My Yorkie pom just had pups

by Elle

My yorkie pom just had pups and she keeps leaving her pups to be with the family. If I make her lay down for feedings she will, but does not stay for long.

She also does sleep with them when the house is quiet. Is this normal?

How long does she need to stay with them for the majority of the time? What can I do to make her stay with them?


Hi Elle
Some dogs are more attentive moms than others, but nature generally makes sure that the puppies get what they need.

They will most likely cry and complain when she leaves them, and if they do that she will generally be drawn back to them. If they don't make a fuss when she leaves, they're content and are obviously getting enough milk.

If it's a small litter, she will be able to satisfy their needs fairly easily. Large litters (7 or more puppies) are much more demanding and the mom rarely gets a break for several weeks.

If there's a lot of action going on in your house and she's used to being a part of it, she will feel compelled to join you. I would suggest that if she and her puppies are not already settled in a quiet, out-of-the-way part of the house, that you try moving them to one. She may accept that, or she may get agitated and try to take them back to the original location. It depends on her personality and stress levels. If she's spending time with them when all else is quiet, a bit more peace may help.

You really can't MAKE her stay with the puppies, short of locking her in a room with them. But this would more than likely just make her anxious and stressed which isn't good for her or the pups. I\

I would give it a few days and see if everything settles down. It probably will as she adjusts to motherhood and a routine emerges. If you're still worried though, or the puppies seem distressed, please talk to your vet and see if he can help or offer any more advice.

Best of luck with your litter.