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Olivia - Day 56 Pre-Parturition

Olivia Day 56 Pre -Parturition

As we head into Olivia's final week of pregnancy, we can see that she is now slowing down! She’s still interested in the chipmunks, birds, and squirrels—just like the other dogs—but she’s less inclined to even attempt chasing them.

She is currently eating four smaller meals a day, as she’s growing quite large. Her original waistline was 27 inches (68.6 cm), and this morning she measured 35.5 inches (90.2 cm).

We’ve now set up her birthing box—called a whelping box—in our bedroom. We’re all ready for the big day... or should I say night? Dogs often give birth overnight. This preference is rooted in their survival instincts, prompting them to seek out quiet, secluded places—conditions more likely to be found under the cover of darkness. In the wild, they would dig a burrow or find a sheltered spot, typically in a dark or hidden area, to create a safe, den-like space for their puppies.

Once the puppies are born, we set up a 24/7 camera so the expectant families can watch whenever they like. They’ll be able to see the environment the pups are in and follow their growth until they head off to their forever homes.

Stay tuned!

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Location: Caledon, ON, Canada

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