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Should I Get a Second Pomeranian? Expert Tips from Pomeranian Headquarters

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Last Updated on 29/11/2023 by Dochlaggie. Post first published on October 4, 2023.

Are you considering adding a second Pomeranian to your family? Here are some expert tips and insights to help you decide if it’s the right move.

I am often asked the question should I get a second puppy Pomeranian, or should I get a second Pomeranian?

I will explain litter syndrome and the risks of sibling puppies fighting when raising similar-aged Pomeranian Puppies.

Numerous breeders, trainers, dog behaviorists, and shelters actively discourage adopting siblings or even two dogs of the same age. There has been anecdotal evidence that behavior problems may occur during the main periods of development.

The two puppies have such a deep bond that it hinders their individual ability to grasp and absorb the fundamentals of canine and human communication methods.

Because dogs have a fear reaction to unfamiliar or unusual stimuli, it can confuse their world, and their coping skills will be impaired as they grow.

Many variables influence behavior; not all siblings raised together will exhibit the same signs.

Littermate Syndrome is the risky downside to raising sibling Pomeranian puppies. Littermate syndrome isn’t a given; it’s merely a risk to consider. 

Should I Get a Second Pomeranian?
Should I Get a Second Pomeranian?

Common Signs of Littermate Syndrome Include:

  •  Fearful around strangers, other dogs, and other unusual stimuli (neophobia).
  • Overwhelming feelings of anxiety if they’re even separated for a short time.
  • Trouble learning the simplest of obedience skills.

In certain cases, the two puppies will fight all the time. It’s an inevitable disaster because these littermates won’t become social with other people or dogs, let alone the people owning them.

Most owners think their interactions between themselves are sufficient.

However, they’ll completely freak out once they’re five or six months old and meet another dog in a new environment.

Raising littermates (or two puppies of the same age) means you must train two puppies.

This is especially hard as they only have their focus on each other. Their combined energy is off the charts.

Tension is created during compliance and training, and they try to push the owner out of that “relationship.” They always have a big distraction…each other.

Problems With Similar Aged Pom Puppies

When siblings live together, they’ll become completely emotionally dependent on each other, and any small period of separation causes them extreme distress.

The problem is called hyper-attachment, which leads to poor communication and social development skills.

People usually assume that if you have two puppies of the same age, they’ll play together, giving them great socializing skills.

Pomeranian Puppies
Two Pomeranian Puppies

However, that’s wrong. They know each other’s habits and are comfortable with each other. However, they have no idea how other dogs, adolescents, and puppies behave.

One puppy may be a little bully, and his mate tolerates it. A different dog may not like that and could cause problems for the bully.

It’s generally best to split up littermates, particularly if early symptoms appear. Then they’ll each have a good chance at developing as individuals instead of half of a pair. This can be a tough decision for the owner to make.

Pomeranian Puppies Who Are Together Forever

If an owner commits to raising a pair of puppies, he needs to split them up for a big part of each day so they can also learn what it’s like to be alone.

This is a critical part of any puppy plan. It includes feeding time, walks, and training each one as an individual. There should be two crates, one at each end of the house.

Trips to the vet and social outings are also best done with one puppy. Doing all these things helps each puppy not be too dependent on the other. These split tasks will be very time-consuming and tiring and might defeat the purpose of adopting siblings.

Making puppies sleep in crates beside each other can be tough enough or downright traumatic.

Each puppy must learn how to be on his own and be happy, a goal that’s extremely tough with siblings. Once achieved, each puppy can run around the house freely and play with each other.

If you can’t manage to teach them to be alone early on, it will be disastrous when one dies.

Dog behavioral experts recommend having three dogs in the house so if one dies, the other two console each other. However, their temperament, age, and timing are critical elements here.

Sibling Pomeranian Puppies Exceptions 

While most articles support that raising siblings is difficult, including possible ongoing fighting and aggressive behavior between littermates of the same sex, other articles will talk about pairs that live well together.

The common concept is that littermates will thrive better if an older dog is already present. He may act as a stabilizing influence.

Many factors can affect how dogs behave, including genes, owner engagement, and experiences early in life.

How much the owner gets involved is crucial, and problems will exist if the owner treats the siblings as one dog with eight legs.

Conflicts between the puppies occur if they’re the same sex, similar age, and similar in size. This prevents them from forming a hierarchy.

Should I Get a Second Pomeranian?
Should I Get a Second Pomeranian?

Increased Awareness of Sibling Pomeranian Puppies Issues

Breeders and shelters are becoming more aware of the risks of raising siblings, and many won’t place siblings with one owner.

While some siblings may be great socializers and have terrific genes, which helps ease the tensions between littermates, the professionals in the canine community state that it’s usually not worth that risk.

They encourage owners only to adopt one puppy that meets their needs, and then they can focus on his socializing and training to strengthen the bond between the dog and the owner.

Once the puppy has grown up, you can get another dog because you won’t have the additional headaches that littermates present, and the new puppy will learn from the older dog.

Are Pomeranians Good With Other Dogs?

With their spirited demeanor and lively personalities, Pomeranians often become the center of attention in any household. Regarding their interactions with other dogs, the answer is not black and white but rather varies based on individual temperament and upbringing.

Generally, Pomeranians can get along well with their canine counterparts, especially if they are introduced to them in a controlled and positive manner from a young age.

However, due to their petite size and sometimes bold attitude, Pomeranians might perceive themselves as much larger than they are. This can occasionally make them assertive or even aggressive with larger dogs.

Owners must monitor their interactions and provide proper socialization training. With guidance and exposure, Pomeranians can coexist harmoniously with other dogs, enjoying playful interactions and forming lasting bonds.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the decision to get a second Pomeranian is a personal one that hinges on various factors, including your current Pom’s temperament, your ability to care for two dogs, and the environment you can offer.

Pomeranians are social creatures, and having another of their kind can often lead to joyful companionship and play. However, ensuring both dogs receive equal attention, training, and care is essential.

Weigh the benefits before making a final decision against the challenges, and consider seeking advice from seasoned Pomeranian owners or professionals. If circumstances align, introducing a second Pomeranian can be a rewarding experience, doubling the joy and love in your home

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References and Further Reading:
[1] Official Standard of the Pomeranian (AKC). American Kennel Club, 2011.
[2] English Kennel Club Pomeranian Breed Standard, 2017.
[3] Denise Leo, The Pomeranian Handbook.
[4] Milo G. Denlinger “The Complete Pomeranian.”
[5] Kimbering Pomeranians “1891-1991”.
[6] William Taplin’s “The Sportsman’s Cabinet.”
[7]  E. Parker “The Popular Pomeranian.”
[8] Lilla Ives “Show Pomeranians.”

Should I Get a Second Pomeranian?
Should I Get a Second Pomeranian?

Learn Everything about Pomeranians in The Pomeranian Handbook

About

Denise Leo

Pomeranians are my passion, and I have shared my life with these darling little dogs for many decades. The creator and face behind this website is published author and Pomeranian breed authority Denise Leo of Dochlaggie Pomeranians.

Denise Leo
Denise Leo