Bitch wont leave pups, eat or drink day after whelping

Question
Hi, just wondered if you can give any advice about what is normal. Our Coton de Tulear bitch gave birth to her first set of pups yesterday - she had 5 all seem very healthy and big. She hasn't yet been to the toilet other than to wee in her whelping box in the night. Also she won't eat or drink anything, and is very very protective of her new babies. Should I be concerned that she won't leave them or eat and drink yet, or will that happen naturally when she feels more confident and at ease? I just don't want her to run out of milk!! Any advice would be welcome.
Thanks
Sara

Answer
Hi Sara,

Thank you for writing to me about your new puppies and their dame.

The whelping box should have been placed in a situation where the mom feels completely safe and protected.  If it's in a place that gets foot traffic then she is not going to endanger her new pups and leave them.  Remember, this all stems back to primal responses..life in the wild.

If you can place a screen or close a door to give her some privacy and protection, keep other animals and children/adults away from her and place her food and water close by, I am sure she will eat and drink when she feels it's safe.

She cannot go without water..she needs it to produce milk and she also needs the energy of food to produce milk as it drains a lot of calories.

Please check with your vet and get his advice on the situation.

Best,
Shelley Davis