Whelping box?
 

Firstly, weclome to YT! Your baby is gorgeous!
I don't use a whelping box so can't help you with designs- I use a Moses basket to begin with, the into a plastic indoor rabbit hutch set beside my bed (first with the plastic-not mesh- lid off then as they get bigger putting it on) so momma can get in and out, then they go into a puppy playpen- made by cheeko.... So there are plenty of options!

Have you read here yet about getting X-rays done to tell you how many to expect? I have just had a litter of 7, and there was no way I would have been expecting that! If she is getting so uncomfy already it may be a larger litter...

And do you have someone who can help you when the time ces? Remember she will need help; it's up to you to tear sacs, cut cords, clear airways, which I'm sure you know what with having the whelp kit! Just double checking!

Just feel the need to add, you will get many opinions on here, but all with the best of intentions for your baby girl- so please bear that in mind and don't go on the defensive- we want to help things go smoothly for you, her and her babies!

How old and how big is she? Her size will not only impact on the whelp and nursing, but may also impact what whelping box design to go for...

Double post, but the 2nd was better!

My phone hates me and edited the wrong double post- I had added to it saying about the plastic vs wood...
IMO, plastic would be far more sanitary than wood, but you could still use the same design, just with plastic instead... I'm sure there are loads of people who pretty much make whelping boxes in their sleep that could help you edit it from wood to plastic!

I don't use a whelping box, so I'm no help with that.

I am concerned from reading your post, however. If your counting is right, I wouldn't expect your girl to be so large as to be miserable at this point. The pups do most of their growing in the last 3 weeks so she will get much bigger.

How big is Leia normally? Have you seen a vet yet? Do you have any idea if she can safely carry a litter? You need to know this as you don't want to endanger her. Any pregnancy carries a risk, but some girls just shouldn't have babies, either due to size, structure, health, etc.

I suggest you take her in ASAP to get a vet's assessment of her condition.

Ok to answer questions :)

Leia is normally 7lbs, she's on the large size and the father is 8lbs. Yes, we've been to the vet twice (once right after it happened, and then again on Tuesday the 22nd. Dr. Addison, here in our town.. highly recommended). He said she looks wonderful, and I'm doing everything right (her diet is good, shes gaining just enough weight, etc). He said that we could do an x-ray once she hits about 8 weeks and should be able to tell my counting spines and skulls how many babies to expect and he is on call if anything were to happy that weekend that she is due.

Leia looks miserable to me, because she normally has an amazing temperament, very happy and outgoing [loves car rides, going to the beach] and now seems to be more reserved and quiet. She is 2 years old, and in otherwise perfect health.

My timing is right on the nose because it happened during my nieces party which was held on Feb 19th - I had to lay on the floor with her to keep her relaxed during the period of time when they were tied together because I supposed it freaked her out enough to want to run, and there were no other dogs around her before, or after that.

I hope that answers everything.

But, the whelping box. Seems that plastic rules over wood due to sanitation issues? I'd rather her be clean and safe that have something that is cute, I was thinking of the box in regards to long term, but I suppose that is right about needing to keep it clean.

When thinking wood, my fiance and I were sketching plans of doing a 3'x3' area, that the puppies can sort of grow into as the time progresses.

Glad to hear that Leia checked out fine at the vet. Not sure what you've researched, but I always put this link up for expecting Moms. Dog Breeding and Canine Reproduction by Debbie Jensen. Dog Breeding and Whelping guide for dog breeders. It's a great site that has lots of useful info.

Good luck on the whelping box. I've seen some members post pics of their set-up here before. Maybe one will see your thread or you might do a search on this site. I'm useless for that as I have my girls whelp their pups in my computer room and I just set up an area in the corner there. Works for me, but most do use some type of box.

Thank you! I'll check that link out.

We decided to go with the plastic container and found a plastic "pen" type thing at walmart for $50. So we'll just transition them over once they get to "big" for the plastic container. Just really thought of the whole sanitation issue.

I appreciate all the advice. Thanks again.

Congrats on your upcoming litter & for researching on all you can do for a safe whelp for your Leia. I have had 3 litters so far (with my 4th on the way in a couple of weeks), and each time is as exciting and nerve-wracking all over again.
I see that you have decided to go with the plastic container & x-pen......this is what I was going to suggest to you. I have used an under the bed plastic tub for each of my litters and it has worked out well. It is easy to clean and when not in use, it stores blankets, towels, rugs, and such for the next time. Ive attached a link to a picture of my set up from one of the earlier pregnancies we've had.
Good luck to you and Leia.............keep us posted!

http://www.yorkietalk.com/forums/2748894-post201.html