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Why is my new pit bull mom crying and not staying with puppies?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | American Pit Bull Terrier | Female | unspayed | 2 years and 1 month old | 50 lbs

i have a 2 yr old pit bull that has 5 day old puppies and all of sudden this morning she wants me to stay in the n"nursery" with her she wont stay with them if i leave her she cries and then she sits next to me a cries she only seems content if i stay in there with her and i cannot i work from home...any idea why she may be acting this way? the puppies seem fine

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Lauren M. Jones, VMD

Answered By Lauren M. Jones, VMD

Veterinarian

Published on June 29th, 2017

Gemma's behavior is a bit unusual. If this is her first litter, she may be lonely and adapting to the exhaustion of caring for newborn puppies. You can try leaving her with one of your dirty shirts to leave your smell with her, as well as trying a calming pheromone diffuser (here is one example: https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/dog/dog-health-and-wellness/dog-calming-aids/comfort-zone-diffuser-with-dap-for-dogs). When you are home, try to provide Gemma with some extra attention and see if these strategies help her to cope. Also keep a close eye on all of the puppies to assure that they are nursing regularly, gaining weight and thriving. I hope that all goes well!
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