Again ... I echo Redy... I've seen too many crushed pups. One I bred to had her pups out of the pen I lent her and into a wading pool. Crushed pup ! Even with a whelping pen I lost one.... had just changed the bedding and Mom got back in too quickly her elbow must have hit a pup ... and I was there with her !! As to Doggish's comments ... sure, it's a natural thing ,,, but when you have a beloved female and a wanted healthy litter, you don't take chances.!! One of my pups was breach , and I know had I not been there to help , pup and maybe Mom would have died. Also, I always made sure that the engorged was nursed. When really full, some pups pass it up for a more grabable teat .... I even hand expressed at this time. I learned this only from nursing my first baby... I was reaching a mastitis stage. The next 3 weeks are up to the Mom, but it's up to you to make sure all is well . I really can't remember if you or someone else was ordering the book ... I feel it's a must for you !