Some feel it is more interesting having more than one to watch or play with. Others add additional cats as company for the cat, although this is probably not necessary given the solitary background and the flexibility of cats in living alone. Problems with house soiling or urine spraying are reduced for those who live with only one cat. To some degree, the people who enjoy the most vigorous interactions will generally select a dog rather than a cat. With this species, people have the greatest opportunity to match their behavioral expectations by choosing a particular breed and gender.
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, representing a huge range of behaviors and appearances.
Their evolutionary ancestors were social, and most dogs prefer social partners. Once a particular breed and gender has been identified, selecting a dog from genetic lines with the desired behavioral profile can increase your compatibility with the dog. If choosing a dog from a shelter, take every opportunity to learn as much as possible concerning any behavioral problems the dog may have. Dogs usually require a greater commitment of time and resources than cats, birds, rabbits, or pocket-pets. Participating in obedience classes with a dog seems to enhance lifelong compatibility, probably by shaping the behavior to be more conducive to living with humans.