Why does a mother dog kill her own puppies at 5 weeks old?

It's extremely rare for a mother dog to kill her own puppies at 5 weeks old. While there are some extreme cases where this might happen, it's usually a sign of a serious problem and not typical behavior.

Here are some potential reasons:

* Stress and Lack of Resources: If the mother dog is under extreme stress, lacking adequate food, water, or space, or if she's experiencing a sudden change in environment, she may become overwhelmed and resort to harmful behavior, including infanticide.

* Medical Conditions: A mother dog suffering from a medical condition like mastitis (inflammation of the mammary glands) or a neurological disorder may exhibit abnormal behavior, including aggression towards her puppies.

* Genetics and Breed: Some breeds of dogs have a higher predisposition towards aggression or maternal neglect. It's important to research a dog's breed history and temperament before bringing one into your home.

* First-Time Motherhood: First-time mothers can sometimes be less experienced in caring for their puppies, leading to accidental injury or neglect.

* Previous Negative Experiences: If a mother dog has had negative experiences with previous litters, such as a puppy dying, she may become overly protective or anxious and display aggressive behavior.

Important Note: If you witness a mother dog exhibiting aggressive behavior towards her puppies, immediately seek professional help from a veterinarian or a dog behaviorist. Do not attempt to intervene yourself, as this could be dangerous for you and the dog.

It's crucial to understand that this is a complex issue with multiple potential causes. A thorough assessment by a qualified professional is necessary to determine the root cause and develop appropriate solutions.