Whelping and caring for French Bulldog puppies require careful attention and knowledge. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to professionally whelp French Bulldog puppies from the newborns' first day home until 8 weeks of age, as well as how to care for the mother after a C-section. Please note that breeding dogs and caring for newborn puppies can be complex and challenging. It's essential to consult with a veterinarian and experienced breeders for guidance and assistance throughout the process.

**Before the Puppies Arrive:**

1. Prepare a whelping area: Set up a clean, warm, and quiet area for the mother and puppies. Use a whelping box with high sides to contain the puppies securely. Line the box with soft, washable bedding.

2. Gather supplies: Here's a supply list for whelping and caring for French Bulldog puppies:
   - Whelping box with bedding
   - Heating pad or heat lamp for warmth
   - Thermometer
   - Clean Blankets and washcloths
   - Bulb syringe or nasal aspirator for clearing airways
   - Puppy milk replacer and nursing bottles (in case supplementation is needed) we recommend Puppy Bac
   - Digital scale to monitor puppies' weight gain
   - Puppy food (transitioning from milk to solid food)
   - Food and water bowls
   - Collars and identification tags
   - Toys and socialization items

3. Consult with a veterinarian: Prior to the whelping process, consult with a veterinarian to ensure the mother is in good health and discuss any potential complications or concerns. Follow their advice and establish a plan for emergency situations.

**Whelping Process:**

1. Monitor the mother: As the due date approaches, monitor the mother's behavior and look for signs of impending labor. These signs may include restlessness, nesting behavior, loss of appetite, drop in body temperature, heavy panting, and contractions.

2. After C Section is complete, make sure you have a way to transport your new puppies home and that they are kept warm. We recommend a portable incubator.

3. Monitor and weigh the puppies: Keep track of each puppy's weight using a digital scale. Healthy puppies should gain weight consistently. You should at minimum weigh the puppy weekly. Consult a veterinarian if you notice any abnormal weight loss or signs of illness. Newborn puppies must eat every 2 to 3 hours for their first 2 weeks.

4. French bulldog puppies will sometimes have milk come out through their nose. They will need a bulb or nasal aspirator to keep their nasal passage clear

5. Provide warmth: Maintain a warm environment for the puppies using a heating pad or heat lamp. The temperature should be around 85-90°F (29-32°C) during the first week and gradually decrease to around 75°F (24°C) by the fourth week. Puppies will not eat if they are not warm.

6. Ensure proper nutrition: The mother should nurse the puppies exclusively for the first few weeks. Ensure she has access to fresh water and a high-quality diet suitable for nursing dogs. Consult with a veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. We recommend Oxy Momma from Breeder Edge

7. Puppies must be dewormed at weeks 2, 4, 6, and 8. We recommend pyrantel to be used as a dewormer.

8. By week 4, you should be introducing your puppies to puppy food. You can take puppy kibble and let it soak in water so that your kibble is soft enough to mash. You can also put soft kibble in a food processor to make mush.

9. Socialize the puppies: Introduce gentle handling and socialization experiences to the puppies from an early age. This includes exposing them to different sights, sounds, smells, and gentle human interaction to promote positive development.

**Caring for the Mother After a C-Section:**

1. Monitor the incision: Keep a close eye on the incision site for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, discharge, or excessive licking. If you notice any abnormalities, consult your veterinarian.

2. When the mother has been under anesthesia she will not be herself for the first 24 to 48 hours. She might not accept puppies right away. Give mother time to be back to her normal self.

3. Limit activity: Restrict the mother's physical activity for the first few weeks to allow proper healing. Avoid stairs, jumping, and strenuous exercise.

4. Provide a comfortable space: Ensure the mother has a quiet, comfortable area to rest and nurse her puppies. The whelping box should be easily accessible and located in a quiet part of the house.

5. Ensure the mother has access to fresh water at all times. She may not want to eat after surgery but she will mostly drink a lot of water until she feels good enough to eat again. Monitor appetite and water intake: Encourage the mother to eat a nutritious diet suitable for nursing dogs. If you notice a significant decrease in appetite or any signs of dehydration, consult your veterinarian.

6. Administer medications as prescribed: If your veterinarian prescribes any medications, follow the instructions carefully and administer them as directed.

7. Two weeks after C Section mother's incision should be healed but she should still have limited activity.

Remember, this guide provides a general overview, but it's crucial to work closely with a veterinarian and experienced breeders who can provide personalized guidance based on the specific needs of your French Bulldog and her puppies.