Littermate Syndrome is a topic that’s crucial for anyone considering adding two puppies to their family to be aware of. This phenomenon can present challenges, but with knowledge and compassion, you can navigate it with ease.
What is Littermate Syndrome?
Littermate syndrome is not an illness, rather a set of behavioural problems that can occur when two pups of the same or similar age are brought into a family simultaneously. They do not need to be littermates, despite the title.
When two puppies from the same litter or similar ages grow up together, they can develop an unusually strong bond. This might sound adorable, but it can lead to several issues.
These include, but are not limited to:
- difficulty in learning alone,
- high levels of anxiety when separated,
- struggling to switch off, leading to lots of inappropriate, over-excited play and not enough sleep,
- inability to bond with and focus on their humans,
- one puppy or both may become withdrawn, and struggle with general anxiety
- even aggression towards each other as they vie for resources.
Why It’s a Concern
At the core of the problem lies the puppies’ tendency to become excessively dependent on one another. This dependency can inhibit their ability to interact with humans and other dogs. They may struggle to learn cues, show nervousness without their sibling, and display behavioural problems because of fear or anxiety.
I found this out the hard way, long before I was educated in the ways of the dog. I bought a puppy, and so did my then partner. While my partner was waiting for the puppy to be of an age where he could keep him at his own home, without constant supervision, I allowed him to live at mine.
The two pups were uncontrollable until separated. Otherwise, all they wanted to do was wrestle, which inevitably became fights. Neither would sleep well, or have time to eat properly. It was not the best time!
Once they were living apart, they still saw each other regularly. They were the best of friends. The pressure of living together was gone and so they became more well adjusted.
Navigating Littermate Syndrome with Fun Not Fear®
1. Separate Training And Play Sessions: It’s crucial to teach puppies individually. This approach allows each puppy to focus, learn cues at their own pace and in their own way, and can help them bond more with you. Different walks. Different training sessions in separate places from each other. Time spent without the other puppy while they learn about the outside world.
Puppies taught as a pair can be more interested in what the other puppy is doing, and less in what is being taught or shown to them. This can mean they miss out on vital learning and socialisation.
It won’t always be a case of doing so many things separately. But, up until they reach adulthood as much time apart as possible is beneficial.
Utilise force-free, positive reinforcement methods to make learning enjoyable and stress-free.
2. Individual Socialisation: Ensure each puppy has plenty of opportunities to meet other dogs and humans on a 121 basis. This broadens their social skills and reduces over-dependence on their sibling.
Socialisation should be a positive experience, so always monitor interactions and step in if either puppy becomes overwhelmed.
3. Alone Time: Teaching puppies to be comfortable alone is essential. If one puppy was overly dependent on the other, and the other puppy was suddenly absent (perhaps an emergency vet trip) the first puppy can be inconsolable. Being separated becomes very traumatic.
Start with short periods apart and gradually increase the time. Use positive reinforcement to associate alone time with good things, like tasty treats or favourite toys.
4. Encourage Playing Without The Other Puppy: While it’s fine for puppies to play together, also encourage them to play without each other too. You may even find they have different favourite toys and games to their counterpart.
Offer a variety of toys and enjoy 121 play sessions. This not only helps in reducing co-dependence but also strengthens their individual personalities as they learn more about what things they like and don’t like so much.
5. Professional Help: If you notice signs of littermate syndrome or struggle with any behavioural issues with your pup, seek the advice of a professional dog behaviourist. They can offer tailored advice and support to help your puppies grow into well-adjusted dogs.
The Silver Lining
Raising a pair of pups comes with its challenges. It’s also filled with joy and the unique fun that the shared experiences bring. By understanding and being aware of littermate syndrome, before it becomes an issue, you can help your puppies thrive.
In following the Fun Not Fear® approach, we focus on creating a loving, supportive environment for our dogs. It’s about understanding their needs, respecting their individuality, and guiding them through life with kindness and joy.
For a happy household with floofers, remember time apart, patience, consistency, and a force-free approach. Let’s teach our dogs that the world is full of fun, not fear, one positive experience at a time.