How do I know the mother dog will let me touch her new born puppies?

Never assume that a mother dog will let you touch her newborn puppies. Even the gentlest of dogs can become protective and aggressive around their young. This is especially true for first-time mothers, who may be feeling particularly anxious and stressed.

Here are some tips to help you approach a mother dog and her newborn puppies safely:

Never approach a mother dog and her puppies without her permission. If the dog is not familiar with you, start by slowly approaching her from a distance and speaking to her in a calm, soothing voice. Allow her to sniff you and get to know you before attempting to touch her puppies.

Avoid sudden movements or loud noises. These can startle the mother dog and cause her to react aggressively.

If the mother dog seems anxious or aggressive, do not attempt to touch her puppies. Give her some space and try again later.

Once the mother dog has allowed you to approach her puppies, be gentle and respectful. Do not handle the puppies too much, and be sure to support their heads and bodies.

Be mindful of the mother dog's body language. If she begins to growl, bark, or show other signs of aggression, back away slowly and give her some space.

If you are ever bitten by a dog, seek medical attention immediately.