Expert: Have4Paws - 11/13/2008

Question
We just lost our Beagle after many happy years.  We are going to wait a few weeks/months before deciding what to do next but we have discussed getting a pair this time, as in litter mates.

We can handle the extra time and financial commitments in exchange for the love and entertainment that a pair of these characters could provide.  My questions are: are litter mates a good idea?  Are there better potential pairings?  What kinds of problems can be expected that you might not have with a single dog?

Thanks,
Neil

Answer
Hi, glad to hear from you. My deepest apologies for taking so long to get back to you. I have had that flu that's been going around pretty bad.

I can so feel for you about losing your baby, I lost one of mine a year go this month and not a day goes by that I don't think of him, even with 4 others in the house with me.

Regarding litter mates..... the funny thing about dogs is that to be honest they don't seem to know the difference when they grow up. They won't bond any more to a littermate than to another dog outside their litter. The only advantage I could see would be that you would know the lineage and medical background on both if they were from the same litter, but beagles don't typically have a lot of genetic issues to watch out for anyway (eg: hip dysplasia, or retina problems etc as in some other breeds).

As far as good pairings it is said that the ideal is a female and a male however, I have had same sex pairs as well and not had any problems. Two dogs are great as they become companions to each other and if fairly well matched in age and temperament provide natural exercise and stimulation. Negatives to two..... well, twice as much poo, more food, and each wanting your attention. Somebody is going to end up the top dog so you want to reinforce that after they figure out who that is.

I would encourage you to look at rescuing a couple beagles if possible. I am a sucker for beagle puppies and their fat little bodies are one of my favorite things in the whole world, yet I know how many need homes already. Additionally, you might be able to skip the house-breaking part which with two at the same time can be a handful.

Hope this helps some... Good luck with whomever you choose.

Have4Paws