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We have had many people ask to get two puppies at the same time, and we
always ask that you research the disadvantages of this first, and then
we'll talk about your situation.
Probability #1 to consider: Puppies that grow up with a
littermate bond less with their people than a puppy raised by itself, or
with an older/existing dog.
Probability #2 to consider: Potty training two puppies at once
is VERY challenging.
Possibility #3: Littermate Syndrome (not just
for littermates, but referring to raising two similar-age puppies
together)
With that said, there are certain situations that we think are
"possibly" OK for two puppies to go to the same home. Overcoming
the potty training challenge is easier if there is a doggie door installed
in the room that the puppies will be confined to in the early days. The
bonding-with-humans challenge is a little harder to overcome, but
depending upon your situation, this might not be a problem.
But regarding the "littermate syndrome" part... raising two puppies of
similar ages together can actually lead to dog fights, extreme
separation anxiety, and amplified bad behaviors. I think it's worse in
other breeds, because beagles are so rarely aggressive. But, is it worth
taking the chance?
I don't necessarily like the sarcasm/tone of some of the opinion pages
I have found on the topic, but their points are
sure something to think about:
Littermate Syndrome - WSHS (wshs-dg.org)
http://www.whole-dog-journal.com/issues/13_1/features/Problems-Adopting-Two-Puppies-At-Once_16190-1.html
https://www.doglistener.co.uk/choosing/sibling-litter-puppies.shtml
http://blog.betternaturedogtraining.com/2013/07/18/littermate-syndrome/
http://www.patriciamcconnell.com/theotherendoftheleash/adopting-littermates-dont
Video with safety warnings and tips:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_RDIS9yoVo
by How to Train a Dream Dog
In actuality, we have raised siblings together, and I feel that they DO
bond with each other more and with people less, regardless of the amount
of time spent with them (because it's so easy to just let them play
together when we are busy).
My own opinion is that unless there's a really valid reason for getting
two at once that isn't covered in the articles, it isn't the best option
for the puppies if they are going to the same home. I'd recommend
raising one puppy until it is well behaved and well trained, so it can
show a new puppy good behaviors....a minimum of 6 months between getting
the two puppies (and a year might be even better).
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