Storm and Olivia Litter – Week Five

 “The Porta Potty”

The space within the whelping box has been redefined. One end now features sleeping quarters and the other end has a tray filled with paper shredding that serves as their lavatory. This is the first step toward house training until we’re able to introduce them to the great outdoors. In addition, the pups now have gym memberships with an activity centre and numerous plush toys at their disposal. And it’s open 24/7. 

Dogs are pack animals and their emotional well-being relies on the presence of their pack-mates, whether other dogs or humans. It underscores the need for love that we all experience. The dynamic in the whelping box is evolving. This is the beginning of the most influential socialization period for the puppies. They’re learning to communicate with each other and with us by wagging their tails. With the increased control over their facial muscles, they are making expressions and are beginning to reveal their personalities and communicate their opinions. Their emotions are becoming apparent too, so they whine to show fear, whimper if they’re hurt and bark when they are excited, want attention or are ready for dinner. And they seem to be ready for dinner a lot! They spend longer periods of time awake and they use them to engage in some manner of play with their siblings whether head butting or wrestling, awake or asleep. Since the pups are get more social with each passing day, it’s impossible to walk past the whelping box without patting someone on the head or picking someone up for some quality cuddle time. Life is good.

The gang is growing steadily and is now getting three meals a day. Their muzzles are lengthening and are beginning to look a bit more like the adults they will eventually become. Since the pups are getting more accustomed to eating solid food, their food is being prepared a bit drier and they are drinking plenty of water to keep hydrated. Of course, Olivia still nurses the puppies to provide dessert and supplement their diet.

That’s it for now but be sure to join us next week for another regal installment of “Puppy Tales”.