Size of whelping box - Page 3

I prefer mine to be outside born natural and on the ground.   The dog house is 3x6 and hollowed in the middle like a nest.
That keeps the pups in the middle and not under the bitch.   She can stretch out, or lay with her head against the sides for support.  

A kiddy pool is too slick, a light is a bad idea, and smaller is better than large.

Dogs naturally dig a nest and move in a circle as the deliver.  Earth can be warmer or cooler than the outside temperature and stay a more consistant temperature.  I use straw or sometimes cedar shavings but the bitch doesn't like it and will dig it back away from the center. 

I had a winter litter this year, I don't plan on doing it again.   But the pups are strong and healthy, ready for anything.
Hardy.

The have a clean sense of smell and less stress than one raised indoors.

At least stay away from kiddy pools and heat lamps please.   And remember a smaller space feels safer to a dog.

 

Born outside...OMG, I could never! I like to cuddle with them too much, and our cold Northern temperatures would cause me to worry wayyy too much!!

My boxes are both 4 X 4. Works great for big and small litters. 4 X 5 might be better so "I" fit better....but as Molly said, too hard to move around.

No Molly, you MAY NOT get a new whelping box...that one just has too many memories!!! Refurbish it!!!

I will say, the BEST invention, is those color LCD baby monitors!!! I can keep an eye on them all the time without having to disturb anyone. 

Kiddie pool? I agree, unless you cut carpet to fit, I cannot imagine fighting to keep the bedding in place and from puppies getting tangled up in it.