be aware of the shedding factor!

      • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 6:59 pm

        Do you brush her constantly? I think I would like brushing a pup.

        • Brittany January 23, 2011, 7:07 pm

          Prepare To buy a TON of lint rollers ! Nothing helps with dogs that shed.

        • Laura January 23, 2011, 8:09 pm

          We brush her a few tines a week. And honestly we should brush her more. Its actually less now though with the new dog because she always wants the attention and interferes when we give the shiba attention.

          During shedding season you could brush her for 30 minutes straight and still pull out clumps of hair. They make special shampoos and brushes for heavy shredders but we just have a basic brush 😉

          Chows are so sweet and soft though! I think its worth dealing with the shedding personally!

          Good luck my friend! Lots of lint rollers and a good vacuum and you’ll be set!

        • kristin January 23, 2011, 9:10 pm

          do you already have a furminator for maggie and james? i’m not a dog owner- just one awesome cat- but i’m sure the benefits of the brush are equal. i love, love, love, love, love how much loose hair it gets out of their coats! when we consistently brush our cat it cuts down on a lot of shedding- and our cat is a medium long hair, so he has a ton.

        • Marisa January 23, 2011, 10:37 pm

          I have a chow/shepherd mix, Sasha, she is almost 10yrs old now, but the picture above is exactly what she looked like as a puppy. I also got her from our local pound. I have to agree with the others about the shedding, it can at times be exhausting! She is the absolute sweetest dog, but the shedding can get out of hand, and can be a lot of work. We do brush her once a week, and in the summer months, we actually have her shaved to about a half inch. Also, their coats are very thick, so it can take some effort to bathe them. Sometimes it seems as though her fur never really gets wet underneath. I actually bring her to the vet to get bathed now, she is to big (Sasha weighed almost 72lbs at her last visit) to get in the tub, and I can’t bare to wash her with cold water from the hose.

          As for a running dog, I’m not so sure. Sasha loves walks, but her energy seems to dwindle quickly. Of course she is much older now, and enjoys sleeping more than anything!

          All that being said, Sasha, is a great dog!!! I have three children and she has always been very loving with each of them. Good luck on your decision, I know it can be a hard one to make.

  • Meagan January 23, 2011, 6:23 pm

    I’d say yes! You can never have too much doggie love in your home!!

  • Bethany @ More Fruit Please January 23, 2011, 6:24 pm

    I don’t think three’s too many, however, if I was planning on starting a family soon, I’d be a little nervous about committing to a large dog who’s going to require a lot of time and exercise on top of what you already give Maggie and James. When I was in the market to adopt a dog a year ago, I was actually rejected from a rescue agency based on the fact that I’m a young female who would most likely have kids in the near future which wouldn’t be fair to the dog. I disagreed with that opinion, since this was going to be my first dog and wanted it for the purpose of someday being a family dog, however, I see where they were coming from. I just think you have to plan your timing out properly. Both puppies are really cute though!

  • VeggieGirl January 23, 2011, 6:24 pm

    I know how much you love and care for your current dogs, so I know that the third one would be in a fabulous home 🙂 Go for it!

  • Jen January 23, 2011, 6:24 pm

    If you have the room and the finances for another dog, three is never a crowd! Good for you guys for going to the pound for a pup! I hope you guys bring Wayne home tomorrow…he’s beautiful and I think he’ll make a lovely addition to your home. Lucky him and lucky you!

  • Erin (Travel, Eat, Repeat) January 23, 2011, 6:24 pm

    I guess it depends how Maggie and James will react to a new brother or sister and whether it’s an option financially. Big dogs need more food, more space and (in my experience) more attention.

  • Ashley January 23, 2011, 6:25 pm

    I feel like that would be a lot but if you feel you can handle it, go for it. That dog is absolutely adorable! His face is just precious!

  • Courtney @ The Granola Chronicles January 23, 2011, 6:25 pm

    Do it! Wayne needs a home like the one you can provide for him!!

  • Robin January 23, 2011, 6:26 pm

    That puppy is so cute5, but I have to agree with it being too much. If you are set on getting pregnant next year, I would not recommend introducing another pet into your household. When my daughters were born, our lives were turned upside down and having an additional pet would really be too much work. Wait until your kids are older and can help pick out a puppy.

  • Rebecca January 23, 2011, 6:26 pm

    I think only youandthe hubs could truly make the decision of it a 3rd dog will work with your family dynamic…that being said, when we went to adopt our dog we brought along a friend’s dog to test out how the new dog would get along with others, I would definitely try to bring Maggie and James along if you can next time. Also our dog is 45 lbs and is the perfect size for a running companion 😉

  • Elizabeth @ The Sweet Life January 23, 2011, 6:26 pm

    oh wow–both of them are totally adorable. three dogs is a lot to handle but wow–so cute.

  • Me-Linh @ Sweet and Sweat January 23, 2011, 6:26 pm

    Lil Wayne looks like a fluffy teddy bear! We were going to get a chowchow mix from the pound too but since I was young we didn’t want a big dog in the house.
    Anyway I say go for it.
    What’s life with a little risk? Or a soon-to-be-50-lb risk in this case 🙂

  • amy January 23, 2011, 6:26 pm

    Aww yay! I think its a great idea, and I love that you adopt rather than buying from a breeder.
    I have a lab mix that is now 6 who loves to run! The vet said it’s good for him (he has anxiety), and I feel better running alone having a 75lb dog with me.

  • Sana January 23, 2011, 6:26 pm

    I can’t wait for your new addition!!!! So happy for you guys 🙂

  • Jessica January 23, 2011, 6:27 pm

    my parents have 4 small dogs (2 pugs and 2 mini schnauzers) and just got a 5th who is a big dog. The dynamic is hard, but that’s just because the other dogs didn’t get to establish the doggy pecking order when he was a puppy. As long as you get a young dog, Maggie and James will still be a higher order than him, no matter if they eventually will only be a quarter his size. Go for it! You can never have too much love 🙂

  • Tamara January 23, 2011, 6:27 pm

    That poor baby Lilly 🙁 it makes me physically ill that someone could do that to a sweet puppy. I’m all teary now.
    I say if you feel ready financially and time wise, go for it! You guys awfully have a passion for animals, and would invest in their well being, so why not!?

  • Juli D. January 23, 2011, 6:27 pm

    3 is not a crowd – and a lot of shelters will let you “test drive” the dog to see if the dynamic works. As long as Maggie and James are friendly and the new dog is friendly, you should be fine. The real trouble comes when 2 dogs are dominant, but if 2 or all of them are submissive and none or one is dominant, you should be fine. It helps that the new one will be a puppy. I suggest researching the breeds tonight (German Shepherds are smart, loyal, quick to learn but can have more aggressive tendencies and are very high energy). I can’t quite tell what the second one is, part Chow Chow maybe? Chow chows can be aggressive, dominant and protective too but less high energy than a Shepherd (we rescued a dominant, aggressive Chow Chow mix who has been a lot of work.) But, since you are getting a puppy just do a LOT of socialization with both of them – dog park, puppy class (beyond your 2 dogs) and the aggression shouldn’t be a problem. Just do your research before purchase and you should be fine!

  • Anne Marie January 23, 2011, 6:28 pm

    I saw if you want to go for it!! We have a dog and a cat and I’m dying for a third furry friend 🙂

  • Amy January 23, 2011, 6:28 pm

    DO IT.

    It looks just like a baby Jersey (I call all goldens Jersey!) and honestly… goldens are the greatest, and make excellent running partners! 🙂

  • Courtney aka ThatRunnerChick January 23, 2011, 6:29 pm

    No way is 3 a crowd! I think if you have enough room, and enough love for a third dog–adopting a dog and getting it out of the shelter shouldn’t be a question!

    We are in the process of adopting a third right now also, the thought of dogs in shelters always gets me to the point I think Ill be the old lady with 15 dogs in her house!

  • Brie @ Brie Fit January 23, 2011, 6:29 pm

    We have three pets–two cats and a dog–and it’s definitely our limit, and a lot of fun, but not a crowd!

    Will they let Maggie and James come in to meet him first? I used to work at a shelter that did that, and it might be a good trial.

    Good luck! They’re both adorable.

  • Caroline January 23, 2011, 6:29 pm

    We have two dogs, a 40 lb pit bull mix and a 17 lb jack russell. New Years weekend we took in a stray who looked like a full-fledged boxer mix, probably less than a year old and already about 35 lbs. She is the sweetest thing ever! We were so in love but we live in a 95 square foot apartment, so it was just a little crazy with three dogs. (Thankfully our neighbors took her, so we still see her once in a blue moon) I think with two smaller dogs (as long as they play well with bigger dogs) you’d be totally fine with a third dog in the space that I’ve seen on the blog. Especially if you run with them regularly.
    But I totally want to save all the pound puppies in the world, so maybe I’m not the best source. 🙂

  • Camille January 23, 2011, 6:30 pm

    Okay, here’s my experience having three dogs:
    We have always had two dogs and they got along really well and were the best of friends. However, when my Mom got remarried, my Stepdad brought his dog in to our house and it was like all hell broke loose. Dogs were snapping at each other and growling and it was really ugly. Eventually they stopped being aggressive and just avoided each other, but in our case, three was definitely a crowd. After his dog passed away, everything was calm again.
    I guess it really depends on the temperament of James and Maggie, but in my experience, two seems to be the magic number.

    Those puppies are pretty darn cute though 🙂

  • Angie January 23, 2011, 6:30 pm

    Such Cute pups! congrats on the 2 mile run!

  • Amy January 23, 2011, 6:31 pm

    Oh.. and I did a “Learn to Run” with Jersey, just like I did with myself to get her used to it… Needless to say, she had no problems keeping up!

  • Heather January 23, 2011, 6:31 pm

    What a cutie! Can you arrange for a visit with your current pups to make sure everyone gets along before you go for it?

  • Allie (Live Laugh Eat) January 23, 2011, 6:32 pm

    I think it’s great you’re rescuing a puppy who would otherwise be homeless BUT I think you should think about your budget and whether or not you can afford another dog. Also, maybe you should see if he/she is okay with Maggie and James first? As in not fighting and freaking out.

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 7:00 pm

      Yea we definitely need to introduce!

  • mine January 23, 2011, 6:37 pm

    i don’t have dogs but i used to have two cats and as of about a year ago we adopted a third kitten. though now the cats are able to get along fine, at the beginning we had some scares. initially one of the older cats scratched the kitten (which meant an emergency vet trip one night) and then the kitten must have brought some bug with him that one of my older cats got very sick (which meant numerous trips to the vet + medication). none of this makes me regret adopting a new kitty but had i known better i would have made sure i have some extra cash stashed away for possible trips to the vet. i know that dogs get along much easier with other dogs than cats with other cats (cause cats are just like that…) but i’d just recommend (1) having the financial flexibility for possible emergency vet trips at the beginning and (2) not blaming yourself if things don’t go perfectly the first day. i felt so guilty when my cat got sick, but now they’re all fine and i’m happy we got the third kitty.

  • Angela January 23, 2011, 6:38 pm

    He’s so cute and lovely that I hope you are joking about the name. Have you read the personal life section of Wayne Rooney’s wikipedia page?! He’s not exactly Mr Popular these days!

  • Chrissy (The New Me) January 23, 2011, 6:39 pm

    I don’t normally leave links to my own posts on others’ blogs, but I can’t help myself. We just added a second dog to our family and I posted about the trials, tribulations and ultimately joys last week.

    http://christinehennessey.blogspot.com/2011/01/tale-of-two-dogs.html

    Since you already have two dogs, you know how much work each additional animal is. I personally love big dogs – mine are 112 pounds and 85 pounds (and growing!) respectively. I just want to warn you that you can’t run with a puppy until he’s at least a year old – their bones are still developing and too much jarring at a young age (the kind that comes from distance running, not playing at the park) can cause them joint problems later in life. My puppy is currently 8 months old, so I have four months to go before he can be my running partner. I can’t wait!

    That said: BRING HIM HOME! I am definitely not the person to talk someone out of a puppy – especially someone who is guaranteed to give that puppy a good home! 😉 Plus puppy photos are the best. Good luck!

  • sabrina January 23, 2011, 6:41 pm

    I have a golden and they shed like crazy! Not just twice a year but year-round. She absolutely has to be groomed on a regular basis.

    In my experience, the more fur the dog has, the harder it is for them to run, especially in a warm climate. It’s taken years to train our golden to jog with me, and she still can’t take the summer heat. Something to definitely keep in mind.

    [Also, she’s 85 lbs. The vet said she would only be 65! :)]

  • Sarah January 23, 2011, 6:46 pm

    I agree with the comment: make sure you want a dog, not just a dog to run with. As someone who runs with her dog, it was a much better idea in theory than in reality! On the days I run with him, I have to limit my route so I can drop him off, be aware of his pads getting over-worked, and I have to stop frequently for him to do his business which is a MUCH different experience than running by myself. I still run with him and I love it, but it wasn’t the “just add the dog to what I currently do” that I was expecting.

    I also agree with the advice some other readers gave of thinking carefully about adding a third dog if you’re planning on adding a baby in the next year or so. Do you want to run with a dog or a baby jogger more? Both can be dangerous. It’s a lot more work, and money and time, etc. etc. Not to mention dogs are expensive and you’ve been trying to save up.

    Not to be a debbie downer, because you guys are the only ones who can make the call! Just things I would think about if I were in your shoes.

  • Laine January 23, 2011, 6:47 pm

    Three is a crowd. And granted you want to run with the dog now, but will you want to run with the dog when you are queasy from morning sickness and tired? 9 months pregnant? Sleepless and nursing a new born? Exhausted from chasing a toddler?

    I’d hold off on the third dog until after you start having kids. I got one of my dogs from people who were getting rid of their “first baby” after having an actual baby and then having no time for the dog.

  • Mary (how to not be...) January 23, 2011, 6:48 pm

    That dog is so cute! I will warn that whenever we have 3 dogs at my parents’ house, no matter how well behaved everyone is, there is always an underlying level of chaos. What if you tried fostering a dog before making an adoption? Then you could test out the dynamic of a third dog before making a final commitment. My sister did this and ended up finding her 2nd dog (who looks exactly like James!)

  • Erin January 23, 2011, 6:48 pm

    My husband always said that the dog to human ratio in our house had to stay 1:1. Which means we only ever had two dogs.

    How would Maggie do with a new dog? I know she’s not exactly a social butterfly.

  • Kate Z. January 23, 2011, 6:48 pm

    Goldens are THE best! So so sweet! I don’t think three is too many, but I guess you just need to think about the fact that you may have a baby sometime in the next few years, and whether that would change your decision. He’s super cute!

  • Hilary January 23, 2011, 6:48 pm

    Get him! What a sweetie. My family has 3 dogs and the third is a Lab, while our first two are smaller (a noisy but loveable beagle and a small fiesty terrier/spaniel mix). We’ve had our lab for about a year and a half now and there aren’t many problems. While the dogs have to figure out whose the alpha of the “pack”, they seem to have sorted it out. Our little terrier mix still thinks she’s boss. If you get him and he’s super submissive, I don’t think you’ll have any problems!

  • Liz January 23, 2011, 6:57 pm

    Lets see, you just opened a clinic, you have your own business, your writing a second book, you want to have kids in the next couple of years and you already have 2 dogs. Do I think you should get another, uhh.. NO! Sheesh woman, what are you trying to do, send yourself right over the edge???

    We have 3 dogs and we knew after about 6 months that the third was too much. We are committed to it and will keep all three until they pass. After that, 2 dogs will be our max. Oh and it’s just Dh & I, we are unable to have kids. The dogs are our babies. We also have our own business and are home quite a bit, but still feel like we don’t get to spend enough time with them.

    I really think you should wait awhile and see if you really want a dog or if your just wanting a baby.

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 6:58 pm

      Hahah zing. I love the last line of this comment.

      No babies for now!

      • Liz January 23, 2011, 9:03 pm

        I was thinking about this more.. Definitely take my last line to heart. When I look back, that’s exactly what we did. We found out in September of 2009 that we would never be able to have children. We had our third dog within the month. It was definitely a baby replacement for us. It was also a quick decision and had we really thought about it, we probably wouldn’t have done it.

  • Stefanie B. January 23, 2011, 6:57 pm

    I have 4 dogs and I actually think 3 was the better number! They are their own mini-pack and they all get along so well. We had a 10 year old, and a 6 year old when we introduced Angus, and then 10 months later we introduced our 4th. It is so sweet to see them all play and love each other. I say go for it!

  • Christie January 23, 2011, 6:59 pm

    I have 2 dogs and although I’m not ready to have kids *right this second* I know that we will be ready within the next 2 years. So, I’d have to say no to the third dog. I LOVE LOVE dogs and I wish I could have more but it’s so much $$ and extra work and dogs (usually) are around for a long time so I’d consider the potential kids too.

  • ashley@quasichick January 23, 2011, 6:59 pm

    I love Puffins. I love hummus sammys. I love apples and Pb. I love puppies!

  • foodandfarm January 23, 2011, 6:59 pm

    Go for it! This will just bring you joy.

  • Bess @ Bess Be Fit January 23, 2011, 6:59 pm

    DO IT FOR SURE!! You’ll love a bigger dog to run with. I run with my labrador Maverick all the time. You’ll be giving a nice home and helping one of the many doggies who need it!

  • marie [would] January 23, 2011, 7:00 pm

    do it do it do it do it do it DO IT! omgosh and post the info for the pound for the other sweet girl, she is so cute! let me live vicariously through you!

  • Emma January 23, 2011, 7:03 pm

    Selfishly, do it because I want to see more pictures of that adorable puppy! 🙂

  • Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) January 23, 2011, 7:04 pm

    Oh my gosh…too sweet! I have no idea about the 3’s a crowd with dogs. We have two cats and they are great! I can see you needing one to run with though. I am so excited for you guys!

  • Katie @ Healthy Heddleston January 23, 2011, 7:06 pm

    Personally, I don’t think I could handle three dogs at once. But it seems like you are more of a dog person than I am.. so it might be fine.

    Would your family still be willing to take care of your pups — all three — when you guys go out of town?

  • Virginia @ YtotheUmmy January 23, 2011, 7:06 pm

    Oh my gosh that’s so exciting! I happen to be OBSESSED with shelter dogs and consider myself a pretty trusty source of advice 😉

    I don’t know if you’ve already done it but it is *so* important that maggie and james meet mr.cutie guy. You didn’t say whether or not you brought them with you, but doing so is the best way to predict the dynamic all three pups will have. maybe your dachsunds will have an issue with a big(ger) dog living with them, or maybe they’re dogs with submissive natures and the one you adopt will be an alpha…that might be problematic. things to consider!

    And you may or may not need this but this book http://product.half.ebay.com/_W0QQprZ845411 is awesome for taking care of dogs with a history of abuse/difficult past/etc.

    Also, *please* consider getting a slightly older dog…I know, I know who am I to give you advice? BUT–if you really want to make a difference in an animal’s life, get the dog people are less likely to pick out. There are also SO many benefits to getting a dog in it’s “pre-teen” years (1-3) instead of a puppy. here’s another link! 🙂 http://www.barkva.org/Reasons.aspx (it’s from the rescue that’s closest to my heart, but pretty much all the reasons apply)Obviously, I’m not going to write some “hate comment” if you choose the pup, it’s your decision. All I can ask is that you consider 🙂

    Good luck on your decision!

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 7:09 pm

      Thank you so much for this comment!

    • Msnels January 23, 2011, 9:56 pm

      Love this comment! We adopted a dachshund pomeranian mix to start and it was SO important to take her to meet other dogs before we adopted our second (also a dachshund mix). She was so laid back and sweet that it was actually really hard to find a dog that wouldn’t try to play with her/would let her do her own thing. Meeting is a must!

      She was also around 1 or 2 when we adopted her – completely trained and no puppy issues to deal with – heavenly!

  • Kristina January 23, 2011, 7:07 pm

    I have two dogs (a rottie/shep mix and a Greyhound). I also foster Greyhounds for a rescue group. Our dogs love having the occasional foster to play with (and so do we!), but by fostering, my boyfriend and I have decided that a third permanent dog is out of the question. Going from one to two dogs didn’t really affect us, but three in the house (and they are all big dogs) is definitely challenging. Walking three at a time is difficult, all the extra poop pickup is a bummer, the house is never clean, etc. We also have three cats, so we have a houseful. But it’s all up to you. A third dog is a lot of work and money, but like you said, doggie kisses are awesome. As would be a running buddy!…

  • Melanie @ Jon and Melie January 23, 2011, 7:07 pm

    We used to have 3 pets – two cats and a dog (I know it’s of course way different than 3 dogs). When we had our first baby it was much harder to take care of the animals and they started peeing in the house and waking up the baby. I also felt like I had to constantly clean-up after them cause you want a cleaner house for your baby to crawl around in. Then 17 months later we had another baby! We found loving homes for all three pets. It was just too overwhelming. I guess I’d just think about how much work 3 dogs and your babies/kids would be – not just how much work 3 dogs would be. 🙂

  • lauren January 23, 2011, 7:08 pm

    my husband & i volunteer for a breed-specific rescue, so first, THANK YOU for considering a rescue!

    Secondly, we foster (and have) dogs who are good running partners – make sure the breed(s) in the dog is one good for running….and make sure to not run with them, distances, for the first year of their lives. They need to grow completely before introducing them into running as an exercise partner.

    I run with both of mine, 50 & 60 lbs respectively, and they do provide a sense of security for me & a deterrent for others who may want to approach me. 🙂

  • Amanda @ Amanda On Foot January 23, 2011, 7:09 pm

    Why Wayne Rooney? He’s a good footballer and all but he cheats on his wife…

  • Clare @ Fitting It All In January 23, 2011, 7:11 pm

    I would never want to discourage you from rescuing an adorable puppy from the pound, and I’m sure you’ve considered it, but three dogs could be a lot – especially if you’re considering adding a REAL baby to the family soon!
    But that face..oooh that face. Hard to resist.

  • sarah January 23, 2011, 7:12 pm

    aw the golden chow puppy!! I don’t see how you can say no now that you have seen him. How far do most dogs run with people?

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 7:13 pm

      i think he could maybe go 2 – 3 miles when he’s a grown up, but some dogs can do 10.

      • Hilary January 23, 2011, 7:47 pm

        my golden retriever has run up to 12 with me. I think he could even go farther with the proper training.

      • Kate January 23, 2011, 8:26 pm

        Our Siberian Husky trained for my 2 fulls and 2 half marathons with me, but I only trained her to run up to 6 miles with me. That said, I agree with Hilary – she could totally run so much further with the right training.

  • erin January 23, 2011, 7:16 pm

    first, thanks for adopting!! i know i’m preaching to the choir but it still stands.

    can you bring maggie and james to the shelter to meet the puppy first? i volunteer at shelters and we always allow this. even though the puppy was calm and laid back when you met, it’s a puppy! just be prepared for a little craziness- their real personalities come out after they are away from the stress of the shelter.

    so, probably repeats but things to consider: shedding!, more vet bills, training a puppy, puppy eating your house, landlord approval (?), maggie getting annoyed with the annoying puppy, CUTE PUPPY PICTURES (ok, that ones for me), love and devotion for 12+ years (on both ends!).

    we’ve got two now and i’d love to foster a third but we’ve got a special needs dog (blind and deaf) who needs very understanding/easygoing roommates. plus my husband might kill me. have you considered fostering to test out if three’s a crowd? good luck with your decision!

  • AndreaClaire January 23, 2011, 7:16 pm

    Other than the fact that I can’t figure out why you’d name him after Wayne Rooney (yes, he is an amazing footballer but the man can NOT keep it in his pants… actually, that kind of fits for a dog), I see no problem with a third dog. Looking after a big dog does require more energy than a small dog but as you’re getting him to run with, that won’t be an issue.

    If you can’t have the dogs all meet before WR moves in, I would suggest separate rooms so they can smell each other under the door before actually meeting face-to-face.

  • Kristin @ The Ex-pat Diaries January 23, 2011, 7:16 pm

    Awww…get him! I’m a big fan of adopting pets from shelters and I think you guys would be the perfect family for either of those puppies. They would be lucky to have you. 😉

  • Natalie January 23, 2011, 7:17 pm

    Hi Caitlin!! I think this is my first comment on your blog. I’m more a reader than a commenter but i couldn’t resist this time! Please consider adopting Lilly; she has fewer chances to get adopted by a responsible family. I’m a dogs lover and for me both puppies are beautiful and deserve to live a happy and healthy life. If you decide to adopt the second one, maybe you can use you blog to help Lilly find a new home! What do you think?

    Caitlin, I really enjoy reading your blog and wish you the best!

    Natalie (sorry for my gramar but english isn’t my first language)
    [Puerto Rico]

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 8:03 pm

      Your English is great 🙂 We are definitely keeping Lily in mind; the pound said she’d be gone for sure in a few days though!

  • Jessica January 23, 2011, 7:18 pm

    Do it! I think 3 won’t be too many! We have 2 boxers and we got them as puppies and we just love having the bigger dogs. I think you should get the one whose tongue is hanging out..that just touched my heart that he was kicked and now it will always stick out. You have such a loving heart that I think you would provide an awesome home for this abused little sweetie….I think the cute little puppy might be too much excitement for Maggie and James and an older dog would be an easier transition for them. Good luck and I love your blog!

  • Lauren January 23, 2011, 7:21 pm

    My only concern would be the time commitment down the road when you do decide the time is right to have a baby. Babies take up a LOT of time and a lot of your energy…we have a 19 month old and a golden and I couldn’t imagine when I would have time to take care of another two dogs on top of that.

    Both of those dogs are adorable though, I know I would have a hard time walking away!

  • Natalia@ The Health Script January 23, 2011, 7:21 pm

    I don’t have three puppies, but I think you should get another one. I love dogs and it breaks my heart that so many are stuck in pounds and don’t have a happy loving family.

    We got my dog at the pound when he was 3 months old and it was the best decision we made. I don’t understand why people buy dogs from breeders or at pet shops. There are so many dogs out there that are in need of loving homes! Dogs you get from the pound aren’t any worse than any other dog, they are so so wonderful and cute. When I grow up (aka have my own house) my goal is to have at least 2 dogs at a time, all rescued from animal shelters. Sorry for the rant…this is something I am really passionate about if you can’t tell 😉

    Also, the puppy that you’re calling Wayne Rooney? I do believe that he is a relative of my dog. Seriously! Except my dogs fur is a little bit lighter.
    See for yourself!
    http://thehealthscript.blogspot.com/p/about-me.html

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 8:04 pm

      Aww so cute! Do you know what kind of mix he is?

      • Natalia@ The Health Script January 23, 2011, 8:11 pm

        He’s a golden retriever/chow chow mix! What kind is Wayne Rooney?

        • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 8:13 pm

          golden retriever/chow chow!

        • Natalia@ The Health Script January 24, 2011, 12:30 am

          Awesome! I know that all dogs are different but my dog is 9 years old now and still makes a great running buddy. He is still so hyper and active I wouldn’t consider him a “senior dog” yet. Downside: he sheds like a mother. But I think the cuteness factor makes up for it! 🙂

          I hope you decide to get another dog!

  • Joelle (The Pancake Girl) January 23, 2011, 7:22 pm

    New sneaks make all the difference in teh world! I just got orthotics for my flat feet, and they have been making a WORLD of difference.

    As for dogs, I think that’s a personal, household decision.. if you have time and energy for a puppy (they require a lot of time and attention as I’m sure you know quite well haha), then go for it! I don’t think I’d want more than two, though, personally.

  • beth January 23, 2011, 7:23 pm

    my boyfriend and I started out with three dogs (I had one, he had one and got a second the week we started dating seven years ago) and adopted a fourth last year, mostly against my will (but he was such a cute puppy…). it’s definitely a crowd at this point. I love the heck out of all my dogs, but I sometimes think about the day when I am a “normal” person with just a dog or two.

    it impacts a lot of decisions when you think about taking a vacation (boarding is expensive for larger dogs, harder to find someone to dog sit for several dogs), moving (selling a house while several dogs live there/finding a new place to suit them), vet care, making sure they each get adequate one-on-one time, etc. whether it will work for you depends on your finances, free time, if you have a yard for them to roam/enough indoor space, and your dogs’ personalities – our Frenchie puppy has livened up our older dogs (13, 9, 8 yrs old), which is a plus, but they are also a decent source of stress so I just wanted to throw some of those things out there because adding a third to the mix definitely is crazier than adding the second.

  • Caroline January 23, 2011, 7:23 pm

    Go for it! We have three dogs and love it! To be honest if we could afford it…I would get another one! We only have one child so having all the dogs are like my other children…I love it!

  • Julia January 23, 2011, 7:24 pm

    i would ask if there is a way ur new puppy can meet ur two dogs first, b4 deciding

  • Staci January 23, 2011, 7:25 pm

    We have had three dogs for 18 years! It is a very special dynamic – Wayne R looks like he has a bit of Golden – great runner, flexible, good with other dogs, and human bound – The other two will really help train!!!

  • Kate (What Kate is Cooking) January 23, 2011, 7:27 pm

    Get that dog! He has such a sweet, lovable face!

  • ART January 23, 2011, 7:29 pm

    Caitlin,
    Haven’t you mentioned that you guys are thinking of having kids in the near future? As the mom of an 18-month old and only ONE dog, I would think seriously about sticking with two pups. I love animals more than anything but the family dynamic completely changes when a kid comes into the picture and you will not have the time or energy to take care of three dogs. My dog was my baby before my son came along and I never thought it would be the case, but he doesn’t get nearly as much attention as he used to — I love him as much as I always did, but my son is my top priority. Everyone I know with kids and pets says the same thing. Just my two cents!

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 8:05 pm

      That’s true… I think we’ve decided to wait a while on kids though. But eventually there will be 3 dogs and 1 kid!

      • Jenna H January 23, 2011, 8:20 pm

        Well sort of! Maggie is so lazy I think she acts more like a cat than a dog sometimes. Adorable nonetheless, of course! :]

  • Renee January 23, 2011, 7:29 pm

    I’m always for rescuing any dog you can, but are you sure you want to add another if you’re thinking about a baby in the (near?) future? That would be my only concern, if I were in this situation.

  • Carol January 23, 2011, 7:30 pm

    Oh my gosh…what a difficult decision. And by that I mean both choosing between the dogs, and the decision to get a third pup. I know serval people have mentioned this concern already, but you have mentioned so many times that you want to have kids! My husband and I are facing the same thing: no babies now, but thinking about getting pregnant in a year or two (that is, within the dog’s lifetimes). I would LOVE to get another dog, but my (ever-rational) husband has me convinced that babies + puppies add up quickly and can be too much. Just something to really give some thought to.

    On the other hand, I want to snatch both of those little dogs and run away with them. Good luck!!

  • Lauren January 23, 2011, 7:31 pm

    Look at that picture of Hubs with Wayne Rooney!! YOU MUST GET HIM!

  • erica January 23, 2011, 7:34 pm

    If there wasn’t so much hair around our house already, I would totally get another dog. The only other thing holding me back is expecting others to take care of them when we’re gone. I feel guilty enough leaving two with my parents but if your mom is cool with it and it’s not a big deal, why not! At least you’d be home enough during the day to train!

  • Heather January 23, 2011, 7:38 pm

    I LOVE puppies and its so easy to let one melt your heart and play on your heart strings. I would def. step back for a few days and do some thinking. even if you are waiting a couple years to have a baby having three dogs, esp a big one will still be a lot. I know all dogs are different, but I would def worry about a big dog around baby (personally). I was bit by a chow as a child and am leery of them for sure. My new neighborhood I am moving into won’t even let you own a chow if you live there. Def dont want to get flamed…just something to think about. I like whoever made the comment about maybe finding some old lady with a big dog that needs exercise. Good deed plus running buddy for you! As much as I would LOVE a third dog I am not sure it would be a good idea in my opinion (I even have a good sized house and yard) in the long run.
    Sorry to ramble, I wish i could adopt every single abused dog, but I just can’t let it play on my emotions b/c its just not practical for somone saving for a house and wanting a baby in a few years. good luck with your decision!

  • Sara January 23, 2011, 7:39 pm

    I’ve never owned dogs so I can’t give you advice, but I did automatically cry out from the cuteness when I scrolled down and saw little Wayne’s photo! Who would abandon such an adorable dog?! Selfishly I hope you adopt him so we can see tons more photos of him 🙂

    On the other hand, previous commenters with more experience bring up a solid point: the time and financial commitment, and how difficult that might get once you have kids. I personally have held off from getting a pet (even though I am crazy about animals) because it just doesn’t match my lifestyle right now.

  • annie January 23, 2011, 7:41 pm

    do it!!!!!

  • Amanda January 23, 2011, 7:43 pm

    If they all get along, then 3 dogs is a perfectly fine number, especially since you do not have kids right now and have the time for another dog.

    Growing up, we always had 3 or 4 dogs and never had any issues. I currently only have one dog because I financially cannot support another one due to my current dog’s chronic health issues… but, he is lonely and bored a lot and if I did have the time and money, then I’d get another dog in a heartbeat. But for now, mine will have to settle for “playdates” once in awhile. 🙂

  • jo January 23, 2011, 7:45 pm

    adorable. take him home. and post lots of pics.

  • Beth @ DiningAndDishing January 23, 2011, 7:45 pm

    It sounds like a lot of dogs to me! But since I have none – of course it does :). My little sis is the adoption manager at a shelter so I see and hear all the time about how many dogs really need loving homes. If you have room in your life for one more I think you should absolutely go for it! 🙂

  • Meghan@travelwinedine January 23, 2011, 7:47 pm

    Well, as my brother and sister in law say about kids, it actually gets easier when you add more because they entertain themselves. I wish you could take them both. The story of the kick in the face made my heart hurt. People are jerks.
    Except for awesome ones like you who adopt 3 dogs 🙂

  • SaraRM January 23, 2011, 7:49 pm

    This is probably not what you want to hear but my first thought when I started reading this was “ohhh nooooo, not a 3rd dog”. I personally think that 3 is too many but I dont have a doubt that you wouldnt love it and take care of it if thats what you choose. People have already brought many of the reasons why not to so I wont go there but I do recommend maybe writing down the pros and cons and see which one wins and not just bc you really want a new puppy to love on and play with. It is a serious decision and you need to take time to think about what is right for your family in the long run.

    • SaraRM January 23, 2011, 7:52 pm

      But he is a precious puppy and its great your going through a shelter 🙂

  • Maria @ Oh Healthy Day January 23, 2011, 7:54 pm

    If you have the space, the time, and the funds, you can never have too many dogs!

    Since you work from home, they will get the attention and love that they need. But beware, when my cousins got a third dog (thinking they couldn’t get pregnant), out came a surprise baby and now they have their work cut out for them 🙂

  • Melissa January 23, 2011, 7:56 pm

    What a CUTE puppy! You guys (you, your husband, and the 2 pups) are a “pack” in the animal world and as long as you and your husband are the pack leaders you should be fine adding another one. I volunteer with my local humane society and we encourage potential adopters to bring their animals to “meet” before they adopt a new family member. (It’s not a prerequisite, just recommended) At the very least, make sure the pups meet on neutral territory before bringing the new boy home!

  • Beth January 23, 2011, 7:58 pm

    We’ve had two dogs for over two years and last week got a foster puppy. I think the dynamic is great although I don’t think we’ll decide to keep him so we can potentially help other pups that need a temporary home. Both those puppies are so cute!!

  • Tracy January 23, 2011, 8:00 pm

    Oh my gosh GET that second dog! I have a Golden who just turned one and we’re slowly teaching him to run with us (vet says 12 – 18 months minimum before you can run with them). They are seriously the.best.dogs – you won’t regret it! Just get ready though because the puppy stage lasts a long time and is totally different with a big dog – they are still a puppy but the size of a small human!

  • Shelly January 23, 2011, 8:00 pm

    I have 2 dogs, 2 cats (inside) and we’ve TNR’d (trap, neuter, release) several cats that we now feed who live under our house. As for having 4 pets inside, the main issues are that we spend a lot of money on vet bills and pet food- and there is a lot of animal hair in our house. Sometimes the cats don’t get along with the dogs but for the most part it’s been pretty harmonious. When I’m home by myself for an extended period of time, walking the dogs, scooping the cats, and feeding and playing with everyone can seem kind of overwhelming. But overall, I love my creatures and while I wouldn’t have *this* many animals in the future, I’d say it’s definitely do-able. It was easier when we just had 2 dogs and 1 cat too.

  • Chetney (Czesia's Adventures) January 23, 2011, 8:00 pm

    PLEASE GET THIS PUPPY SO I CAN LOOK AT HIS CUTE FACE ALL THE TIME!

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 8:06 pm

      hahah i love this comment.

  • Syl January 23, 2011, 8:01 pm

    The puppy is adorable.
    The only thing I would say is that a shedding dog is a NIGHTMERE! our dog sheds year round, although I love her to death I would never get another dog that sheds. With two kids in the mix, it’s just sometimes too much.
    Not to mention that you will go through alot of Vacuums! If you decide on the puppy, I would recommend a Dyson 😉

  • Jenny January 23, 2011, 8:01 pm

    I hate to be a Debbie Downer, but I agree with the other commenters who are saying proceed with caution. We have two cats and a dog and we’ll never own 3 animals again. We had the cats first and didn’t think a dog would be much more work. Turns out, it is. More time, money and energy than we have some days. I absolutely love my animals, they are worth all of it, but I wouldn’t do it again. We’re expecting our first human child and get a little overwhelmed thinking about feeding and caring for a fourth life. I think you really have to be committed to three animals to justify the cost and time.

    Side note, In some towns, there are laws about the maxium dogs allowed per household. I’d check with Charlotte to make sure three is okay.

  • Terri January 23, 2011, 8:01 pm

    I don’t like to leave negative comments, so I apologize for this up front but I have to say it. I just feel that when you have dogs older than 1 year old and they are happy and content and that they have already excepted each other…that it will literraly break their hearts if you bring a new “baby” home. They could potentially get literally sick over it, maybe no right away (although they could protest by not eating) but it could fester and turn into a tumor. I have actually seen this happen. I am sorry, I don’t mean to burst your bubble but its just something to think about. I read your blog everyday, I love Maggie and James and I would hate to see them feel displaced or jealous. It’s like if you have a 3 year old kid and Mommy gets preg again. Plus my other opinion is this: you alway say one day on the future (maybe near future) you want a baby…german shep’s and babies do NOT mix at all. Just sayin’ SORRY 🙁

    • Jenna H January 23, 2011, 8:16 pm

      Um, this comment is ridiculous. Of course there will be an adjustment period, but as long as Caitlin continues to show Maggie and James tons of love (which she will, duh), they will be fine!

      And as for your comparison about having a 3 year old then getting pregnant again is a horrible example and complete bullshit. 2 plus years between children is healthy and normal. As someone who majored in anthropology in college and is going to start grad school in the fall to study Medical Anthropology, anything less that 2 years between children is not ideal, as it’s hard on the mother’s body and can make your milk supply dry up before the second baby is even a year old, which conflicts with World Health Organization recommendations to breast feed until 6 months exclusively, and up to 2 years as a complement to solid food.

      • Justine January 23, 2011, 9:02 pm

        I dunno, I was 3.5 when my sister was born and I bit her finger on the way home from the hospital…

        nothing wrong with other people offering opinions! Aren’t Caitlin’s readers known for being open-minded? The OP wasn’t projecting, just offering an opinion and was apologetic up-front. No need for your passive-aggressiveness.

        • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 9:42 pm

          Ohmigod, this is the best comment. You bit your sister?!

    • Stephanie C January 23, 2011, 9:13 pm

      Just wanted to comment on the last portion. I’ve heard it the other way about Chows that they are not good around children. One of my family members had chows and had to get rid of them when they had children because they got really aggressive. I never witnessed it, but my mom always told me this story so our family has never considered the breed.
      I do admit, however, that I currently OWN a jealous dog .. so we’ll see how that goes!

      • Theresa January 24, 2011, 8:06 am

        Wow, Jenna that was rude. I hope you don’t treat your fellow students or professors that way when they give their opinions. Thank you Justine for yor kind words.

        I simply meant if you have a small child and get pregnant and bring a newborn home, obviously there is a period of adjustment, maybe jealously but you can explain to the child they can help with the baby and get them involved. You can’t explain things to dogs. They don’t understand as a human child would and have a greater tendancy to get displaced.

        Jenna, hve you ever owned multiple pets? No amount of education will ever prepare you for how individualistic each pet is and it’s reaction to new things. I know, I am a lawyer and have owned multiple pets, I hve seen first had how an older dogs heart can break when a newer pet is introduced into the mix.

        • Caitlin January 24, 2011, 8:47 am

          Everyone is entitled to their opinions, let’s just all try to play nice.

  • Maren January 23, 2011, 8:01 pm

    such a cute dog!!!! My sister and I got two cats and when she left on rotation for school, I couldn’t keep up working 30 plus hours a week and going to school full-time. Point of the story, my parents now have three cats. they LOVE it. My mom doesn’t want to give me my cat back and my dad wants to keep my sisters! 🙂 Three is definitely not a crowd!!

  • Orla January 23, 2011, 8:02 pm

    You can’t name that adorable little ball of fuzz after an aggressive, womanising thug who sleeps with prostitutes behind his pregnant wife’s back!! Name him after somebody decent and honourable! 🙂

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 8:07 pm

      Hahahahah! My husband LOLed at this comment. We believe in second chances 🙂

      • Orla January 23, 2011, 8:39 pm

        but that’s INSANE! You might as well name him Adolf Hitler or The Unabomber!

  • Jenna H January 23, 2011, 8:02 pm

    I SAY YES! You’re a great mom to Maggie & James, and I’m sure you and the husband will be a great mom to a 3rd dog :]

  • Tami January 23, 2011, 8:02 pm

    would your mom dog sit three dogs so you can go on your next vacation.

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 8:08 pm

      Yes for sure! She loves animals too.

  • Krit January 23, 2011, 8:03 pm

    Babies aside…..what does your mom say? Isn’t she the one that babysits when you go out of town? It sounds like you have the rest figured out so I say go for it! How can you resist that face?

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 8:09 pm

      Mom gave the thumbs up!

  • Amanda January 23, 2011, 8:03 pm

    Although my boyfriend and I personally have one dog, my parents have three at home. They added their third, a rescue dog, a few years ago and it’s been great for the dog dynamic. Especially if the new dog that you’re introducing isn’t going to try to be the alpha (which it doesn’t seem like he will), he will probably fall in like with M&J. So exciting!! Hope it all goes well 🙂

  • Amanda January 23, 2011, 8:03 pm

    whoops, fall in line*… but also, fall in like 🙂

  • Jessica @ Jessica Balances January 23, 2011, 8:04 pm

    You are wonderful for wanting to take in another animal in need of a good home! My heart really goes out to abandoned and abused animals… My bf adopted his dog from the pound, and they said he had been left to die IN A KENNEL (with no food or water) with his brothers and sisters for who knows how long. He was one of the only surviving pups. 🙁

    While I personally can’t imagine living with three animals, I’m sure you and your husband would manage them all just fine. I just wonder how Maggie and James would do with another dog in the mix? I bet they would LOVE having another friend to play with! And we will all love seeing more cute puppy pictures. 🙂

  • Nicole @ yuppie yogini January 23, 2011, 8:05 pm

    I’m offended that you are not an equal opportunity pet owner–you didn’t even look at the cats! 😉

    PS: You should have a New Puppy Party. Everyone can take pictures of the dog and he will get used to being the dog of a blogger.

  • ashley January 23, 2011, 8:07 pm

    get them both! please please please!

  • Ashley January 23, 2011, 8:10 pm

    Aw who could say no to that adorable face? Get him!

  • Erica January 23, 2011, 8:16 pm

    I like Lilly! What if no one ever takes her home because of her jaw…and she looks so cute! And…she would be excellent for running!

  • Whitney January 23, 2011, 8:20 pm

    I can never ever go to the animal shelter because I want to take every single one of them home. I can’t imagine adding a third to our mix, but we already have two big boys. Maybe we could handle a little one, but I really don’t think it would be fair. Our house and yard just isn’t big enough!

  • Ida January 23, 2011, 8:20 pm

    Three is a lot, esp if you want a baby in the next few years. But having a dog you could run with would be a lot of fun!

  • Megan January 23, 2011, 8:21 pm

    Both of those puppies remind me of our dog! The first looks just like her in the face and the second is a fur ball – just like Gracie was when she was a puppy! I say go for it – especially if you have someone willing to dogsit when you are out of town.

    I want to add another dog to our family so, so badly – my husband and I are totally going to wind up as the “crazy dog people” in our neighborhood one of these days!

  • Michelle January 23, 2011, 8:21 pm

    When my hubby and I got married, we became a blended family of 5 pups that weighed from 8 pounds to 95 pounds. Things took a bit of adjusting, but it definitely worked out. It took a little while, but they all warmed up to each other. It’s always interesting to sit back and see who thinks they are in charge. We’re down to 3 pups now (some of our dogs were senior citizens when we first got married), and we’ve since added our now 5 year-old son and a pot-bellied pig to the mix. Our son and the pig think they’re dogs, and the dogs don’t realize they’re dogs.

  • Michelle January 23, 2011, 8:21 pm

    My husband has a rule… the animals cannot outnumber the people. We have two rescue cats and I want a dog! (He’ll break it someday 😉 ) I say get the dog. There’s so many that need to be loved and adopted, you’ll be doing a great thing! How are Maggie and James with other dogs?

  • rebecca lustig January 23, 2011, 8:22 pm

    omg wayne rooney is ADORABLE. and i dont even really like pets all that much (ive always been one to prefer babies ha)

  • Lisa January 23, 2011, 8:27 pm

    This is a difficult choice. They are both adorable!

    I am a sucker for animals and if I could I’d adopt them all. So maybe I’m not the best person to ask. I have 2 cats and know that we cannot have another cat in the house. They are both indoor and 2 is enough.

    We want to get a puppy this year. We’re debating on what breed to get. We both like pugs, French Bulldogs and black labs. A black lab is the more ideal dog because it could hike with us or run with me.

    I think if we get a dog we’ll just get one.

    Do you have a house with a big yard?

  • Leila @ Spinach and Skittles January 23, 2011, 8:27 pm

    I only have one, and I really want a second! I don’t think three is too many 🙂

  • Whitney January 23, 2011, 8:30 pm

    I am partial to the one with the broken jaw. 🙁 Just because I feel like she might get looked over by everyone else for her imperfections!! POOR THING! I vote for the first dog 😀

  • Kate January 23, 2011, 8:30 pm

    When I first met my husband, he already had 2 dogs. They became mine, too, over time, but eventually, we added a 3rd to the mix. We had 2 huskies and 1 beagle-spaniel. I’ll admit that they were a lot of work to have all together, but we loved the dynamic they had together. The two huskies were best friends, and the beagle-spaniel we always refer to as the “sheriff,” because she always hounded or barked at them when they got rowdy 😛 Our oldest husky passed away in November, and it was so heartbreaking to see how the other two reacted to that. That said, I miss having 3 dogs, and wouldn’t think twice about once again adding a 3rd one to the mix. I should mention too that we have a 2 year old and are expecting another — we will always be cautious of the babies and pups together, and I’m sure when that time comes, you will be too 🙂 Best of luck with your decision, Wayne Rooney is PRECIOUS!

  • April January 23, 2011, 8:32 pm

    I have three and they are great. All of mine are big, so they are quite pricey, but they are so worth it. I did it the opposite way – had one, then got 2 puppy boys when the “only dog” girl was 4. She ignored them for the first year of their lives, but they get along really well now. My only word of caution is on the ability to run in the heat and for long distance, depending on the breed. All three of mine are supposed to be chocolate labs, but the one is clearly a mix with a pointer and he is the only one that can run long distances and doesn’t mind the heat or cold. The other 2 are HORRIBLE running companions – they prefer chasing butterflies and rolling around in the dirt….

    Anyway, I don’t think 3 is a crowd. Maybe take Maggie and James to meet the potential new dog before you take him home? I’ve heard that can help make a decision too. I wish you guys the best!!

  • Faith @ lovelyascharged January 23, 2011, 8:32 pm

    I already commented, but this thought just dawned on me…I’m looking into getting a puppy myself within a few months, but I definitely want to make sure I can afford the proper care. How much would you say your dog-related expenses are each month?

  • Kate @ Walking in the Rain January 23, 2011, 8:33 pm

    My best friend has a smaller house than you and has three dogs–its crowded but totally doable.

    It sounds to me like you have already made up your mind and love Wayne Rooney.

    However, I wouldn’t make a decision until you introduce Maggie and James to the contenders. That way you can see how they all interact and can adopt the puppy that will cause the least amount of disruption to the home.

  • Larissa January 23, 2011, 8:42 pm

    oh my gosh sooo cute! i say go for it, especially since it seems your other dogs cant walk to far ( i forget which one!) how exciting!!!

  • Krista @ Can't Survive on Yarn Alone January 23, 2011, 8:42 pm

    I look forward to seeing how the three interact. Maybe the new pup will motivate Maggie to move more!

  • Lily @ Lily's Health Pad January 23, 2011, 8:44 pm

    I have no input as one naughty, naughty, naughty cat is enough for me to handle…however, that dog is HANDSOME!

  • bitt January 23, 2011, 8:45 pm

    thank you so much for promoting rescue pups on your site. if you have the time, money, and space for three, go for it! i had 2 dogs and 2 cats (now less one cat)and it all works out. 🙂

  • Paige @Running Around Normal January 23, 2011, 8:45 pm

    Oh wow that’s definitely a big decision! I don’t think I could have more than two dogs, but with you working from home, I think you guys could handle it 🙂

  • Katherine @ Left Coast Contessa January 23, 2011, 8:48 pm

    Yes! I think you should totally get a third dog! James and Maggie are small and once your used to the time commitment etc. Plus, you guys are great dog parents 🙂

    As long as they all get along I say go for it. James and Maggie are OK not being only dogs and as long as Mr. Rooney is calm and gets along with other dogs I say go for it!

  • BroccoliHut January 23, 2011, 8:48 pm

    Congrats on the 2 miler! I plan on trying running again for the first in a few weeks due to a hip injury. Wish me luck!
    As for multiple dogs–my parents have two dogs, and each of my sisters has two dogs…which equals 6 dogs at family gatherings! 6 is definitely too many, but between 2-3 is a good number, I think 🙂

  • Laurie January 23, 2011, 8:48 pm

    Aw, those puppies are adorable!!! It would be a hard decision to pick! Thanks for considering these precious doggies at the shelter, you and the husband are awesome! I say go for it! A few months ago, I got a second dachshund and at first my first doxie was so jealous, but he’s fine now! I’m sure it will be an adjustment for Maggie and James, just make sure all the puppers get their individual attention from their Momma and Daddy equally!

  • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 8:50 pm

    Go for it! “Wayne” is very cute! I would warn you though, my roommate in college and I adopted a dog from the pound, and he was nice and quiet and well behaved. But once he got home he was wild! Not in a bad way, just hard to control with the two pugs we were already living with.

    Hope you decide to get him!

  • Maddie (Healthy Maddie) January 23, 2011, 8:54 pm

    I’ve only ever had one dog but if you feel like it right, go for it! He is a very cute puppy 🙂

  • Alyssa January 23, 2011, 8:59 pm

    Get Mr. Wayne Rooney! You guys knew it when you saw him, so I would say go with your gut 🙂 You might regret it if you don’t go through with it. I definitely think Maggie and James would love to have a third pup around 🙂

  • Laura @ First Class Great Outdoors January 23, 2011, 9:01 pm

    We have two dogs and I could never imagine living in a single dog household again. I would love a third, particularly a dachshund, but the hubby says no. But someday…

  • Sarah (Sarah Learns) January 23, 2011, 9:03 pm

    i don’t think three is too many. my fiance lives with two other roommates, and all three of them have a dog. the three dogs all get along really well together. they “fit” in the small house the boys rent. and honestly, 3 isn’t all that much more work than two.

  • Britt January 23, 2011, 9:11 pm

    Oh my, both of those dogs are adorable! I’ll take the german! Is there a hint of chow in the one..? I had a chow chow growing up and she was the calmest, sweetest thing.

  • Emily January 23, 2011, 9:12 pm

    Those puppies are adorable! What’s one more dog in the house? 🙂

  • chelsey @ clean eating chelsey January 23, 2011, 9:13 pm

    I think if you can afford and have the time for it, then go for it! There are so many dogs out there without a home!!!

  • Aimee January 23, 2011, 9:15 pm

    Do you feel at all like your decision to put off having a baby for a few years has influenced your new-found desire for another pet? Not that both (baby/puppy) aren’t great in their own right, but reading your comments kind of made me think that maybe since you and hubby have chosen to remain childfree for another 3ish years, you’re trying to “fill the void”, so to speak, until mommyhood with additional fur-mommyhood. If I’m off-base, feel free to disregard. But if something rings true, I would recommend really analyzing the decision. While 3 dogs might be fun & manageable as a dual-income, no kids couple, I can easily see things getting problematic once a child is introduced into the equation.
    How old are James & Maggie, anyway? Smaller dogs generally live longer. If you adopt another, you could reasonably have 3 dogs for the next 10+ years (plus however many children)… that just seems like a lot to take on, especially in light of the fact that children will always (justifiably so) get the greater share of attention, time & affection if it comes down to choosing. And I’d hate to think of any pups not getting their well-owed loving care just because their owners’ lives grew more busy when kiddos came around.

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 9:43 pm

      Naw we’ve been talking about a third dog for yearrrrs. I’m not the kind of person that thinks of animals as replaceable.

  • Jenna @Eating Green, Staying Lean January 23, 2011, 9:16 pm

    If that little pup is part golden retriever then I vote YES, please please get him! I grew up with two golden retrievers and they are the best dogs in the entire world. Very energetic (good for running around), but also great for when you need some snuggle time. Yay, I’m so excited for you two! As Sarah said above, having three isn’t too much more work than having two.

  • Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat January 23, 2011, 9:16 pm

    OMG SOOOOOO cute!! I think I’d go for the German Shepherd in a heartbeat! I don’t have any pets right now but grew up with dogs and I really miss having one around!

  • Krista @ Journey to a Healthy Berg January 23, 2011, 9:19 pm

    OMG THOSE PUPPIES ARE SO CUTE!! a third one would definately be a good plan, and I think that either of those pups would be a good choice 🙂

  • 'Dee January 23, 2011, 9:22 pm

    Oh Lord, I am never going to be the reader who tries to talk you out of adopting another dog … whether it be the third or the thirtieth 🙂 I would have as many as would get along with each other.

    I just lost my own adopted girl and I have to tell you — those pictures really made me smile. Awwww.

  • Deva (Voracious Vorilee) January 23, 2011, 9:29 pm

    I think both puppies are adorable, but I melted at the sight of your Husband with Lilly – so cute!

  • Marie January 23, 2011, 9:33 pm

    DO IT

  • carin January 23, 2011, 9:35 pm

    i’ve never commented, but read your blog for a long time. i say GO FOR IT!!! I LOOOOOVE animals and i think that three isn’t too many. but yeah, careful about getting a shedding dog. that’s a pain in the arse..

  • Baking 'n' Books January 23, 2011, 9:37 pm

    Oh that’s a GOOD #3!! I was afraid that 2 good things happened and the 3rd one was bad 😉

    THEY ARE GORGEOUS! Gosh, I can’t contribute anything not said already – and I have no pets and would die just for a kitten – but am trying to save every penny I can…so it’s not realistic…but if you have the time, money and love – I’d go for it!!! After all – if it really, really doesn’t work out – I’m sure there’ll be another awesome family out there to care for him or her.

    I was wondering actually – you guys are so busy, working every day, with your writing, blogging, freelancing, book, the clinic, etc…how much time do you actually have for yourself where your not working or worrying about it? I often wonder myself about if I should just be working my butt off every minute or what…I don’t know, I feel so consumed by worry and anxiety over money first and foremost.

    Have a good night!

    • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 9:44 pm

      I guess I feel I have to time for myself in writing and exercise… they are ‘chores’ to some but fun time to me.

  • Claire January 23, 2011, 9:38 pm

    We also had two dogs with a perfect dynamic too and we decided to get another puppy in the fall of 2009 (1st dog in 2003 and second dog in 2005). That Wayne is soooo cute, which is what happened to us with our third…we couldn’t pass up this cute puppy. It has really been great…a new challenge with traveling plans and certainly an added expense, but I would say if finances aren’t a concern it could be really great! We love our little pack and couldn’t imagine it without any of the three of them now 🙂 By the way, I definitely agree with one of the comments above with respect to introducing the new pup to your other two before deciding. Good luck and enjoy!

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin January 23, 2011, 9:40 pm

    Three dogs would be a handful, but if you think you can do it, then I say go for it! Both of those dogs are so adorable!

  • Katherine January 23, 2011, 9:42 pm

    I love being able to run with my 70 lbs. shepherd mix! Sounds like you’re in love with Wayne, but having a 1/2 german shepherd….that Lily would steal my heart! Three’s not a crowd! Go for it!

  • Sally January 23, 2011, 9:45 pm

    We added a 3rd dog to our home last year (a male puppy) and it has been great. I was nervous, too, because I had done 2 dogs but never 3 dogs at once. It definitely is different but so wonderful. You definitely feel like you have a pack and I have felt even more connected to not only the first 2 but also the third pup. The puppy always had someone to play with because of the 2 adult dogs in the home, which meant that there was less destructive behavior typical of a puppy. Also, he had the 2 older dogs to look up to and learn from.

    My heart breaks for the German Shephard pup 🙁

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) January 23, 2011, 9:46 pm

    Awwwwwwe what a sweet little guy!!! I can see why he stole your heart 🙂 If you think you can handle a third pup, I say DO IT!!!!

  • Sally January 23, 2011, 9:46 pm

    Btw, my female is named Maggie!!

  • Leslie January 23, 2011, 9:47 pm

    so cute! go for it! I have 2 male rescues rescued at different times and they are besties! I have wanted three but I also have 2 cat rescues, and 2 kids and 950 sq feet. The only thing about big dogs is big dogs = big poo!

  • Ashley K January 23, 2011, 9:48 pm

    Oh my goodness do it! I always take my pretty girl (also named Maggie) every time I run!

    If you have the time, money, etc there is no reason not to!

  • Rika January 23, 2011, 9:53 pm

    Caitlin, you’re so sweet! I just love love your innocent blog posts about humanitarian dilemmas and tactics!!:D I personally wouldn’t be able to handle 3 doggies (2 hyper pups are already enough!) but I believe in you!!

  • Caitlin January 23, 2011, 9:57 pm

    YES YES YES!!! GET WAYNE ROONEY!!! SOOOO CUTE! Three’s never a crowd! Three’s Company obv!

  • maria @ Chasing the Now January 23, 2011, 10:06 pm

    I’d go for it. The other two dogs get along fine and if you introduce the third as a youngin’ and help keep the dynamic good in the house it will work fine, I think.

    The only question I had is will there be room for an eventual 50-pound dog and two others to comfortably live in your home?

  • Alexia @ Dimple Snatcher January 23, 2011, 10:18 pm

    I’m excited for you! Do you imagine that you’d have more than three dogs?

  • Gretchen (Honey, I Shrunk the Gretchen!) January 23, 2011, 10:53 pm

    I have two miniature schnauzers, and I love them to absolute pieces. I often fantasize about getting another pup, just because I love dogs so much! I am definitely of the mindset that three is absolutely not too many, but I have to agree with a lot of the commenters here about the financial burden it could add – that’s my main hangup about getting a third. I remember that you were blogging about budgets and saving money a while ago, and between neutering ($100 – $300 easily!), shots, check-ups, and food (I’m a crazy dog lady, so I feed my pupsters expensive food from a speciality store… they eat far more balanced diets than I do!) it just can all add up.

    So my bottom line is, yes, I do think that you should get a third dog as long as you’re really prepared for the effect that literally having “another mouth to feed” will have. I highly doubt Maggie & James would have an issue integrating a new dog anyway, especially a puppy! Let us know how it turns out!! 🙂

  • LIz January 23, 2011, 11:14 pm

    I say go for it! Either dog needs a happy home and if you have the time, money and love to give, then do it!

  • Krista (kristastes) January 23, 2011, 11:25 pm

    Doooo it 🙂 Dogs love to be in a pack! I have an English lab and I want a 2nd one…but not until I move out of my 500 sq ft apartment ha.

  • Teri @BeePie Runs January 23, 2011, 11:28 pm

    Whew, you’ve got some opinionated comments here! And quite a big decision. We’re about to be outnumbered in the kid department, so go for it with the doggies – should be fun 🙂
    And check out the pics I posted of Greta (she’s James’ twin)
    http://beepieruns.blogspot.com/2011/01/its-dogs-world.html

  • Maggie January 23, 2011, 11:32 pm

    The really fun part of me that loves dogs wants to tell me to tell you to do it. But my parents added a third dog to their happy two-dog home this past summer and it was a disaster. They’ve rescued several Greyhounds (which are great dogs and I HIGHLY recommend adopting one to anyone who wants a dog) and never had any issues, but the one they got this past summer, while a really nice, friendly, calm, well-behaved dog, one day went crazy and attacked their Bichon-mix. The Bichon was ok after a trip to the doggy ER, many, many stitches, and 3 drainage tubes (not to mention tons of $$$).

    I know it’s a really, really, really off-chance that it can go wrong (especially this wrong), but sometimes it can be better to leave things the way they are.

    That said, both of those dogs are adorable and I would happy to have either in my home 🙂

  • Becky January 23, 2011, 11:34 pm

    Might be worth checking the pet zoning laws (and landlord’s policy if you have one) before going ahead – I recently found out that in Madison, WI (where I live) there are restrictions on how many dogs/cats you can have without having “special permission” of some kind. That said, my parents had 3 dogs until recently (one – a cavalier king charles – was old and had to be put down, the other two are 2-yr old brother and sister goldendoodles) and it was only difficult when it came to walking them all at once (probably not an issue for you) or when more dogs were visiting (like mine, haha – 4 dogs is definitely a party). Would your mom be willing to take care of all 3 animals if you are traveling? Pet care is one of my main concerns when I think of adding an animal, even though I’m not away very often. Best of luck figuring it all out – whatever choice you make will be the right one for you at this point!

  • Cheryl H. January 23, 2011, 11:59 pm

    Oh Caitlin,

    I say love as many as you can…..I currently have 3 kitties and 1 dog. Two of my kitties are rescue…one barn cat and one adopted us by showing up in the garage in the dog food bin because she was starving. The best move I ever made…love my animals. My children are older; one has moved out to be closer to college and all of the “action” so with that we are out numbered animals to people and love every moment of it all. Your life will be richer for it so I say go for it.

    I think introducing a puppy is easier than introducing a new adult dog.

  • Stephanie@Thorns Have Roses January 24, 2011, 12:15 am

    If you can handle the extra responsibilities and costs I say go for it. Animals deserve loving *humans* 🙂

  • Blaire January 24, 2011, 12:54 am

    I say -Absolutely Go For it ! You are doing a wonderful thing ! Plus a big dog is a perfect running companion!

  • Kristine January 24, 2011, 2:10 am

    Rooney!!!!! I love the name, I love the pup! Go for it. 🙂 He is absolutely adorable!

  • Crystal January 24, 2011, 6:47 am

    I think you should go for it! I really feel that after two- another one is a piece of cake.. I currently have two boys and I’m looking for a little lady to join our pack- dogs are pack animals and although they consider us humans part of their pack.. the more fury friends they have the better! Good luck with the little guy!

  • Lindsay J January 24, 2011, 7:50 am

    We’re a dachshund family and added a third one almost two years ago. Having three has been fun. I say I wouldn’t do four only because I don’t want to give them any less attentino than they already get. They’re our babies and love cuddle time… I like having three.

  • Whitney January 24, 2011, 8:20 am

    OH my.. I’m guessing your husband is a Manchester United fan! My fiance is fanatic and named his cat Rooney after Wayne Rooney…obsessed much?! haha On a different note, going to the pound makes me so sad.. it really blows my mind how people can be so cruel to innocent animals. 🙁 Good luck with your decision! 🙂

  • kimberley January 24, 2011, 8:43 am

    I am so excited for you guys! You can never have too much puppy love and I’m so happy you are promoting adoption from the pound.
    I know you are thinking about buying a house soon, but one thing to consider is that often landlords include chows/chow mixes on their “restricted breeds” list. That may not be relevant to you, but figured I would mention it.
    Until the pupster is a grown up, you can always borrow my greyhound/foxhound mix for a speed work partner – she’s way too fast for me to run with!

  • Laura @ Starting Out Fit January 24, 2011, 8:53 am

    Not sure if you’ll see this comment, but I’ll give it a shot! 🙂
    That pup is absolutely adorable and fi you think you can do it, I say go for it! I’m all about rescuing from the pound. The only thing (not sure if someone mentioned) is you won’t be able to run with him for a while.
    My mom got a golden pup almost 2 years ago – I was dying to take him out running with me last summer, just after he turned a year, and the breeders + vet recommended that we wait until after he turned 2 so that he could have time to develop properly. I guess running with a big dog at a young age (when they’re still developing) is a risk incase they get hurt and in turn don’t develop properly. With all the problems that can occur in large dogs with hips and such, you want them to be able to develop before putting them to work hard. … My parents golden turns 2 this spring and I think I’m finally going to be allowed to start taking him out on small runs. 🙂
    Good luck with your decision! That pup is a gem. 😉

    • Caitlin January 24, 2011, 8:54 am

      Do you know if they said to wait because of his specific breed? I’ve always heard 1 was the running age.

      • Laura @ Starting Out Fit January 24, 2011, 9:03 am

        I don’t think it’s just goldens, but more for all the larger breeds – goldens, labs, shephards, etc. – all the ones you hear about in reference to hip displaysia and such. I’ve seen dog have those hip issues at such young ages and IMO it’s just not worth the risk. Talk to your vet and do some research though. Maybe the Chow in him might not be as prone to those issues? 🙂

        • Laura @ Starting Out Fit January 24, 2011, 9:04 am

          …forgot to add – Charlie (my parents’ golden) is almost 2 and I swear the bugger is STILL growing!!!

  • Nathalie January 24, 2011, 8:55 am

    I think it’s wonderful that you’re thinking of adopting another dog from a shelter- I am sure you have both thought through every detail of it thoroughly, and will make the right decison! I love that you have also checked with your mom if she would be ok looking after three. I’d go for it. I have two at the moment but I am sure we’ll add to the pack in the future.
    Don’t be put off by the bad press about Chows. Especially as Wayne is still a pup; with the right guidance I am sure he’ll turn out well! All the ‘wolf spitz/nordic breed-type’ dogs are known to be independent thinkers and can be aloof with strangers. They are extemely loyal to their own family. It all makes sense though when you look back into their history and original purposes.
    For this reason I think they can be more headstrong than other dogs, which some people then label as stubborn or hard to train. I personally don;t buy into that. I have two rescued Jap. Akitas and they looove their training!
    Having said all that though…with Lab/Golden thrown into the mix you may get less of the ‘typical’ Chow traits.
    The only thing I can assure you of is that there will be shedding. Lots of it. There will be hair everywhere. I vacuum daily, brush both dogs every other day when they’re changing coats (1-2/week otherwise) and there’s still fluff about. I have pretty much eliminated all black clothing from my wardrobe 😉 But I wouldn’t have it any other way!
    Oh, and just be aware that there may be a chance that Little Wayne may not be all that athletic when he grows up (and that he may grow bigger than 50lbs), so maybe Young Lily would be a better fit for the running purpose? (You say that Wayne is calmer though, which I am sure would be appreciated by Maggie and James) My girl is about 65lbs and super athletic and light footed, she is the best running buddy ever!And she loooves it! The boy not so much though, he’s more the sprinter type than long distance (he’s about 110lbs); and I always worry that they could overheat because of their super thick coats so I run super early in the summer and mainly with the girl.
    Oops, sorry…I knew I wouldn’t be able to keep this short 🙂 I am excited for you- I look forward to reading more 🙂 Btw, the picture of Little Wayne with your husband is the best!

  • Jen January 24, 2011, 9:03 am

    I have a golden retriever, and I don’t know if it’s just her or if it’s characteristic of the breed, but she’s a big “talker.” She makes all sorts of noises, which I think is hilarious and I love that she’s unusually spunky and feisty for the breed, but I’ve also heard that chows can be noisy too, so you might have a loud one on your hands haha.

  • Diana @ frontyardfoodie January 24, 2011, 9:08 am

    Aww, so adorable. There’s nothing quite as cute as a puppy.

    I could never handle three dogs! One is definitely enough for me! Also, once I had my baby a few months ago it totally changed our dynamic so I’m glad we don’t have more than one.

  • Paula January 24, 2011, 9:19 am

    I apologize in advance, I haven’t had a chance to read all the comments. But, we have 4 dogs and honestly the biggest transition was going from one to two. Two to three was a piece of cake. I truly believe that if you are prepared time-wise and financially, a third dog would be fine, if Maggie and James agree.

    However, I would like to put my vote in for a young adult vs. a puppy, for several reasons. A puppy is a crap shoot, basically. They all start out cute and fuzzy, but you won’t know what you’re getting in the long run, both physically and temperamentally. If you get a dog who is not a young pup, say, between 8 months to 1.5 years, you’ll already be able to tell how big he’ll end up, whether he’s built to be a running partner, how his personality is, and how he is with people and other dogs. He’s a known quantity vs. the unknown. I’d just hate to see you end up with a puppy, and then after a year when you want to really start putting running miles on him, find out the dog isn’t capable. I know you’d still love him, but a running partner is what you’re looking for, right?

    Plus, the puppy-wuppies usually have no problem getting adopted, while a bit older dog might not have as good of a chance. 🙁

    Best wishes with whatever you decide!

  • Paula January 24, 2011, 9:21 am

    Oh, and PS. an older dog will be able to start running sooner, you don’t want to do any kind of serious running with a puppy until their bones are done growing (growth plates closed).

  • kristin January 24, 2011, 12:32 pm

    awww he is so cute 🙂

  • Stefanie January 24, 2011, 12:48 pm

    That is awesome. We have 2 dogs and it is great.

    But just FYI-our first pup was calm and submissive at the pound. Because she was scared. When she got home…OH BOY..total opposite. So just keep that in mind…probably not that calm when he is all accustomed to new settings. We learned that quick.

    Our second dog was a 8 month old and sooooo much easier than a puppy..so look at older dogs too. Plus usually alread house trained too.

    Good luck on what you decide. so glad you guys are helping out another furry friend in need!

  • Allison @ Happy Tales January 24, 2011, 4:07 pm

    So I have no idea if you’ve already checked it out…but you should look at the Charlotte Humane Society. They take in dogs from the Clt police animal control that would otherwise be euthanized (so, essentially, they save from the kill shelter) and they have tons of pups who are the size you are wanting! We’ve been a few times and they always have boxer mixes, lab mixes…as well as mixes of everything. I know I’ve said it before, but I really think you should give the Humane Society a chance (in addition to all of the other ones, of course)!

  • Danielle January 24, 2011, 4:14 pm

    OMG! He is the sweetest little puppy! SO adorable!

  • Bridget January 24, 2011, 6:40 pm

    DO IT!!! We got our first dog at the end of Sept, adopted from a rescue and I am SO happy we did. Our little guy means everything to me and I can’t wait to adopt another!!

  • Sarah January 24, 2011, 9:59 pm

    omgosh they are both SO SO CUTE!!! I have 3 dogs, all rescued! 2 big guys (60 and 80 lbs) and a little baby 15 lbs… its a perfect mix!
    THREE IS NOT A CROWD!! GO FOR IT, it really wasnt a big change going from 2 to 3!

  • Ffion @ Chocolate and Raspberiies January 26, 2011, 8:50 pm

    That puppy’s waaaay better looking than Rooney!

  • Mel January 29, 2011, 9:09 pm

    OMG we have the same West Elm couch! I’d love to see a full picture of how you styled it. 🙂

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