UNDERSTANDING LITTERMATE SYNDROME

We frequently get requests to purchase two puppies from the same litter as families like the idea of their dog having a playmate and being raised with a sibling / littermate. Many people also (mistakingly) think raising two puppies at the same time will be easier than just having one. While it sounds enticing, we want to make sure that prospective owners are familiar with a very real issue labeled "littermate syndrome" before making the decision to purchase two pups. 

Littermate syndrome refers to a condition that can occur when two puppies from the same litter are raised together in the same household. It is characterized by an unusually strong bond between the littermates, which can lead to behavioral and developmental issues if not properly managed.

When two puppies are raised together, they may become overly dependent on each other and have difficulty forming strong bonds with humans. They may exhibit separation anxiety when separated, struggle with socialization and training, and have difficulty adapting to new environments or experiences outside of their sibling relationship.

Littermate syndrome can manifest in various ways, such as increased aggression or fearfulness towards other dogs or people, difficulty focusing on individual training, and an overall lack of independence. The strong bond between the littermates can prevent them from fully developing their own identities and learning important social skills.
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When our prospective families ask to purchase littermates, we discourage but we don't refuse. Instead, we educate families on how to mitigate littermate syndrome, Taking proactive measures from the beginning can help eliminate the issues. Here are some strategies to help:

1. Separate their living spaces: Provide separate sleeping areas and crates for each puppy to promote individuality and prevent excessive dependence on one another. This helps them develop independence and reduces the likelihood of separation anxiety.

2. Individual attention and training: Spend quality time individually with each puppy. Engage in separate training sessions, playtime, and walks to establish a bond with each dog. This helps them develop their own relationship with humans and build confidence outside of their sibling dynamic.

3. Socialization with other dogs and people: Expose each puppy to a variety of social situations, different dogs, and new people. This helps them learn how to interact with others, build their social skills, and become well-rounded dogs.

4. Separate training sessions: Train each puppy separately to ensure they learn to respond to commands individually and focus on their own training. This prevents them from relying solely on each other for cues and commands.

5. Independent experiences: Allow each puppy to have separate experiences outside of their sibling relationship. Take them on individual outings, introduce them to new environments, and expose them to different stimuli to build their confidence and adaptability.

6. Gradual separations: Gradually increase the time spent apart from each other. Start with short separations and gradually extend the duration. This helps them learn that being alone is not a cause for distress and reduces separation anxiety.

7. Seek professional guidance: Consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist who has experience with littermate syndrome. They can provide personalized advice and guidance to help you navigate through the challenges and create an effective training plan.

Remember that preventing littermate syndrome requires consistent effort and dedication. Providing individual attention, training, and socialization opportunities will go a long way in ensuring that your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies develop into well-adjusted, independent dogs.

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