1 Week Old
Wednesday, April 27, 2016 at 5:52PM 
Can you believe her beauties are 1 week old already? Jeannie has a system. She goes in when she is full of milk. They eat, she cleans them and then she cools herself off on the floor. They want for nothing. Every once in awhile one is behind her and it's as if she says - well I am here. Come around the front. I help her but I have to laugh. I think she counts on me and that's okay.
They look so huge next to the Spice and Roxie pups.
At birth, puppies are blind and deaf, unable to regulate body temperature, or even urinate or defecate on their own. Mom has to stimulate them to go.
From birth, puppies are able to use their sense of smell and touch, which helps them root about the nest to find their mother's scent-marked breasts. The first milk the mother produces, called colostrum, is rich in antibodies that provide passive immunity and help protect the babies from disease during these early weeks of life.
All their energy, at this point is funneled into growing. They actually eat then sleep. Their only time awake is usually when feeding.
But the 2nd to 3rd week is when the fun begins. That is when eyes open and their world changes. They become aware of their environment and they become more active.
They are also good at maneuvering from here to there when they need to.
Here are the videos:
Reader Comments (7)
What beauties.
Wow, 1 week old already, 5 more till we can hold them in our arms. I love when they cuddle, but also when they are looking for their own space to sleep. Jeannie is so sweet checking on them, a smart and wonderful mommy. Cannot wait for them to open the eyes, to move those fatties little legs ...... the fun to begin.
The Mr Stretch video made me giggle. The little gal at one point kicks Mr. Stretch in the mouth as if to say " stop moving, I'm trying to sleep".
They really are beautiful. Jeannie is so clever and she sounds organized. Thanks for explaining Darlah.
Beauties for sure. Mr. Stretch sure loves to stretch. So funny to watch.
I loved the Mr. Stretch video - and seeing how calm and peaceful Jeannie is with her puppies. Lovely. The puppies are thriving, and it is really interesting to know what is in store for the next weeks because you provide us with such great information, Darlah. Thanks.
Mr. Stretch is practicing his Pilates leg lifts. Good boy!