The birth of your dog’s puppies is an exciting time, but what if your beloved furry friend rejects her new litter? While most dogs effortlessly take on motherhood, there are instances when a mother dog neglects or rejects her pups. This can be distressing, but with proper intervention, the puppies have a chance at survival.
Signs of a Dog Rejecting Puppies
To determine if your dog has rejected her puppies, watch out for the following signs:
- Lack of instinctive licking of each puppy after birth
- Spending long periods away from the litter
- Showing signs of stress and physically moving the puppies away from her
- Excessive crying from the puppies
In extreme cases, a mother may even kill and consume her puppies. Timely monitoring of your dog during the early stages is crucial to prevent such situations.
Reasons for Puppy Rejection
There are several possible explanations for why a mother dog would reject her litter of puppies:
No Recognition
If a dog is young or has given birth via caesarean section, she may not immediately recognize the puppies as her own.
Stress
Extreme stress during labor or shortly after giving birth can trigger behaviors such as aggression and dissonance, leading to puppy rejection.
Unhealthy Puppies
Dogs still possess survival instincts from their wild ancestors. If a puppy is sick or weak, the mother may instinctively abandon or harm it, prioritizing the survival of the strongest and healthiest in the litter.
No Maternal Instinct
A lack of natural maternal instinct can be observed in young bitches or those who were separated early from their own mothers.
Illness or Injury
If a dog is unwell or injured after giving birth, it may lead to rejecting the litter. Conditions like mastitis, which causes inflammation and pain in the teats, can make nursing the pups uncomfortable for the mother.
What Action Should You Take?
If you’re unsure if your dog is being attentive to her pups, observe her in a quiet area and stay with her to assess the situation. If all the puppies are actively feeding, it’s a positive sign.
If your dog is not with the pups or showing signs of illness or injury, contact your vet immediately. They will assess both mother and puppies and provide necessary treatment. If hand feeding becomes necessary, your vet can recommend the best formula for the puppies.
In cases where the mother displays aggression towards the pups, remove them immediately to prevent a tragic outcome. If you’re uncertain about how to care for the puppies, most vets offer free support and information over the phone.
Stress can be alleviated with aids like Adaptil, a natural pheromone that induces a calm state in dogs. Consult your vet for other potential alternatives that may be available under prescription.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Conclusion
The rejection of puppies by a mother dog can be a challenging situation to navigate. By recognizing the signs, understanding the reasons, and taking appropriate action, you can give the puppies a fighting chance. Remember, when it comes to your dog and her litter, the care and support you provide can make all the difference.