Understanding Littermate Syndrome: What Dog Owners Need to Know

If you've ever adopted two puppies from the same litter, you may have been told about a phenomenon called "littermate syndrome." This term refers to a collection of behavioral issues that can arise when two puppies, often from the same litter, are raised together. While it’s common for people to think that raising two pups at the same time will lead to companionship and easier training, it can sometimes lead to problems that are difficult to overcome without proper guidance.

In this blog post, we'll dive into the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies for littermate syndrome, backed by reputable sources in the field of dog behavior.

What Is Littermate Syndrome?

Littermate syndrome is not a formal diagnosis but a behavioral pattern. It typically manifests as severe attachment between the two puppies and anxiety or behavioral issues when separated. Symptoms can range from increased fearfulness and aggression toward other dogs and humans to difficulty in training and socialization.

According to professional dog trainer Patricia McConnell, PhD, CPDT-KA, littermate syndrome can result in "hyper-bonding" between the two puppies, where they rely on each other to an unhealthy extent, making it harder for them to bond with humans or develop independence . When the dogs are separated, even briefly, they might experience significant distress, which can result in anxiety or destructive behaviors.

Common Symptoms of Littermate Syndrome

Over-attachment to each other: The puppies may become excessively reliant on each other, making it difficult for them to function independently.
Separation anxiety: Being apart for even short periods can lead to extreme stress and anxiety in one or both dogs.
Fearfulness around people and other dogs: Puppies may show signs of fear or aggression toward other animals and humans due to their limited socialization outside their littermate bond.
Delayed social development: Raising two puppies together can stunt their social and emotional development, as they primarily engage with each other rather than learning how to navigate the world around them.
Difficulty in training: Training can become much harder, as the puppies may be more interested in playing or interacting with each other than in paying attention to their owner.

How to Prevent Littermate Syndrome

If you’re considering adopting two puppies at the same time, here are some steps you can take to prevent littermate syndrome:

Separate training sessions: While raising two puppies together, it's essential to train them separately so they can learn to focus on you rather than just each other. This will also help them develop independent skills and foster a healthy bond with you.
Separate bonding time: Spend individual time with each puppy, so they learn to rely on and trust humans rather than exclusively bonding with each other.
Crate training: Crate training the puppies separately can help reduce separation anxiety and encourage independence. While they may sleep in crates in the same room, having their own space is key to minimizing hyper-bonding.
Socialization with other dogs and people: It's crucial to expose both puppies to new experiences, people, and other dogs separately so they can grow confident and independent without relying on their sibling.
Hire a professional trainer: If you’re unsure how to navigate raising two puppies at once, working with a professional dog trainer can be an invaluable investment. Trainers can help you identify signs of littermate syndrome early and provide strategies for preventing or mitigating the issue .

Should You Adopt Two Puppies Together?

While it might seem like a good idea to adopt two puppies for companionship, many experts, including those at the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB), advise against it. Raising one puppy at a time allows you to focus on socialization, training, and bonding with the dog in a way that’s difficult to achieve with two. If you’re set on getting two dogs, it's often better to stagger the adoptions, waiting a few months or even a year between them to ensure proper training and development for each.

Conclusion

Littermate syndrome can be a serious challenge for dog owners, but it’s not inevitable. By understanding the potential issues and taking proactive steps to foster independence, you can raise two well-adjusted, happy dogs. If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to consult a professional trainer or behaviorist, who can help you tailor a training plan to prevent littermate syndrome.

For those still considering adopting two puppies at once, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons and ensure you have the time, resources, and knowledge to handle the extra responsibility.

Sources:

Patricia McConnell, PhD, CPDT-KA, The Other End of the Leash.
AVSAB (American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior).
American Kennel Club (AKC), "What is Littermate Syndrome?"

By following these guidelines and taking the necessary precautions, you can avoid the complications that come with littermate syndrome and enjoy a happy, balanced relationship with your dogs.