We have been lucky in that we have been 'led by the hand' through the mating and raring of pups. We had both our girls on 'Breeding Terms', and are most grateful for the kind assistance of Sandra & Maureen of Pepperhill and Pamela Bennett of Watchwood.

In our experience, raring pups is a continuing learning curve, many would say to leave the mother to do the job. But I think it is necessary to be on hand to help things along if needs be. (The first thing is to have your VETS telephone number to hand).

There are so many things that can go wrong at birth and there is always the chance of a weak pup. I have spent hours nursing sickly pups, (including trips to the Vet). It seems that some pups are destined not to survive, regardless of our efforts. Make sure you give the pups a good inspection as soon as you can, just in case of defects (such as an extra dew claw). 

After the first few days they do not take to much 'human' effort. Some breeders just leave things to nature, but it is hard to resist the temptation to ensure all get equal suckling. At 11/14 days the eyes open and then the fun starts.

Its important to ensure worming, the pups are prone to worms and they continually re-infect each other. Once you have your new puppy it should be wormed again.