Hi:
The only difference you will find between your Yorkie bitch and the larger breeds you've witnessed whelping before is that they are much more susceptible to cold temperatures and drafts. They are so tiny and can't hold their body heat at all for about the first three days. It is imperative that you keep them warm until they mature to about 3 weeks when they can begin to control their own body temp.
I have a heat lamp that I turn on them when mum is out to potty for the first three weeks. The whelping box should be around 80-85 degrees or so. The puppies should feel warm and toasty to the touch.
Our girl has been a superb Mom and didn't require any assistance at all. I like to help them out of the sack and dry them off, I think just because I'm so anxious to meet them. We do Ttouch on her while she's pregnant and I feel like I already know the personalities of the puppies before they arrive and I just can't wait to see them.
Getting excited for you. Let us know.
CJ |