Here's why:
* Milk production: A dog's milk production is limited. While some dogs can produce enough milk for a large litter, 14 puppies is extremely demanding.
* Nutritional needs: Puppies grow incredibly fast and have high nutritional needs. A single mother dog wouldn't be able to provide all the calories and nutrients 14 puppies require for healthy growth.
* Stress: Caring for such a large litter can be extremely stressful for the mother dog, leading to exhaustion, health problems, and even aggression.
What can be done:
* Supplementation: If a mother dog is struggling to feed a large litter, a veterinarian may recommend supplementing with puppy formula.
* Foster care: In some cases, it may be necessary to find foster homes for some of the puppies to ensure they receive adequate care.
It's crucial to consult a veterinarian for advice on how to best care for a large litter of puppies.