...pup sizes in utero
 

I'm curious to know how many breeders have experienced a great disparity in pup sizes later 'in utero'?

Our Sassy was carrying 6 pups, but early radiographs didn't give us cause for alarm. The pups appeared to be growing at a normal rate.

I was surprised at the size of the first 4 pups born, only 1.5 to 2 ozs.! I am used to 5, 6 and 7 oz. pups. Sassy is of average size, 6#'s. The stud is only 5#'s. Her continued labouring with the 5th pup made us anxious, so we called the animal hospital at 3 am. They told us to walk her to see if she progressed and wait 4 hours before bringing her in. Really? 4 more hours of hard labor? I thought going another 1.5 to 2 hrs. would be dangerous. We'll never call them again.

Our NEW vet is a gem and took her right away. He managed to catch a little foot in the birth canal and remove the pup, but unfortunately it wasn't alive. With the discharge preceeding him, I expected as much. An Xray showed the remaining 6th pup taking up a good portion of the uterus. An emergency C-section was done to remove the dead pup and to save our Sassy. She was spayed at the same time.

Needless to say, these past few days have been difficult. I believe 3 of Sassy's pups will survive. They are active and beginning to nurse on their own. I am supplimenting them all every few hours and working especially hard to save the 4th. He is so tiny and little interest in suckling. I am trying the 'liver remedy' I saw here...waiting to see if it helps him. Send our little guy good thoughts and extra prayers. He'll need them. Thanks :animal-pa

Sending my prayers.

I have heard the size of the pups are determined by the mother. You have to know your lines behind your dogs also. With the bigger stud I got 4oz pups with the smaller I got 6-7oz. I do know that the bitches line is known for larger pups though. My smaller stud further back in his line is larger yorkies. So that could have contributed to it also.

Sending prayers and good vibes your way!
I would guess that the 1st two eggs were fertilized before the other 4.
Good Luck with your babies!
BTW.. Good job finding another Vet. You were right! It would have been a nightmare outcome waiting as long as the 1st Vet recommended!

Thanks Melissa and Deb!
I appreciate the response and well wishes. The very littlest guy is hanging in there. I won't be taking him in with the other three tomorrow for tails and dews. Even though he isn't suckling, I don't want to take him away from Mom's warmth and kisses. Plus, I also realize it may be just a matter of time now. I'm not giving up on him, but being realistic that his chances aren't good. I am grateful the three siblings are gaining weight and beginning to act like normal pups should. Sassy is recovering well...she's tired, but eating and enjoying the extra goodies presented to her! :love:

Praying for the little guy. Have you talk to your vet about tubing him. Alot of people will not do it but I have when everything else fails.

It sounds like a water puppy !

Yes, that is what the vet said, a 'water puppy'. I'm just happy Sassy is doing well now and 3 of the pups are thriving. Little 'Charlie' is hanging on...making tiny bit of progress with sucking reflex. I'm keeping my fingers, eyes and toes crossed that he survives. :animal36

That is great news !
You just keep up the good work you started and sure it will yield rewarding results. Glad to hear everyone is doing good !
XOXO

Thank you so much!! :love:

How is the little guy today?

Hi there! Thank you for asking. I've posted some photos and an update on the 'Little Charlie' thread. He's still hanging in there. =)