01/16/2025
You go to pick up a puppy from a litter and thereâs a second one still waiting for a home. They look so cute together! âWe can afford the extra vet bills and food costs, whatâs the harm in bringing home two?â you ask.
Littermate syndrome, something that can happen when bringing home sibling dogs from the same litter. While it might seem like a great idea to get two puppies at once, raising littermates can lead to significant behavioral challenges.
Dogs from the same litter often form an extremely strong bond with each other, which can make them overly dependent and lead to issues with separation anxiety, poor socialization with other dogs, and even aggression toward each other as they grow
older.
Raising two puppies at the same time means double the work-each dog will need individual training, socialization, and time apart to develop into confident, well-adjusted adults. If they spend too much time together without this individualized attention, they may struggle to learn how to cope independently, which can lead to anxiety and behavioral issues.
This can be overwhelming for even the most dedicated dog owners.
For those of you with siblings, imagine if your brother or sister was your main reference point for learning how to treat others and behave in social situations. Youâd have a rude awakening when you went out in public!
Similarly, dogs with littermate syndrome can present as socially awkward or inappropriate to other dogs when they expect that dog to play, act, or react like a sibling would.
If youâre thinking about getting two dogs, itâs often best to stagger the adoption, giving each dog the time and space to develop its own identity and independence.
Raising dogs with the proper training and socialization can set them up for long-term success, but it requires careful planning and commitment.
Always consult a professional trainer to help guide you through the process if you decide to raise siblings!
