Whats it like to whelpand raise puppies?
‘Whelping’ is the term used to describe the process of birthing puppies. It is an exciting time. And although I have been blessed to rarely run into serious problems during a whelping, they are not uncommon and I am always nervous as the time approaches! As with human babies, Labradoodle or Goldendoodle puppies are usually born in the middle of the night. The day before whelping the mama-to-be is usually restless and panting, trying to settle into the area where she will be having the pups. It’s important for a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle breeder to really keep an eye on her at this time. A fellow breeder I know once had a pregnant dog escape and give birth to the first couple of puppies under a shed! Once active labor starts there’s not much time to be nervous. The mom starts pushing and usually the first pup appears within a few minutes. It is born in a sac, which an experienced mom will remove with her teeth. A first-time mom may need some help until she gets with the program! Left
