labrador retriever

Question
Hi my lab has 15 day old labrador puppies and previously wouldn't leave them alone but is now looking to spend more and more time away from the pups and with the family.  Is this normal and if so how long and often can she be away from the pups at this stage for her own "free time"? All pups are healthy and strong so I think she is feeding them enough.

Answer
As the pups get their legs, and eyes/ears open, they start to become a tad more self-sufficient.  Mom can be allowed to spent time away from the babies as long as she gets in there enough times to feed them.  It is normal.  As to how long can she stay away, you'll have to judge that.  Let her be out a couple hours, then spend some time in there.  If the pups aren't eating then let her out again.