Things You'll Need
- Dog treats
Instructions
Slowly approach the mother and the puppies she has just delivered and pet her while talking softly to her. She needs to know that you will not harm the puppies or her. She needs to trust you being so close to the puppies.
Pet the puppies while she watches. Pick each puppy up and then put it down right away. The mother will now know that you mean no harm to her puppies. The mother will still require attention while picking up the puppies and putting them back down.
Give the mother a treat and some extra loving because she let you near the puppies. She will associate this with love and trust you near her litter.
After a few days, begin picking up the puppy's one by one and cuddling with them while the mother watches. Talk to the puppy softly as you do the mother. If the mother is a little alarmed, give her a treat to reassure her.
Allow the mother to go outside and use the bathroom, get something to eat and play a little with you. When she returns to the puppies, she will see that they are still there and safe. This will help her adjust to leaving them for periods of exercise and to use the bathroom.