I have just received two darling dashund puppies (1 male & 1 female, both 12 weeks, but not related). I have a large wire crate that they have been sleeping and snuggling together in for the past two weeks. Next week I go back to school and will be gone 8 hours a day... should they continue to be crated together during those long spells? I have a neighbor that will check on them during the day... but I'm worried about their potty training, loneliness, etc. Thanks so much for this website... I have just found it and learned a lot already!

I think you are risking some problems by leaving them together. On the other hand, I am sure they love being together. You seldom have a problem with a male and female getting along.

It is great your neighbor can give them a break mid day. I am a great believer in crates, but 8 hours is too long to leave 12 week olds.