Also known as littermate dependency, this term refers to a hypothesis that outlines behaviors which are purported to develop when two puppies from the same litter are raised together. Behaviors include abnormal attachment to each other, unusual levels of difficulty bonding with humans and other animals, unusual aggression, intense separation anxiety, and inexplicably reduced independence in training. It can be a confusing phenomena. Many pet owners who experience littermate syndrome don't realize it is happening, and some even look up the syndrome only to think it doesn't apply to their situation because they ay e experiencing one of the most common issues (aggression between littermates) and think that and the aforementioned "extreme attachment to each other" are mutually exclusive. In reality, the symptoms of this problem can manifest in a variety of troubling ways.
This syndrome occurs with relative frequency when two or more puppies from the same litter are never separated and grow up in the same home; which can be the home they were born into, or it can be the home they are adopted/purchased into. Precautions should be taken to mitigate the development of this potentially deadly issue, and the best prevention is usually
The concept of littermate syndrome is a topic of debate among dog trainers, shelter personnel, breeders, and other animal professionals. However, this syndrome is not recognized by veterinary behaviorists or other leading experts in the field. Instead, the behaviors associated with this “syndrome” are more likely related to the challenges of raising two puppies together.
In general, raising one puppy can be time-consuming. Teaching social skills, housetraining, socialization, management, and training is challenging enough with just one puppy - imagine doing all of this with two. When working with two puppies, it is difficult to ensure that each puppy has their own unique experiences independent of the other.
Socialization
During the socialization period, puppies learn about new things in their environment, the human world, other animals, and so much more. The quality of each new experience is important. Each puppy needs to feel safe and is given ample time to explore and make associations at their own pace in a positive yet controlled manner.
Housetraining
Housetraining is an essential aspect of raising a puppy. It involves teaching puppies to eliminate in designated areas and develop good bathroom habits. With direct supervision, positive reinforcement, frequent opportunities to eliminate, an established routine, and a little patience, most puppies catch on quickly, but not all. Each puppy will be different, and therefore two puppies going through the housetraining process at the same time may be frustrating for all.
Redirecting Less Desirable Behaviors
Puppies will chew, nip, jump, and demonstrate other nuisance behaviors. Redirection is often key, and “puppy proofing” is essential. Enrichment in the form of food-stuffed puzzle toys, adequate exercise, rest periods, and positive reinforcement training can reduce all of these behaviors and help puppies make better choices. Capturing desired behavior helps to build healthy bonds with humans and gives the puppy opportunities to reinforce the behaviors you want to see from your dog. Attempting this with two puppies can lead to missed opportunities or accidental reinforcement of undesirable behaviors.
Training
Training is an important form of learning for both the human and the puppy. This process gives an opportunity for mental enrichment and to teach basic social skills. Behaviors such as “touch”, “come” when called, and how to “settle on a mat” are all important skills for all puppies to learn. Leash manners and learning how to like car rides are equally important. When accomplishing these tasks, working with two puppies will be twice the challenge. Consistency is key, and keep in mind that dogs are smart - they can recognize fairness. Therefore, the WAY you train them is important, and you want to always make sure that you don't create the sense that one is rewarded better than the other.
Is there ever a time when two puppies may be better than one?
Yes. Some puppies raised together may form healthy bonds and develop well-adjusted behaviors. If you do choose to raise two puppies together, provide each puppy with separate training, socialization opportunities, and individual attention to promote their overall well-being and balanced growth.
When it comes to littermate syndrome, many behaviorists feel that it is not so much about a lack of bonding with the family or behavioral problems developing when puppies are siblings. They assert that it is more about the challenges that come from raising two dogs together simultaneously. This may certainly be the case.
Still, many veterinary professionals insist littermate syndrome - while not a recognized behavioral syndrome - is in fact real and not simply a common side effect of raising two or more puppies simultaneously. This is why in the beginning we specified each symptom as, "unusual," "abnormal," or "intense." These behaviors are not generally considered typically presenting. But whether or not this syndrome is a legitimate diagnosis, it is apparent that puppy parents often struggle with an amalgamation of severe and ongoing behavioral issues and that much of it can be prevented by simply bringing home one puppy instead of two, or by keeping one from the litter instead of multiple. We strongly advise to proceed with caution if you are considering raising two or more puppies simultaneously. And if you do decide to do it, make sure your family members are on the same page and can help you avoid the common hurdles associated with having multiple puppies. Raising multiple puppies CAN be done, and with great success, it just presents a particular set of challenges that you need to be ready for.
Comments