I use the blender and grind the Royal Canin baby dog at 4 weeks. If the babies are extremely tiny, I make a gruel. As they get teeth, I grind it less until they are on the whole kibble. I also have Mom's bowl of whole kibble there, but Mom also seems to like the ground. They also attack Mom's canned food with cottage cheese and Milk replacment that I give her.
Mom has a doggie door she can get away from them for periods of time, but I let Mom do all the weaning. At 8 weeks, I prop open the doggie door so they can also have access to the play area with Mom. It is really fun to watch them learn how to play and how Mom enjoys her kids. I only take Mom away if she starts getting naughty to the kids.. more than just growling at them to teach them manners. Most Moms will enjoy the babies until they go to new homes. I let Mom handle it and there is no stress.
__________________  Deb Sillers
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