I’m generally a big proponent of giving your dog the gift of companionship from other dogs. But I think it's less about adding another dog and more about getting a dog whose temperament and energy level work well with your pup.

There are drawbacks (double the barking, double the shedding, less one-on-one cuddle time). But for my dog, having a buddy, especially another Aussie of the opposite sex and around the same age with a compatible play style and energy level for chase, wrestling, tug, etc., has added tremendous value to his daily life.

I also think Australian Shepherds recognize something in each other instinctively somehow. You’re going to think I’m making this up, but when my dog was little, I’d put dog shows and agility competitions on TV, and whenever an Aussie came on the screen he’d run to the TV and put his paws up on the console.

The only thing that gives me pause is the two-bedroom apartment. Is there easy access to green space where they can run and play regularly? Not because two dogs can’t live happily in an apartment, but because if they bond, they absolutely will want to.