after whelping question

Question
Hi, First Im glad that I found this website. Ive found alot of my questions answered by reviewing other responses. Thank You. My golden  had 9 puppies on 4/26/2011 =. She did a wonderful job and all pups are healthy but Im worried about the mom. She is carrying toys of hers around and crying and seems to still be nesting( digging outside and stratching at rug) Ive since taking the toys away and we will try putting water or feces in holes she s digging. and she is also very protective  she will not let any  male visitors in to see pups.  Kids and females are fine..wierd?? also tried  making a little tent over whelping box to see if she feels a little more secure.Please advise  Thank you, Kathy

Answer
Hi Kathy

Did she receive oxytocin to ensure all the afterbirth and placenta's were discharge?

Second give her St. John's Wort, a capsule a day will help calm and focus her.  What she's doing is looking for a place to move her pups to.  

Also it would be benefical to rotate the pups. Split the litter and give her 4 for an hour then the other 5 for an hour.  Place the sleeping pups in a warming box (a Rubbermaid container works), this way she'll have pups to clean and care for and will take her mind off moving.

It's very common for a female to be nervous or protective around certain people.  Especially if the male is large, wearing a cap or has a deep voice.  The St. John's Wort will help with that too.

Good luck