Warmth: Puppies have a much higher surface area to volume ratio than adult dogs, which means they lose heat more quickly. Huddling together helps them conserve body heat and stay warm.
Comfort: Puppies are social creatures and they find comfort in being close to their littermates and their mother. Huddling provides a sense of security and belonging.
Protection: Huddling together can help puppies feel safer from potential threats. When they are all huddled together, they can better protect themselves from predators or other dangers.
Nursing: If the puppies are still nursing, they may huddle around their mother to nurse. This allows them to easily access her milk and get the nourishment they need.
Communication: Puppies communicate with each other through body language and vocalizations. Huddling together allows them to communicate more easily and effectively.
As puppies grow older, they may still huddle together occasionally, but it is not as common as it is when they are young.