We started the weaning process a couple of nights ago by introducing the pups to homemade goat’s milk formula, and have been feeding this to them for one evening meal per day. The next step is to introduce a second formula meal and add a small amount of their dehydrated raw food (Honest Kitchen) to one of the meals, which may happen tonight before bed. Weaning them gradually is best. It is easier on the puppies and lessens the risk of the mom developing mastitis. It also allows time for her milk production to adjust to the new schedule. Of course, Stella’s attitude can change suddenly when they cut teeth, and we also need to be prepared for that. Because of the size of the pups, Stella has now taken to standing up to nurse them. The litter now weighs several pounds more than she does. I’m still in awe of her, since she’s basically caring for the equivalent of two Westie litters!
We set up the pen for them in a completely new way this time, and I think it is helping with potty training. The pups’ potty area is set up in a large wire crate (Great Dane sized) with the side door off for access. To this, we attached the exercise pen so they have a “room” of sorts to relieve themselves in. With the first litter, we had hooked two pens together and designated a corner for their potty, but the pups would end up rolling around on the pee pads and making a mess. This new system has kept the pen much cleaner, and I think is better at teaching them to go in one designated place. Yellow, Blue and Light Green boys already seem to have it down pat, and the others are definitely getting there.
The puppies are so adorable now, and have really started to develop their personalities. Most have had their first set of teeth start to cut through, and all are busy chewing on each other’s noses, tails, legs, and the occasional toy. Time stands still when you play with puppies. Before I know it, I have been sitting there for an hour and a half enjoying the puppy breath and letting them crawl all over me.
Tomorrow will be the 4-1/2 week photo shoot, and hopefully the pictures will turn out better this week! I’ll do my best to get them posted tomorrow instead of Sunday.
