Week 2

The pups are starting to look and act like puppies instead of lumpy potatoes!  They are moving around, still dragging their bodies instead of actually walking; however, we are seeing signs of them trying hard to get up on all fours.  Make sure you check out our YouTube channel to see them starting to toddle.

The pups continue to be content, taking their cue from Mom.  They nurse well and all 3 are plump little fellows!  Weights range from 1-1.5 lbs.  ENS continues, they’ve had their first nail trims and all receive lots of cuddles!

In an unusual move (for my litters), all 3 boys opened their eyes on the same day!  At first, we just saw facial movements around their eyes.  Then it progressed to open slits to fully opened eyes.  Even though their eyes are officially open, they really can’t see.   Here’s a chart showing how puppy vision develops.

More pictures from this week are available here. The newest pictures are at the bottom of the page.

Coming soon:
*We expect the pups’ ears to open in the next few days.
*Picardy will take more frequent breaks, spending time away from the whelping box.
*They’ll be introduced to a potty grate and nest (for real) this week as Picardy spends time away from them.  We tried earlier in the week, but Picardy wanted them next to her and was not ready to let them sleep in a nest.
*Last day of ENS will be Monday.  It will be replaced with husbandry protocols such as brushing with a soft brush and handling their paws and head.
*They'll continue to be given time away from the box to practice toddling.
*Critical socialization period protocols will begin as soon as their ears open.
*Visitors will begin to come in for cuddle sessions.