Saying, my dog keeps squishing her puppies you are not alone. Many dog owners face this scary and confusing time during the early weeks after birth.Are you worried and thinking, “Why does my dog keep squishing her puppies even though she seems to care for them?” It can be very confusing to watch her act rough or lie too close to her little ones.
You might not know what is normal and what is dangerous. Many first-time dog owners feel the same. Understanding why this happens can help keep the puppies safe and the mother calm.It’s heartbreaking to see your dog accidentally hurt the very puppies she just gave birth to. You may be checking on them every hour, scared that something might go wrong.
Why my dog keeps squishing her puppies?
Your dog keeps squishing her puppies, and you’re not sure why. Don’t worry—with the right help and small changes, you can protect those tiny lives.
My dog keeps squishing her puppies means the mother dog is pressing down or lying on her puppies in a way that could harm them. This often happens by accident, especially with first-time moms. The puppies are small and weak, so they can’t move away when the mother shifts her body. Sometimes the dog doesn’t realize it is hurting them. This behavior can be dangerous, so it’s important to understand why it’s happening and how to stop it.Why does my dog keep squishing her puppies?
Some mother dogs do not know how to care for their puppies at first. If it’s her first time she may not realize that she is pressing too hard or lying on them. But puppies are small and weak, and they can get hurt easily. Sometimes dogs act this way when they feel tired, sick or confused. It is not always on purpose but it can be dangerous. That’s why it is important to watch her closely in the early days.
My dog keeps squishing her puppies. Is it normal?
Mother dogs often cuddle their puppies to keep them warm. This is natural and helps the puppies feel safe. But lying too hard or in the wrong position can hurt them. Some dogs may not know they are pressing too much. This can happen more with big dogs or large litters. If the puppies cry a lot or struggle to breathe it may mean she is squishing them. You need to make sure she has enough space and support.
Can a mother dog accidentally kill her puppies?
Yes, it can happen by accident. Puppies are very small and can’t move out of the way. If the mother lies on them or steps on them, they may not survive. This is more common when she is tired, sick, or not used to being a mom. Sometimes large dogs have trouble noticing where each puppy is. It is not because she is bad. It is just that she needs a little help and a safer space to care for them.
Why is my dog being rough with her puppies?
Mother dogs sometimes act rough when they feel overwhelmed or in pain. If she snaps, steps on them, or keeps moving them harshly, she might be stressed. She may also be guarding them too much or trying to move them to a quiet place. First-time moms may not know how gentle they need to be. You should watch her behavior and see if something is bothering her. A vet check can help rule out any health problems.
How to stop my dog from lying on her puppies?
You can help your dog by giving her a safe and quiet space. Use a whelping box that has side rails to protect the puppies. These rails keep the mom from rolling fully on them. Make sure the area is clean and soft so everyone stays comfy. Try not to disturb her too much but check in often. If she seems unsure, help her find a good position to nurse. Stay calm and support her without touching the puppies too much.
When to step in and help the puppies?
You should step in when the puppies cry a lot, seem cold, or have trouble breathing. These are signs they are not safe. If one puppy keeps getting pushed away, you may need to help bring it closer to Mom. If she steps on them often, gently move her back. Always wash your hands and be soft. If things don’t feel right, call your vet. It’s better to be safe and protect the puppies early on.
Should I separate the dog from her puppies?
You should only separate them if the puppies are in danger. Most of the time, staying with their mom is best. But if she is too rough or keeps lying on them, short breaks can help. Move the puppies for feeding or sleeping and then return them. Keep her close so she doesn’t panic. A playpen or safe divider can give her space while still letting her see them. Always keep things calm and gentle.
How to tell if the mother dog is bonding with her puppies?
You can tell if the mother is bonding by watching her actions. If she licks them, stays close, and lets them nurse, that’s a good sign. She should seem calm and loving. If she avoids them or gets angry, there may be a problem. Some dogs need time, especially if they are scared or new moms. Keep her space peaceful and warm. Talk to a vet if she doesn’t show care after the first day.
What is a whelping box and why do you need one?
A whelping box is a special space for a mother dog and her puppies. It keeps them safe and in one place. The sides stop the puppies from crawling away. The rails on the inside stop the mom from laying too hard on them. It should be clean, soft, and warm. You can buy one or make it at home. Every new dog mom needs a box like this to keep her puppies safe.
How to build a whelping box at home?
You can use a large plastic bin or a wooden box. Make sure it has low sides so the mom can step in easily. Add soft blankets and towels. Use pool noodles or wooden rails around the inside. These rails stop the mom from squishing the puppies. Keep it in a quiet room. Clean the box every day and keep it warm.
What to do if your puppy stops breathing?
It’s considerable to see a puppy not moving or breathing. If you stay calm and act fast you may be able to help. Here’s how to do CPR on a small puppy:
1. Check for breathing
Place your ear or hand near the puppy nose and mouth. If you don’t hear or feel any breath start CPR.
2. Lay the puppy correctly
Put the puppy on its right side on a flat surface.
3. Do chest compressions
Use two fingers for tiny puppies or the palm of your hand for bigger ones. Press gently on the chest behind the front legs. Do about 100 to 120 gentle pushes per minute.
4. Give rescue breath
After every 30 compressions give 2 small breaths. Close the puppy mouth and breathe into the nose until the chest rises.
5. Keep going
Repeat 30 compressions and 2 breaths. Don’t stop until the puppy starts breathing again or help arrives.
If your puppy starts to breathe again keep it warm and quiet. Call your vet right away and explain what happened. Even if the puppy looks okay, it still needs a check-up.
How big should the whelping box be?
The box should be big enough for the dog to lie down fully. There should be extra room for the puppies to move a little. A box that is too small can cause accidents. If it’s too big, the puppies may get cold. Pick the right size based on your dog’s breed. Most medium dogs do well with 4 feet by 4 feet. Always test it before the puppies come.
How often should i check on the puppies?
Check on the puppies many times a day. In the first week, they need the most care. Watch if they are crying, cold, or not eating. Look to see if the mom is feeding them gently. Make sure none are pushed to the side. Quick checks are best so the mom doesn’t get upset. A calm, quiet visit helps you see any problem early.
Signs something is wrong with a puppy
If a puppy cries a lot, seems cold, or doesn’t move much, something may be wrong. If one is smaller or not nursing, it might be weak. Look for any swelling or hard belly. If you see bleeding or shaking, call your vet right away. Keep that puppy warm until help arrives. It’s best not to wait if anything feels off.
How to gently check the puppies?
Wash your hands before touching them. Lift the puppy slowly and hold it close to your chest. Check if it feels warm, soft, and active. Don’t flip it or move it too much. Place it back near the mom once done. Try not to touch them too often, just enough to make sure they’re okay. Stay calm so the mother stays calm too.
How to keep the mother dog calm and happy?
Why my dog keeps squishing her puppies?Give her a quiet space with no loud noise or people. Let her rest and feed without being disturbed. Keep her water and food nearby. Talk to her in a soft voice. Pet her gently if she likes it. Keep other pets away during the first few weeks. A calm mom will take better care of her puppies.
Do I need to stay with the dog all the time?
You don’t have to stay with her all day, but check in often. Try to be there during the first few days. If she seems nervous, sit nearby. Some dogs feel better with their owner close. Others need space. Watch how she acts and do what helps her stay calm. Let her know she is not alone.
Can pain or illness cause this behavior
Yes, sometimes pain or sickness makes a dog act in a strange way. If she has an infection or sore nipples, she may avoid the puppies. If she keeps panting, shaking, or looks sad, she could be in pain. Mastitis is common in nursing dogs and needs fast care. A sick dog may not care for the puppies well. Always talk to your vet if you see anything odd.
Signs your dog might be in pain
- If your dog keeps licking one spot, whines, or doesn’t eat, she may be in pain.
- If she avoids nursing or moves away from the puppies, check her closely.
- Swollen nipples, hot skin, or red areas are warning signs
- Don’t wait too long to call the vet.
- Pain can cause her to act rough without meaning to.
How many puppies is too many?
If your dog has a big litter, she may get tired or confused. Some dogs can care for 4 to 6 puppies easily. More than that can be hard. The puppies may not get enough milk or warmth. The mother may lay on them by mistake. You might need to bottle-feed a few puppies. A vet can guide you if the litter is too large.
How to help with feeding in large litters?
Take turns feeding the puppies in small groups. Let some nurse while others rest. After 10 to 15 minutes, switch them. Make sure each puppy gets a fair turn. If the mother can’t feed all, use a puppy milk replacer. Keep track of their weight and call the vet if one stops growing. Helping with feeding can save lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should the mother stay with the puppies?
The mother should stay with the puppies full-time for the first three weeks. This is when they need her the most. She will feed them, clean them, and keep them warm. After three weeks, they start to explore and eat a little. She will slowly spend less time with them. By six to eight weeks, they can start to eat on their own. Never rush the process. Let her stay as long as they want.
Is it normal for my dog to keep licking her puppies?
Yes, licking is normal for a mother dog. It licks to clean the puppies and help them go to the bathroom. It also helps her bond with them. But if she licks too much or seems rough watch her closely. Too much licking may show stress or health problems. If you’re unsure, ask your vet to take a look.
Why does my dog keep hurting her puppies?
Sometimes a mother dog hurts her puppies by mistake. She may not know how gentle she needs to be. This often happens with first-time moms. Pain, stress, or sickness can also cause rough behavior. If your dog bites, pushes or steps on her puppies watch her carefully. A vet can check if something is wrong.
Why does my dog keep picking up her puppies?
Dogs pick up their puppies to move them to a safe spot. This is a natural behavior. But if she keeps moving them too much or drops them it may be stressed. Make her space calm, clean, and quiet. This helps her feel safe and settle down.
Final Thoughts
Why my dog keeps squishing her puppies? It can be scary to see your dog squish, hurt, or act rough with her puppies. But most of the time, it just needs some help and a safe place. A whelping box, quiet space and gentle support can make a big difference. Stay close watch how ;it behaves, and don’t wait to call your vet if something feels wrong. With care and time your dog can become a loving and gentle mom.
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