Lucky Dog Training Academy

08/03/2025

08/03/2025

Thinking of adopting two puppies at once? We need to talk.

We get asked all the time about adopting two puppies together—either as playmates or because they’re thought to be a “bonded pair.” While it sounds sweet in theory, there are serious behavioral risks that come with raising two young puppies at the same time, whether they’re littermates or not.

Because of these risks, our rescue does not adopt out two puppies to the same home.

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🚫 What Is Littermate Syndrome?

“Littermate syndrome” refers to a range of behavioral issues that can occur when two puppies are raised together. It doesn’t just affect littermates—it can happen with any two puppies.

Puppies with littermate syndrome may:
• Become overly bonded and codependent
• Struggle to function independently
• Show anxiety, whining, or destructive behavior when separated
• Experience delayed training and poor social skills
• Become reactive or fearful of people, places, or other animals

These issues are tough and expensive to manage—and sadly, they often lead to dogs being returned or rehomed.

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💔 The “Bonded Pair” Myth

Two inseparable puppies may seem like a “bonded pair,” but it’s usually codependence. One pup often becomes the confident leader, while the other grows insecure and overly reliant. Neither dog learns to thrive on their own, and the timid pup is more likely to develop fear or reactivity.

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🎯 Our Priority: Long-Term Success

Our goal is to set every dog—and adopter—up for success. That means adopting one puppy at a time, so they can become confident, well-adjusted adults.

When your first puppy is thriving, a second dog may be a wonderful addition! But it’s a decision that should come with time, experience, and planning.

📚 Learn more:
• https://betternaturedogtraining.com/2013/07/18/littermate-syndrome
• https://stories.tamu.edu/news/2023/09/28/understanding-littermate-syndrome-in-puppy-pairs

We know it’s hard to say no to two adorable faces, but adopting one now and waiting until they’re ready is the best thing you can do—for both dogs and for your future self.

And if you see a rescue or breeder allowing two-puppy adoptions, ask why. Sadly, money can be a big motivator.

08/02/2025

Our first group class went great this morning ! These 3 dogs are pros at jumping and had a blast taking turns and working on timing and throwing. We still have available spots for group class. This is a great way to work your dog and get them use to taking breaks and being around the pool when others jump. Beginners welcome in group class too ! Check out the website to sign up!

07/31/2025

Good luck to Jenna and Reese this weekend at their first event! They had a great practice this morning and are super excited to be heading to Rock the Dock Air Dogs ! Can not wait to see this boy fly 🪽

07/31/2025

Heat injury and heat stroke are very real dangers right now. Watch your dogs carefully! Our trainers for dock are constantly evaluating our students (and the student's owners!) for signs of heat stress.

LET'S TALK HEATSTROKE. We have seen 2 dogs in the last 24 hours that were not doing anything outside of their normal daily activity. Heat Index that we have been experiencing here in the south means that it is too hot even for normal activity right now. When you see gums that are BEET red or darker and they are panting... THEY ARE OVERHEATING! It can happen in 10 minutes. If you find your dog in this situation get a water hose (Make sure the water is not hot) and soak them immediately and load them up! Minutes matter. Thankfully these two patients are going to be ok.

How to beat the heat:
1) Keep them indoors when possible and go for short leash walks to take care of business.

2) FANS, Shade and access to water if they MUST be outside. But know they can still overheat even if this is provided.

3) If they are outside.. Keep a check on them regularly. If they are running/barking/etc or say go chase after a squirrel... THIS CAN LEAD TO HEAT STROKE.

4) If you have a bulldog or short nosed breed... Keep them indoors. PERIOD.

Sorry to be so blunt. But this is a horrible way to go and if we can prevent ONE death I want to do so!

07/30/2025

Knox and Evie having fun swimming on a hot day! They tried out the new obstacle course weave poles. These two enjoy swimming and hot dogs 🌭 Sign your pup for some fun in the sun ☀️ Check out our website for availability!

07/29/2025

We still have spots available for group dock class starting this Saturday August 2! We are offering group class Saturday and Sunday mornings! Group class is a great way to learn and you can watch others while your pup rest up in between jumps/swims. OPEN TO ALL LEVELS ! You can bring a kennel if you want and I will have canopies set up for shade. Bring your pup out to cool off in the pool 💦 If you have any questions please let us know. See y’all this weekend 😎