The period following the birth of a litter of puppies is a remarkable time in the life of a female dog.
The behaviors exhibited by a mother dog during this phase reflect her innate instincts and unwavering dedication to her offspring.
Understanding the mother dog behavior after giving birth is essential for dog owners and caretakers. It provides the necessary care and support.
This article will delve into this topic, unraveling the instincts and behaviors that shape this pivotal stage of canine motherhood.
What Is The Mother Dog Behavior After Giving Birth?
The mother dog exhibits various instinctual behaviors after delivery, including nesting, nursing, cleaning, licking, aggressive and anxious behavior, a lethargic attitude, urinating in your house, refusing contact, and training the pups.
Her primary focus is on caring for and ensuring the well-being of her newborn puppies.
Nesting (Digging Up Blankets, Paper, etc.)
Mother dogs show nesting behavior to create a safe and comfortable environment for their pups.
This instinctual nesting involves seeking a secluded location, such as a corner or a quiet area, where they can give birth and care for the newborns.
They may engage in behaviors like rearranging or digging blankets to build a cozy and warm nest.
Mother dogs also often gather soft materials (like towels or shredded paper) to provide puppies with a cushioned and comfortable space.
Nursing
Mother dogs nurse their puppies by allowing them to latch onto their teats and suckle for nourishment.
They position themselves to provide their pups easy access to the teats, ensuring equal access for all of her offspring.
The mother’s body releases oxytocin when the puppies nurse, fostering the milk to flow.
The mom also adjusts her milk production to meet the growing puppies’ needs and gradually weans them as they age, introducing solid food.
A balanced diet, fresh water, and a calm environment support nursing.
Cleaning
Mother dogs exhibit essential cleaning behaviors to maintain the hygiene and well-being of their puppies.
I notice my female dog uses her tongue to lick and groom the puppies regularly after labor.
The mother dog pays particular attention to cleaning the genital and anal areas of the puppies, ensuring they are free from waste and promoting cleanliness.
Through meticulous cleaning, the mother dog helps maintain the puppies’ health and establish a sanitary environment for their growth and development.
A Lot Of Licking
After giving birth, the mothers have an increased licking behavior for several reasons. As mentioned, licking is vital for cleaning and maintaining hygiene for the mother and her puppies.
By licking the newborns, she can remove birth fluids, stimulate circulation, and help keep them clean.
Additionally, licking promotes bonding and recognition as the mother’s scent is transferred to the puppies, fostering a sense of familiarity and security.
Furthermore, this maternal behavior stimulates the puppies’ bodily functions, such as urination and defecation, which they are initially unable to do independently.
The mother dog’s increased licking behavior after giving birth serves to nurture, care for, and establish a strong connection with her offspring.
Aggressive And Possessive Behavior
After delivery, the puppies’ mom may have an aggressive and possessive tendency as a natural response to protect their vulnerable kid.
This arises from their strong maternal instincts and the need to ensure the safety and well-being of their offspring.
Hormonal changes, such as increased oxytocin and prolactin levels, contribute to heightened protective instincts.
Fear, anxiety, and past negative experiences can further trigger aggressive behavior.
The mother may display possessiveness over resources and set boundaries to safeguard their puppies.
It is important to provide a secure and supportive environment while monitoring the mother dog’s attitude and seeking professional guidance.
That’s because the aggression becomes excessive or poses a risk to the puppies or others.
Anxious Behavior
In the postpartum period, some mothers get signs of anxiety due to hormonal changes, heightened responsibilities, and the need to protect their vulnerable kids.
The sudden increase in hormonal levels, such as cortisol and adrenaline, can contribute to heightened anxiety.
The immense responsibility of caring for a litter of puppies and the instinctual drive to keep them safe can stir up stress and worry in the mother dog.
The unfamiliarity of the postpartum experience and the potential for previous negative experiences can further contribute to anxiety.
Provide a calm and secure environment, make sure the mother dog’s needs are met, and offer gentle reassurance.
Doing so can help alleviate anxiety and support her in confidently caring for her puppies.
Lethargic Behavior
This is a normal behavior of this period. The physical and emotional demands of pregnancy, labor, and caring for newborn puppies can take a toll on the mother’s energy levels.
Lethargy can be a natural response to the physical exhaustion and hormonal changes that occur during and after giving birth.
The mom’s body needs time to recover and heal, and rest is essential for her well-being. Additionally, the demands of nursing and constantly caring for her puppies can lead to fatigue.
Urinating In Your House
Mother dogs urinating in the house after giving birth can happen for various reasons.
Firstly, the stress and physical exertion associated with birthing and caring for puppies can temporarily disrupt a mother dog’s normal bathroom habits.
Also, hormonal changes during and after pregnancy can affect bladder control and increase the frequency of urination.
The mother dog may also be experiencing weakened pelvic muscles or bladder sensitivity due to the strain of giving birth.
The presence of pups and the added responsibility of constantly tending to their needs can lead to temporary lapses in the mother dog’s house training.
Refusing Contact
One common explanation for this matter is that the mother dog is displaying an instinctual need to protect her newborn puppies.
My dog perceives any contact with me, other humans, or other animals as a potential threat to the safety of her litter.
The shift in hormones during this period can explain the mother dog’s heightened anxiety and defensive behavior.
It is crucial to respect the mother dog’s need for space and allow her to establish a secure and comfortable environment for her puppies.
Patience, gentle approaches, and observing her cues are essential in fostering a positive relationship and allowing the mother dog to bond with her puppies at her own pace.
Training The Pups
Mother dogs play a crucial role in training their pups. Through their interactions, they teach their pups essential skills and behaviors necessary for their development.
Through play and gentle discipline, she helps her kids learn bite inhibition, body language cues, and appropriate play behaviors.
The mother dog’s presence and guidance provide a foundation for the puppies’ future learning and socialization.
While the mother dog takes the lead in training, human involvement is also well worth it in providing a supportive and structured environment that complements the mother’s teachings.
What Are The Physical And Mental Changes Of The Mother Dog After Delivery?
Some common physical and mental changes observed in mother dogs after delivery include:
Physical Changes:
- Engorged mammary glands:
The mother dog’s mammary glands will enlarge and become filled with milk to nourish the puppies. This can make the area around the nipples appear swollen.
- Vaginal discharge:
A clear to reddish-brown discharge, known as lochia, is normal for a few weeks after giving birth. It helps cleanse the reproductive tract.
- Weight loss:
The mother dog may experience weight loss due to the energy expended during labor and nursing her puppies.
- Increased appetite and thirst:
Nursing puppies require a significant amount of the mother’s energy, increasing appetite and thirst.
- Abdominal contractions:
The mother dog’s uterus will continue to contract for a few days after delivery, helping it return to its normal size.
Mental changes:
- Protective instincts:
The moms develop a strong sense of protectiveness towards their puppies. They become vigilant.
- Increased patience:
Mother dogs showcase remarkable patience with their puppies, even when they are demanding or exploring their boundaries.
- Emotional changes:
They may exhibit signs of contentment, satisfaction, or even occasional anxiety as they adapt to the demands of motherhood.
- Adjustment to new routines:
Mother dogs quickly fit in new routines that revolve around caring for their puppies. They establish a feeding schedule and provide her offspring warmth and comfort.
What Should You Do After Your Dogs Give Birth To Help Mother Dog Behavior?
Health Monitor
Pay close attention to the mother dog’s behavior. Look for significant changes in appetite, thirst, activity level, or behavior.
It may indicate a health issue if she becomes lethargic, shows signs of distress, or displays an abnormal attitude.
Assess your furry friend’s body temperature regularly. You should also ensure she maintains a healthy weight and check for any symptoms of weight loss or gain.
Visible ribs or excessive weight loss could indicate a health problem, while sudden weight gain could suggest complications.
Don’t forget to monitor the mother dog’s food and water intake. A decrease in appetite or water consumption could be a sign of an underlying issue.
She must access fresh water and a balanced diet to support her recovery and milk production.
Help To Take Care Puppy
First, you should set up a quiet and secure area, such as a whelping box or a designated room.
This place is where the mother dog and her puppies can stay undisturbed.
It must be warm, clean, and free from drafts or potential hazards.
In the early days, the mother stimulates her puppies’ elimination by licking their genital area.
However, you can use a warm, damp cloth or cotton ball to mimic this action if needed gently. This helps with keeping the puppies clean and encourages proper elimination.
The mom will naturally groom her puppies, but you can help by keeping the whelping area clean.
Replace soiled bedding promptly, clean up messes, and ensure proper ventilation to prevent odors and maintain a sanitary environment.
Moreover, sometimes I have to stop the pups’ fight. Otherwise, the mom cannot take a rest and gets annoyed!
Another thing you can help with is scheduling veterinary check-ups. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for the mother dog and her puppies.
When To Call A Vet
While it’s common for mother dogs to exhibit certain behaviors after giving birth, there are situations where it is important to contact a veterinarian for guidance and support.
Here are some instances when you should call a vet regarding the mother dog’s behavior after giving birth:
- Aggressive or abnormal behavior
- Excessive restlessness or pacing
- Continuous crying or signs of distress
- High fever (ex: get hot ears at night)
- Consistently lack of interest in the puppies
- Unusual discharge or bleeding
Conclusion
The behavior of a mother dog after giving birth is marked by a range of instinctual and nurturing behaviors.
From nesting and creating a den to nursing, cleaning, and exhibiting protective behaviors, the mother dog’s primary focus is the well-being and care of her puppies.
Supporting your four-legged friends after giving birth is essential in ensuring the healthy development and growth of the puppies.
