When Dogs Don't Get Along: Finding the Right Fit
We all want our dogs to live happily alongside their furry family members. We imagine lifelong friendships, shared adventures and cosy afternoons together. But sometimes, despite our best intentions, things don't work out that way.
Dogs have individual personalities, needs and boundaries. While some thrive in multi-dog households, others struggle to share their space with certain animals. When conflict becomes a regular part of life at home, it can leave both dogs and their families stressed and unsettled.
For Sassy, Jazz and Lexus, difficulties with other dogs in their households ultimately led to the difficult but responsible decision to rehome them. Their stories are a reminder that choosing a canine companion requires careful consideration, and compatibility should never be taken for granted.
Same-Sex Dogs
Research suggests that same-sex pairings may be a factor worth considering when introducing another dog into the household.
A 2025 South African study examining household dog-bite injuries found that 71% of fighting pairs for which sex information was available involved dogs of the same sex (Hanekom et al., 2025).
This doesn't mean that two males or two females cannot live happily together. However, it highlights a potential risk that prospective owners should consider alongside each dog's temperament, history and social preferences.
Littermates
Adopting two puppies from the same litter might seem like a wonderful idea. They'll grow up together, keep each other company and become lifelong friends, right?
Not necessarily.
As puppies mature, their personalities and relationships can change. Even littermates that initially get along may develop conflict, and growing up together doesn't guarantee lifelong compatibility.
Raising two puppies also requires individual training, socialisation, attention and opportunities to develop independence. Owners need to be prepared to meet each dog's needs separately rather than assuming the pair will naturally thrive together.
BarkingMad has encountered cases where littermates develop aggression towards one another as they mature, particularly with female siblings. However, the term “littermate syndrome” is widely debated, is not a formally recognised veterinary behavioural diagnosis, and has limited scientific evidence supporting it as a distinct condition.
The takeaway? Research the potential challenges carefully before deciding to raise two puppies together.
Choosing Dogs That Complement Each Other
Breed is another factor to consider when choosing a canine companion.
A 2025 South African study examining households where dogs had sustained bite injuries found that Boerboels, German Shepherds and Pit Bull Terriers were over-represented in the study group compared with control households (Hanekom et al., 2025).
These findings offer useful local insight into dog-bite incidents, but they do not establish that these breeds are inherently aggressive or incompatible with other dogs. Breed characteristics can influence behaviour, but individual temperament, experience and environment matter too.
Size is also worth considering. Large and small dogs can form wonderful bonds, but a significant difference in size and strength can increase the risk of serious injury if a fight occurs.
Rather than choosing a companion based on appearance or assuming two dogs will simply become friends, consider their energy levels, play styles, social preferences and behavioural histories. Careful introductions and appropriate supervision are essential.
Research cannot guarantee a perfect match, but understanding the potential risks can help owners make more informed decisions.
When a New Beginning Is the Kindest Choice
When dogs struggle to coexist, owners may understandably hope that things will eventually improve.
Sometimes, veterinary assessment, environmental changes and guidance from a qualified animal behaviour professional can help. But not every situation can be resolved safely, particularly when there has been serious aggression or a risk of injury.
The welfare of every animal involved must remain the priority. When a household is no longer a safe or suitable environment, responsible rehoming may offer a better way forward. It isn't necessarily a failure or a lack of love. Sometimes, it means recognising that a dog's needs would be better met elsewhere.
Three Dogs, Three Fresh Starts ❤️
Thankfully, Sassy, Jazz and Lexus have all found happy new homes!
Their journeys remind us that finding the right home isn't simply about finding somewhere for a dog to live. It's about finding an environment where they can feel safe, secure and understood.
No amount of planning can guarantee that two dogs will remain compatible forever. What matters is making informed choices, recognising when something isn't working and responding with compassion.
For Sassy, Jazz and Lexus, a difficult chapter has led to a new beginning. And that's what the journey home is all about: finding a place where each dog has the opportunity to thrive.
Because every dog deserves a home where they can feel safe, loved and truly at ease. 🐾
Reference
Hanekom, J., Thompson, P.N., Schoeman, J.P. & Van Vollenhoven, E. 2025, 'Household hostilities: A descriptive study of inter-dog aggression requiring veterinary treatment of dog bite wounds in Pretoria, South Africa', Applied Animal Behaviour Science, vol. 292, article 106819. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2025.106819
