The inseparable bond between two golden retriever puppies from different litters has delighted viewers online, sparking conversation in the comments about the pros and cons of bringing home littermates.
Posted on TikTok by the canines' owners under @buddyandbrunosworld, the video from January 16 has amassed more than 1.2 million views, drawing admiration for the duo's playful and affectionate antics.
Bruno and Buddy, based in Sydney, Australia, are just 14 weeks old and hail from different litters. Despite this, the clip highlights their deep connection, as they play, cuddle, and explore the world together.
Their owner captioned the post, "I think they're soulmates," with an overlay text reading: "POV: [Point of view] You got two goldens from different litters and now they are best friends." Newsweek reached out to @buddyandbrunosworld for more information via TikTok.
The heartwarming montage begins with Buddy playfully lounging in a daybed, only to be picked up by his owner. Bruno's reaction—a jubilant leap to greet his sibling—sets the tone for the duo's energetic bond.
A second clip shows the puppies tussling and snuggling around their shared crate, their carefree movements embodying pure joy. Later, the video shifts to moments of the pair frolicking outdoors, cuddling on the grass, and even swimming side by side in the sea.
In one particularly endearing segment, Buddy and Bruno sit together at a park, eagerly leaning forward to accept treats from their owner. The visible progression of their age throughout the clip makes clear how their companionship has only strengthened over time.
Golden retrievers are known for their affectionate and agreeable temperament, but Buddy and Bruno's relationship stands out as a testament to the emotional bonds that dogs can form when living together.
Despite the love than can grow between canine siblings, concerns have been raised about the negative implications of raising puppies that are the same age together. Some viewers on TikTok have pointed out the risks of this phenomenon, called littermate syndrome.
This refers to a behavioral condition that can occur when two sibling puppies are raised together, often resulting in developmental and social challenges.
Puppies affected by this condition may become overly dependent on each other, leading to issues such as separation anxiety, difficulty forming bonds with humans, and struggles with basic training and socialization.
"Personally I got two from the same litter and do not have a problem with littermate syndrome [I do not know] why people are hating," one viewer commented.
Another added: "It is not as common as people say but do look for signs of littermate syndrome. What beautiful pups they are."
"Will not miss everyone warning about littermate syndrome on EVERY video of two puppies like the creator has not seen it before," a third viewer posted.
Another comment read: "Adorable, but do some research on litter syndrome. It can happen if you bring two puppies from two different litters. Set them up for long term success."
The pets' owner responded to these comments, saying that the puppies live in separate areas of the house and only play a few times a day together when socialized.
"We socialize them separately too," the owner added.
While many viewers called out the downsides of littermate syndrome, others simply voiced their delight at the sweet bond the golden retriever duo had formed.
"The little tails wagging," one viewer said.
Another added: "I really hate how quick puppies grow."
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
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