We're Puppies After All

The puppies have emerged from their larvae stage and are now fully formed puppies. They have eyes, distinct faces, they can walk and squawk. Much to Stella’s chagrin they also have teeth. Momma has not been dissuaded yet, she still spends every night in the box with the pups, keeping them clean, fed and warm. It was fun coming home and putting on shorts and a tshirt, but since the puppies are now able to generate their own heat, we no longer maintain the apartment at 78 degrees.

With the pups eyes and ears open we have begun socializing in earnest. We try to put small obstacles in the box every day. We also make strange noises, though that is nothing unusual. The puppies have all responded bravely to their rapidly expanding world. They now stay awake and interact for a full 10 minutes before crashing for several hours.

This week was full of milestones for the puppies. They all had their first taste of puppy food and (surprise!) found it agreeable. They scarfed it all down and immediately began looking for more. I know these puppies are supposed to be on the small side when they grow up, but right now they are large and round, AKA fat.

All in all the pups have graduated to interesting. We can spend long periods of time watching them play and explore their world. Cross your fingers for warm weather this weekend so the pups can learn about the great outdoors! We’ll keep you posted.

The pups are starting to crawl all over Stella. They nibble on her ears, face and paws while she feigns sleep. She is so patient with them, never a cross word. I think that may change as they get older.

This is probably my favorite age with the puppies. They are big enough to have personalities and play, yet small enough that they are not making too big a mess. That will change soon, but I'm going to enjoy it while it lasts.

On the natural side of life, we heard loon calling this morning for the first time this year. Spring is on the way!