I have heard alot of breeders say that they let their females eat just one afterbirth which is enough to get the milk going. Some do not let their girls eat any at all and have no problems, I personally would just allow her to eat the first one. How much does your girl weigh? Have you had any x-rays done to see how many puppies to expect and to see the size just to make sure your girl will be able to deliver them safely.. Since this is her first litter I would do the x-rays they can be done after 56 days. My vet charges 46.00 for the x-rays and about the same for ultrasound. I would also get dewclaws done for the same reasons Kristi mentioned. I think the procedure shouldn't cost much I got my pups tail and dewclaws done for 8.50 per puppy. (not as bad as I thought) I don't think she will treat it like a toy since her motherly instinct should kick in once puppies are here, make sure you have her with u 24/7 close to her due date just to make sure she does good.
KristiC question I saw you do your own dewclaws/tail can you please let me know how you do it. I have seen it done but know people do it differntly. My e-mail is
jcavazos25@rgv.rr.com if you prefer to discuss this through e-mail?