Aggressive new mothers?

[Crimson Ghost]

After my pup has her litter should I keep my children at bay ? Lucy is a Lab and incredibly docile and all around well mannered. I am just concerned about a bitch and the instinct to protect her young.

[barnjess]

It really depends on your dog, take care and see how she is

[Blaze]

I would be very cautious at first. Even the most docile dog can react under stress. Introduce your children to the pups slowly and just see how it goes, if she acts at all stressed or apprehensive then leave them for a while and try again when she's more secure.

[rottiegirl]

It doesn't depend on the dog, it depends on the kids! While she is giving birth don't have them be there, first of all, unless they are VERY mature they will most likley be grossed out by all of the wonderful things that come with births (afterbirth, umbilical chords, ect.) and being kids they might squeal or yell, and that WILL upset your new momma! In favt give mom a few hours alone with the babies (not truely alone, you stay in the same room, but watch some soft TV, read a book, ECT) and not have people jump all over her and the pups, you should handle the pups right from the start, as well as someone who she trusts (your spouse, or whoever) Have kids be the last to see pups, and what I do is have them sit just outside the whelping box, you take a puppy from the momma and hand it off to your kids, them when it's time for the puppies to go back to mom you return them, keep this up for a few days, untill she settles down! Good luck!

[Crimson Ghost]

I can agree with that. I wouldn't let my children watch - ****, I think it will gross me out....I mostly concerned with the next day - I like the idea of taking a pup from her and handing it to the kids.

After birth will mom stay with the pups or should I clsoe the door on the whelping box ?

[rottiegirl]

Leave it open for her, as she will be a bit sore (so she won't have to jump out) Most moms won't leave there pups for the first few days, you may actully have to put a leash and collar on her to get her to go outside for a few days.

[barnjess]

It does depend on the dog I have had dogs who are very happy for you to handle the puppys, others panic, and some will not let you untill they are ready!