Litter mate syndrome is a term used to describe the behaviour problems that can arise in dogs that have been raised together from birth. Dogs that have litter mate syndrome may become overly dependent on each other, leading to issues with anxiety, aggression, and other problematic behaviours.

If you have two puppies from the same litter, it's important to understand the risks of litter mate syndrome and take steps to prevent it from developing. Here are some tips to help you avoid the pitfalls of raising litter mates:

1. Separate the puppies as much as possible: Although it may be tempting to keep the puppies together all the time, it's important to give them time apart. This can help prevent the development of excessive dependence and allow each puppy to develop its own personality and confidence.

2. Train each puppy individually: It's important to train each puppy separately, so they can learn to respond to commands and behave appropriately without the presence of their sibling. This can also help to prevent conflicts between the puppies when they're together.

3. Provide plenty of socialisation opportunities: Socialisation is key to raising well-behaved dogs, and it's especially important for litter mates. Make sure each puppy has plenty of opportunities to interact with other dogs and people, both together and separately.

4. Avoid comparisons between the puppies: Even if the puppies are from the same litter, they are still individuals with their own strengths and weaknesses. Comparing them to each other can create tension and exacerbate any underlying issues.

5. Seek professional help if necessary: If you notice any signs of litter mate syndrome, such as excessive anxiety or aggression, it's important to seek professional help. A qualified dog trainer or behaviourist can help you develop a plan to address these issues and prevent them from becoming more severe.

By following these tips, you can help prevent litter mate syndrome and raise happy, healthy dogs that are well-behaved and well-adjusted.