Puppies are simply adorable and so there is always the temptation to take more than one from a litter. You might think that a doggy duo would make your life easier because the dogs can keep each other company. But two pups from the same litter will present you with special challenges.
Littermate Syndrome
Taking on two puppies from the same litter often results in what is known as littermate syndrome. The puppies will be bonded to each other and this will make them less likely to bond to you. The dogs may not listen to you and will be much harder to train. They will rely on each other rather than you for comfort and support and this will result in a variety of behavioural issues.
The pups may not show obedience and will exhibit anxiety when they are separated from each other. The dogs could also become aggressive towards each other, especially if they are both female. They may prove to be abnormally fearful of other dogs and people that they do not know. This fear could also extend to any new objects and situations.
Demanding Double Act
One puppy is hard work, two could be too much for you! You will have double the challenge with potty training and instilling basic manners and obedience. It is important that puppies are socialised by being exposed to other dogs but when you have two pups you may be tempted not to bother. This could lead them to become very distressed when they do eventually encounter other dogs.
Making it Work
If you do take on two pups, then you must ensure that each dog spends plenty of time alone. This applies to time spent outside the house as well as at home. You will have to walk the dogs separately sometimes. It is important that the dogs become individuals and that they bond with you. Keep the dogs in separate cages when they are confined and the cages should not be positioned close to each other. You should play with each dog separately and feed them at different times.
It can also help if friends and family take one of the dogs for the night occasionally so that the pups learn to tolerate being apart. Always take them to puppy classes or conduct training sessions separately so that the dogs focus solely on you whilst they are learning.
In short, everything that you would do with one puppy, you need to do twice and separately. This will place a huge burden on your time so you must be certain that you can cope.
A Better Solution
Even two puppies from different litters could be troublesome for you as they could also bond with each other instead of you. If you really do want two puppies, start with just one and see how you go. If you feel up to it, after spending time with the first little chap, take a second puppy a few weeks later.