Why Would a Mother Dog Push Its Newborn Away?

- Lack of Maternal Instincts: Some primiparous (first-time) mothers may not have fully developed maternal instincts and may not recognize or properly care for their puppies.

- Stress or Anxiety: Stressful situations, such as an unfamiliar environment, overcrowding, or loud noises, can lead to a mother dog feeling anxious or overwhelmed, which can impact her ability to care for her puppies.

- Medical Conditions: A mother dog experiencing discomfort or illness may not have the energy to properly care for her puppies.

- Rejecting a Particular Puppy: In rare cases, a mother dog may reject specific puppies, often due to health issues or developmental abnormalities.

- Mastitis or Engorgement: When the mother dog's mammary glands become engorged with milk or infected with mastitis, it can cause discomfort and pain, leading to her pushing away the puppies.

- Inadequate Nutrition: If a mother dog does not receive adequate nutrition during pregnancy and lactation, it can impact her ability to produce sufficient milk and properly care for her puppies.