Why does my female dog softly nibble on her babies snout?

It's great that you're observing this behavior! Your female dog is exhibiting a natural and important instinct – grooming and stimulating her puppies. Here's a breakdown of why she does this:

* Hygiene and Cleanliness: A mother dog licks her puppies to keep them clean. This helps remove dirt, debris, and excess fluids, keeping them healthy.

* Stimulation: The licking and nibbling acts as a gentle form of stimulation. This encourages the puppies to urinate and defecate, which the mother dog then cleans up.

* Bonding and Comfort: Licking is a way for mothers to bond with their pups and provide comfort. It releases endorphins that have calming effects for both the mother and her babies.

* Positioning: The mother dog might use her mouth to nudge her puppies into more comfortable positions for nursing or resting.

Important Note: While gentle nibbling is normal, you should be aware of any signs of excessive or aggressive behavior. If the nibbling seems forceful or causes any distress to the puppies, consult with a veterinarian to ensure there aren't underlying issues.

This behavior is a wonderful example of the natural instincts of motherhood in dogs!