The puppies continue to do well, feeding and gaining weight. Poppy is a stalwart! She is voraciously hungry and thirsty but, always looks after her babies. She loves to lie in the sun and sleep, in between feeds. She is also very territorial around the property, barking loudly at any noises.
We have the outdoor and, indoor playpens built and ready for the onslaught of 13 little terrors! We will need to cut their nails again today. They grow so quickly! We will soon be introducing some warm milk with cereal for them to lap from a saucer, in preparation for the weaning process. Poppy feeds for shorter periods now since, the puppies are taking more milk quicker and needing less time at the teat. She will appreciate her freedom again as the babies start to wean and get a taste for real food. Cleaning up will be a man-sized job!
The puppies are two weeks old today! Number 13, Mr T, was the first to open his eyes, two days ago, closely followed by Miss Black, firstborn. They look so adorable, looking at you with those big brown eyes. Mr T is very happy to be held and licks your face, lovingly. The rest of the puppies are slowly catching up. There are only two who’s eyes haven’t yet opened. Their ear canals should be opening around now also, in time to explore their exciting new world and, hear all the lovely sounds of nature!
We look forward to their progress. They already like to fall asleep in your lap and, daddy Angus is showing a great interest in his progeny, once they are away from the whelping box and sitting with us in the next room. He was fascinated yesterday to see his baby in front of him and very gently licked it’s face and ears. Poppy was in attendance but then lay down beside us, trusting her mate, not to hurt their precious babies. It will be interesting to see the father-child relationship develop over the next few weeks.
