Shelties times 2, 3, 4 into infinity!

[Fergus]

We started off with one dog...then added his daughter a couple years later...
I do love having more than one dog but it was hard to fit everything in so that they'd both get one on one time, and one on one training, etc. And because they were big dogs (collies) walking them together could be interesting as one of them was psycho-neurotic But they made a great pair.

I too wouldn't get two puppies from the litter. Well, actually I'm not a puppy person anyway but like the previous poster said, they may end up bonding more with each other than with their two legged family. Also on a strictly practical basis, two puppies will age together and by the time they're seniors that can be a large emotional & financial toll.

Clancy is just past 1 right now and he's really added some life to my old dog, who's 12 1/2. On her own, I think she'd forgotten about playing and was more interested in just sleeping. But with Clancy around to pester her, she's galloping around the yard to keep that little whippersnapper in line.

 

[Fergusmom]

Fergusmom is in total agreement with Fergus. I had two shelties from the same litter and would never do it again. The problem was not in bonding with me. They were very good about that. They stuck to me like velcro. The problem arose as they got older and started to develop health issues. I had to get a second job to keep up with the vet bills. They were absolutely astronomical. I am planning on getting a second dog hopefully in the near future. My Fergus (2yrs old) needs a companion but I will be going to rescue or possibly be getting a retired breeder a few years older than him. I know there are no guarantees that health issues won't come up with both dogs at the same time but I'm going to try to lessen my chances.

 

[Ariel]

I feel like they're happier having another dog to play with than being by themselves.

I agree. I really do believe Ariel is happy now, but I also remember WHY we got a 2nd dog years ago. I think it would be better to get a 2nd Sheltie while Ariel is still young, say before 1 year old, but I'm not sure. It seems she would adjust better while she is still highly energetic and in play mode most of the time.

 

[Chris]

We got Layla at 9 weeks, then her cousin Bits a few weeks later. They are very close. We welcomed then five year old Annie Laurie when they were two. They blend is wonderful. On August 15th, Layla's brother and Bits' cousin Beckon will join the group -- puppy time again! Four is my DH's limit, though!