Squish Risk?

Question
Hi, my shih tzu gave birth to 8 healthy pups late Sunday. All seem to be doing very well. I have been sleeping beside her and the pups since and am wondering when is it safe to leave her alone at night with them. I have heard horror stories about moms that lay on their pups and squish them. She is very careful when entering her whelping area (crate 36 x24) but with so many pups spread out I am terrified she will step or lay on one. Any advice? Thank you

Answer
Hi Kelly. I usually stay with the new mom constantly for the first week, just to see how she's going to do, and to make sure that she doesn't lay/step on a puppy. If you have to, set up a cot in the whelping room, or bring her box to your bedroom. You have to get some sleep, but need to watch them as well. This is your best bet. A breeder friend of mine sets up a baby monitor in the whelping room so she can hear the puppies crying. However, she's a super light sleeper. If you're like me, and could sleep through a tornado, then staying close to the whelping box is a good idea for at least the first week. Good luck!