Over the years we have seen a number of sibling puppies attend our classes.
In theory, to inexperienced dog owners, it can seem like a great idea having 2 puppies at the same time. Company for each other. It gets the puppy stage over and done with in one hit.
However, what they don’t realise is it can actually be very difficult for puppies to live in the same household.
A number of problems can arise and we have listed these below. They are definitely points that need to be considered before you commit to having more than one puppy from the same litter.
If you get 2 puppies at a similar time from different breeders they can still develop some similar issues.
- The puppies can struggle to create a good relationship with the owners as their bond with their sibling is very strong
- The cost. You will need 2 of everything.
- The puppies can fight. Not just play fighting. They can have serious scraps and blood can sometimes be shed. Injuries can be extensive. It doesn’t always make a difference if you have 2 pups of the same sex or one of each. They can still fight.
- The puppies can develop separation anxiety from each other
- You will have to work with the puppies separately to help them to develop a bond with you and for them to be comfortable being on their own
- It can be very stressful for the puppies being separated if this isn’t done early on
- They should have separate crates to sleep in
- If you realise further down the line that you are unable to keep both puppies for whatever reason you will need to choose which one stays and which one is re-homed. This can be traumatic for you. It will probably be the best decision for the puppy.
- It has been known that when a sibling dies the other one can die of a broken heart if they have never been apart.
Rather than getting 2 puppies from the same litter why not enjoy having the first puppy on it’s own and then a year or two later look into getting a puppy from the same breeder.
You may even decide by then that one dog is enough or you may even want a different breed.
A good breeder will choose the owners that they want for their puppies. They will interview you and check your suitability.
It is very rare for a reputable breeder to sell sibling puppies. They may do this in special circumstances but only after they have been assured that the person/people buying the 2 puppies will be able to cope.
Make the most of the time that your puppy is a puppy for and enjoy it. It is hard work. Be prepared for sleepless nights. It will all be worth it for the life that you will have with your new companion.
You will probably find that with time and experience you may do things a little different for the next puppy that you bring into your home.
It is really rewarding watching your puppy progress through their training journey to become an adult dog.
