Cocker Spaniel Litter mates

[Kevin Simpson]

Hi Folks

We have acquired a new cocker spaniel boy (show not working) who is 9 weeks old and adorable. He has a lovely sister who we are also very tempted by. My partner and I do not live together full-time - we are together weekends and one evening through the week. We have read about problems bringing litter mates up together but we are wondering if bringing them up together part-time, as per our llving arrangements, would pose the same risks? It is likely in the longer term we/they will be living together 100% of the time. Also if brother and sister may be a positive factor? Any comments greatly appreciated.

Thank you

Kevin

 

[Tinytom]

I have 2 half brothers but there is 4 months between them ...you would have to consider that your female will come into heat and you will have to keep them completely separate for a few months .....I would think long and hard about getting siblings ...would you consider getting another male pup from another breeder ...

 

[JoanneF]

Littermate syndrome is a real thing, living apart would make it easier - although the issues that @Tinytom highlighted are significant.

 

[excuseme]

It may also be more sensible to wait for the first puppy to grow up a little before you consider another puppy. And maybe 2 of the same sex would be more sensible.

We have 2 x 5 year old Cocker girls that we kept from a home bred litter (working type)
They have grown up together without any problems.

We are retired and have plenty of time for our dogs. We do not cage them or leave them alone for hours on end. They have good healthy exercise / daily walks and are able to socialise with our other dogs and of course us too.
We have 6 Cockers of different ages, all of them are girls and none of them are spayed.. We all live together loose in our little house.

 

[JudyN]

I don't see why it shouldn't work, if you are prepared to spend a little less time together at first and are aware of the signs of littermate syndrome and how to avoid it. And if you are also prepared to keep them apart or manage them extremely carefully when the girl is in season. But one at a time will always be easier.

 

[Kevin Simpson]

Thank you for your replies everyone - it’s seems clear it’s probably best to avoid litter mates. I’d hate to compromise the optimal wellbeing and development of any dog.
Thanks again

Kevin