How to Move Puppies from the Nest

Dogs usually choose a safe, warm place to give birth to their puppies and raise them until they are old enough to start being independent. However, sometimes dogs choose unsuitable places to give birth, which puts their litter at risk. If this is the case, you may have to move the puppies to somewhere more suitable.

Things You'll Need

  • Whelping box
  • Heat mats
  • Towels
  • Thermometer
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Locate a new area for the puppies to be. Ideally, this should be a room in your house. The room should be relatively quiet, so the dog can feel safe with her puppies in there.

    • 2

      Set up a whelping box. This should be a box big enough for the mother to fit with her puppies. Cut down one side of the box so the mother can get in and out, ideally without allowing the puppies out.

    • 3

      Fill the whelping box with heat pads and towels. Read the instructions on the heat pads to see how to use them - different brands have different instructions. Make sure they are set up correctly. The box should be warm and inviting. Also provide food and water for the mother.

    • 4

      Measure the temperature of the room and the whelping box. The puppies need temperatures of about 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Try to avoid having a cold floor if possible - lay down some towels to make it less cold if the floor is not carpeted.

    • 5

      Look at where the puppies are situated. If they are inside a moveable container or box, you can carry them in that. If they are not, you will need to gently put the puppies in a box to move them to the room. You will also need someone to walk your dog behind you, unless she is very well-trained.

    • 6

      Pick up the puppies and carefully put them in the moving box. Talk to the mother throughout and keep her company. Let her see that you are not hurting the babies.

    • 7

      Carry the puppies into the room. Allow the mother to follow - if she does not automatically, have someone available to walk her to the room.

    • 8

      Settle the pups in the whelping box and invite the mother over. Close the room door if possible. Give the mother lots of fuss and show her that her babies are here. Encourage her to lie down in the whelping box and lick her babies. Sit with your dog until you are sure she is responding to the puppies - when they get hungry, they should get noisy, and the mother should lie down to let them feed.