Need to re-home our doodle puppy

[Lisa & Greg]

Hi all,

We have two 13-week-old female goodendoodles who are littermates and absolutely precious. We love both of them so much. The problem is they really don't like each other - an issue I knew was a possibility but thought with training and attention, it wouldn't happen. But they spend most of their waking hours fighting with each other. When they're separate, all is peaceful and they mind us wonderfully. After a lot of soul-searching and consultations with an expert we trust, we've concluded they just aren't happy living together and should be re-homed as soon as possible.

I contacted the dogs' breeder today and am waiting to hear back from her about next steps. I honestly don't know how we can choose between the two. They are both beautiful and each one has her own special personality. I've never had to make a decision like this but it really is in the best interest of the dogs.

Just starting the discussion here to see if anyone knows of anyone in the Maryland area (Balt/DC and So. Pa.) who is looking for a goldendoodle if our breeder is not able to take one back. We think we may likely give up our gorgeous blonde girl because she may be more attractive to folks wanting that "classic" goldendoodle look. The other one is dark-coated. They are both under a vet's care - regular checkups and recommended vaccines - and we have them in puppy ed classes. Both are already potty-trained too.

Here is a picture of them a few weeks ago:

I have gotten such great tips and information from the folks on this forum but most of all I can tell how much everyone here cares about dogs, so I trust you all and know I can find a wonderful home for our sweet puppy.

Any advice is welcome.

[F, Calla & Luca]

These two are very young and may just be working out pack dynamics. Perhaps you should speak to a trainer to evaluate them before reforming one.

[Lisa & Greg]

Hi - Yes, we have already spoken to an expert and received an evaluation. The problem is they seem very unhappy, not playful, together. There's a real difference in their behavior toward each other vs. other dogs who are having fun nipping and tussling. This is chasing, cornering, biting to the point of pain, barking at each other constantly, etc. Only when they're sleeping or separated do they seem at peace. I feel like I have to take control because I'm the one who forced them to live together. Now I have to be the one to help them live a happy life.

[F, Calla & Luca]

I am glad you have had expert advice. Separation sooner rather than later may be a good idea.

[Donna K & Quincy]

Lisa, I'm sorry that this is happening. Do you have someone that could take one of the puppies for a week or so and try introducing them again on neutral ground, somewhere away from your home and then bring them both back at the same time. I don't know if this will help but I think it may be worth a try.

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

Wow, my heart breaks for you.  I had liter mate sisters that looked just like these two and I can't even imagine having to choose to give one up.  I know my girls fought like crazy when they were little.  I'm guessing there is probably even a discussion on here about how to you know when they are fighting too rough.  I think your situation might just be one that we have not encountered here before.  I know we've had new puppies that the older dogs didn't get along with, but I don't think ever liter mates that just couldn't get along and weren't happy together. 

[Jennifer and Jack]

Your breeder if she is worth anything will take one back and or help you find a new home.......I am not in your situation and I don't know the answer.......

I rescued puppies and only had them for a few days but I will say that the way the litter mates played it looked like fighting..they did yelp...that's how they taught each other bite inhibition .....when we got Molly...she and Jack had to work it out...jack didn't like her...now they are good....

Please whatever you do ..do not put them on Craig's list or in a paper....that is almost surly sealing the deal on a horrid life...

[Adrianne Matzkin]

I am so sorry that you all are going through this!!! I know it cannot be easy.  If you decide you would like Doodle Rescue Collective's help, please private message me. I will give you all the support and help you need!

Good luck with whatever you decide!!

[Lisa & Greg]

All of you are so wonderful, thank you for the kind words of support! We're weighing our options at this point and waiting to hear from the breeder before we decide what to do. But please let's keep the dialogue going. It really does help to hear your opinions and thoughts.

[Lynette Main]

That's so sad. How could you pick. They're both very cute. good luck.

[Diane, Baker & Oskar]

We've all heard there could be problems between two females & I'm surprised it's an issue so young.

Years ago, we had two males (a yellow lab & a miniature schnauzer) who just could not work out the pack order...I called in a pet psychologist who decided it was the schnauzer that could not/would not submit...we kept them both for their entire lives & it was awful.  We were constantly on pins & needles that more blood could spill...

If you are convinced they are on each other's last nerve & nothing can be done about it, you are doing the right thing...please relinquish either to the breeder or DRC though...please let us know how it goes.

[Lisa & Greg]

Yes, I want to do the right thing. I'll keep everyone informed.

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

I know Adrianne Matzkin from the Doodle Rescue Inc offered help. She may have however forgotten to place the link in this discussion

http://doodlerescue.org/

or 

https://www.facebook.com/groups/50639015285/

In the past there have been several discussions about raising two pups together. Most discussions found evidence as to why this is not a great idea. We do have a few members who have been able to do this successfully, but experts advise against raising them together.  Many describe just what you are experiencing.

http://dogcare.dailypuppy.com/raise-two-dogs-1653.html

http://www.caninedevelopment.com/Sibling.htm

http://leerburg.com/2dogs.htm

http://www.whole-dog-journal.com/issues/13_1/features/Problems-Adop...

Most articles state that they bond together too much and become difficult to train and are under socialized.

But the first article cited that they may just hate each other. Just like you are experiencing. So your situation may not be all that uncommon and certainly it has been recognized.

I support your decision to do this now as they are very young.  The pups will be  happier and so will you for many years to come.

The pups are young and will have, in my opinion, less trouble adjusting into a new home now than later.

You realized it early, you sought a professional opinion, and I commend you for knowing what is best.  Personally,  and from what I have read, I think you are doing the right thing for all involved.