This is a sort of "log"... to keep track of the litter's development and milestones.
Day 1-8 puppies pretty much sleep 20 hours of the day, and eat... eyes and ears sealed shut, looking a bit like a guinnea pig. They move around by working hard and wiggling and crawling on their bellies.
Day 2- these pups were so big at birth, they had their tails and dews done (usually done at day 3-5) because the tails were already so thick! The Dr. didn't want to have to put in too many stitches. The pups are a bit uncomfortable for the day, a teeny bit more whiney than normal, but totally oblivious again by the next day. The nice thing is since the pups are so little, they heal super quick and are basically un-aware of what happened.
Day 8- Eyes open :) They are all grey and cloudy (like a human baby) and they can't see much, but they look totally different now! As they mature and develop, they eyes get clearer, and the color darkens (turns dark grey at first, then to brown)
Day 12 - some pups in the litter are finally pushing up and trying to walk... hard to hold all that weight up (they have been growing a couple ounces a day since birth!). They look all rickety, but super cute. They are also starting to cut their teeth (molars) and soon I feel sorry for momma, cuz those sharp little baby front teeth are gonna be there.
Day 14- By now all pups are up and very wobbly walking on their stubby legs... getting better and faster at getting around. Some, are already trying to climb the edge of the whelping box, even though they aren't super good at the walking thing yet. I see trouble around the corner :) Also by now, they are vocalizing more. Little barks and yips, howls to try and get mom to come back, growls and grumbles. Learning all about communication.
Day 16- First interactions (besides puppy pile) with litter mates. They are starting to push each other around a little more, growl and grumble at each other... and suck on each others ears and faces. DARLING!
