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Originally Posted by FlDebra  I think it usually does not bother them but I have seen both ways. Some dogs do seem to go through their own version of post-partum depression after their pups are taken away. My Sadie actually cried & whimpered after her first pup left the house (and it was after 12 weeks). She seemed sort of down when the last pup left. But it did not last long. Some seem to be oblivious and don't mind at all. I even had a dachshund that went through two false pregnancies where she gathered up her smaller toys and put them in my closet and kept a mother's watch for 2 weeks! She got upset the first time when I took them away & moved her out of my closet, trying to get her to act normal again. She moped around for another couple of weeks before getting back to normal. Second time she did it, I just let her decide on the time and she did not stay depressed when she came out of the closet on her own.
She might miss the pups or the company of other dogs anyway. She also might be a little tired. I think even a dog will go, go, go when the need is there (just like human moms!) and then when they are not needed 24/7, they finally get to let down defenses and go into rest mode. She might also have some hormone changes as no further nursing is going on.
I would take her for extra walks, try to do more physical things -- fetch, running in the yard together, maybe teach some new tricks. Things that will occupy mind & body. That should help (unless she really is tired, & then she may resist additional physical activity). Maybe take her to Petsmart & let her pick out a couple of new toys. Mine LOVE new toys!  |
Ah that is kinda sad but cute.
I have always wondered the same if Mom's miss their pups once they leave the nest.