Meet Mia-Bean & Baxter 🐕🐕
Say hello to Mia~Bean and Baxter!
Mia~Bean (or just Mia):
- Date of Birth: February 5, 2020 (4 years old)
- Breed: Short-haired, all-white Jack Russell Terrier
- Markings: Tan markings on her ears and around her eyes, with additional tan spots near her hind area.
Baxter:
- Date of Birth: Unknown, but estimated to be 9 years old
- Breed: Short-haired, all-white Jack Russell Terrier
- Markings: A tan face with hints of black and black spots scattered across his body.
Mia's Time becoming a Mom!
In 2021, Miss Mia~Bean experienced the joy of becoming a mother for the very first time.
Initially, the vision was to establish a breeding and training business exclusively for Jack Russell Terriers. However, as time passed, those plans evolved and were eventually set aside.
If there’s one thing I’ve learned throughout this journey, it’s that breeding is anything but simple. It comes with unexpected challenges, even when everything seems to be going according to plan.
Unpredictable situations can arise at any moment, making it essential to be financially prepared to provide the necessary veterinary care when needed.
Just like people, dogs can encounter sudden complications, which makes breeding a responsibility that demands thoughtfulness, commitment, and a deep sense of care.
Now, meet our delightful Jack Russell family: Dad (Baxter) on the right, Mom (Mia) in the center, and their two lovable pups, Tucker (their son) and Ava (their daughter).
Mia~Beans first litter **Singleton Pup**
Mia's First Litter: A Joyous Milestone!
We are overjoyed to bring you along on this exciting and heartwarming journey!
A Perfect Match: Mia and Baxter’s Union
August 7, 2021: Mated at 7:05 PM, remained locked until 7:54 PM.
August 8, 2021: Mated at 2:55 PM, remained locked until 3:17 PM.
August 9, 2021: Mated at 9:15 PM, remained locked until 9:45 PM.
August 10, 2021: Mated at 5:40 PM, remained locked until 5:51 PM.
August 11, 2021: Mated at 7:20 PM, remained locked until 7:45 PM.
Keep following along as we eagerly await the arrival of Mia’s very first litter!
Meet Miss **AVA**
This is Mia’s third heat cycle. We gave it a try during her second, but things didn’t work out as planned. Well, they say the third time’s the charm, right?
October 8th, 2021
This morning, Mia and I went outside for her usual routine. As we came back in, she headed straight for my bed. I stopped her and said with a smile, “Not today, Mia. You’re just about ready!”
Most dogs instinctively choose a safe and familiar place to give birth, and for Mia, that place is my bed.
At exactly 11:01 a.m., her water broke. She was calm and composed, showing no signs of distress—what a relief!
Mia stayed collected throughout. She circled a few times before settling down to begin pushing.
Before long, the first signs of the puppy appeared. With one strong push, half of the little one’s body emerged.
After a brief pause to gather herself, Mia resumed pushing steadily. She remained calm, though my heart was racing with excitement and a touch of nervousness.
Finally, at 11:13 a.m., the puppy was born—a moment of pure joy.
It’s a Girl
Born: 11:13 a.m.
October 8th, 2021
Weight: 5.2 ounces
Color: All white
To my amazement, Mia had just one pup! I could hardly believe it. Having been around dogs my whole life, I’d never witnessed anything like this before. What a truly special and unforgettable day!
When Mia gave birth to Ava, I quickly realized she was a singleton pup—her only puppy. I had never encountered this situation before, so out of curiosity and concern, I immersed myself in researching **singleton puppies** to better understand the challenges we might face together.
What I learned was both surprising and enlightening: singleton puppies often miss out on critical developmental milestones that come naturally to those raised in a litter.
Without siblings, they lose valuable opportunities to learn essential skills like bite inhibition, coping with frustration, and engaging in playful interactions—key experiences that shape their behavior and social confidence.
From day one, I knew I had to closely monitor Ava. One of my primary concerns was ensuring Mia continued feeding her, as mothers sometimes reject singleton puppies. This required constant vigilance.
I kept their crate right beside my bed and stayed on watch every night. I was ready to step in and bottle-feed if needed, but thankfully, that wasn’t necessary. Ava was thriving under Mia’s care.
To support Ava’s development, I occasionally interrupted her feeding sessions by gently pulling her away from the nipple, encouraging her to find her way back. This small exercise was crucial for teaching her persistence and problem-solving. Additionally, I prioritized early socialization by introducing her to my mother’s dogs and other family pets, helping her build the social skills she would have learned from siblings.
**Single Pup Syndrome ** One Pup Litter!
Let’s take a moment to discuss the fascinating topic of singleton puppies.
Did you know that singleton puppies occur in only about 6.4% of litters? While rare, they do happen, and they come with their own unique set of challenges and rewards.
Incredibly, my girl has had not one, but three singleton litters! Even now, I find myself in awe, but with patience, love, and care, we navigated each one successfully.
Raising a singleton puppy requires extra attention and effort. Ensuring the pup was feeding well and that the mother was attentive became our top priorities. Unfortunately, some mothers tend to neglect a singleton pup, and we were determined to make sure that didn’t happen.
Heartbreakingly, not all singleton puppies survive. This isn’t necessarily the fault of the sire or dam, but often the result of other factors, such as timing issues during mating.
One of our singleton puppies, Fighter, showed incredible resilience but only lived for seven days. Saying goodbye to him was one of the hardest moments we’ve faced.
Despite the challenges and heartbreak, each experience with singleton puppies has taught us invaluable lessons about their care and the unique situations they bring. These pups may be rare, but they truly leave a lasting impact.
A singleton puppy is the only puppy born in a litter, and while rare, this situation can present unique challenges for both the mother and the pup. For the mother, the absence of multiple puppies can reduce the natural stimulation needed to trigger labor, potentially leading to complications during delivery. For the puppy, growing up without littermates can significantly affect their development, particularly in terms of socialization and behavior. Singleton puppies often face developmental hurdles, including behavioral challenges and difficulty learning bite inhibition.
In a typical litter, siblings play an essential role in each other's growth and early development. Through play, puppies gain critical social skills. For example, when one puppy bites too hard during a game, the other will yelp, signaling discomfort. This interaction teaches puppies to control their bite strength while also fostering communication skills and emotional regulation.
These early interactions are foundational for understanding social boundaries. Puppies learn that even unintended actions, such as biting too hard, can cause pain and disrupt play. This process helps develop self-control and prepares them to navigate social situations appropriately as they grow.
Without littermates, singleton puppies miss out on these vital lessons, which can lead to a range of behavioral difficulties. Common challenges faced by singleton puppies include:
- Inadequate bite inhibition
- Poor conflict resolution skills
- Difficulty defusing social tension
- Low frustration tolerance
- Challenges in reading social cues
- Limited impulse control
- Heightened sensitivity to touch
The lack of littermates deprives singleton pups of a natural learning environment, which can hinder their development and social skills. In addition, singleton puppies typically do not generate enough prenatal hormones to fully stimulate labor in the mother, increasing the risk of delivery complications. This combination of factors explains why singleton puppies may face more developmental and survival challenges compared to pups raised with siblings.
Discover what I've uncovered by exploring the curated links under the "Links" tab.
Mia~Beans Second Litter **Singleton Pup**
It's a Boy! TUCKER
Mia and Baxter began mating on January 3rd, 2022, marking the start of preparations for their second litter.
January 3rd: Mated at 8:10 AM, locked until 8:29 AM
January 4th: Mated at 11:00 AM, locked until 11:29 AM
January 6th: Mated at 11:00 PM, locked until 11:12 PM
January 8th: Mated at 8:38 AM, locked until 8:49 AM
January 8th: Mated at 10:43 PM, locked until 11:03 PM
January 8th: Mated at 11:04 PM, locked until 11:14 PM
January 10th: Mated at 2:15 PM, locked until 2:25 PM
January 11th: Mated at 2:28 PM, locked until 2:51 PM
January 12th: Mated at 9:52 PM, locked until 10:20 PM
In total, they mated 9 times—a remarkable effort!
To track Mia’s pregnancy, we calculate starting from her first mating on January 3rd, 2022. Below is the week-by-week timeline:
January 10th: Week 1
January 17th: Week 2
January 24th: Week 3
January 31st: Week 4
February 7th: Week 5
February 14th: Week 6
February 21st: Week 7
February 24th: Week 8
March 7th: Week 9
Mia is expected to welcome her pups shortly after Week 9. Exciting times ahead!
Saturday, March 12th, 2022
Mia went into labor in the early hours of the morning at exactly 3:37 AM.
Amazingly, her pup was born at that exact time—3:37 AM—making it an unforgettable moment.
Male Pup
Markings:
This handsome boy has a pure white coat accented by striking black markings that cover both ears and eyes. Adding to his charm is a unique black spot perfectly placed in the middle of his head.
Birth Weight: 7.3 ounces
Evening Weight: 7.5 ounces
It was truly surprising to discover she had just one pup again.
I couldn’t help but think, "Not again! What could possibly be causing this?"
The entire situation felt almost unreal.
When she gave birth to her first singleton, I immediately dove into research, eager to understand how uncommon this was for a Jack Russell.
So, to see her have two singleton litters back-to-back left me completely speechless.
That being said, welcome to the world, little one!
Mia~Beans Third Litter **Singleton Pup** Fighter
Mr. Fighter – Rest in Peace, Little Warrior
Gender: Male
Born: August 8, 2022, at 7:42 PM
Weight: 3.4 ounces
I named him "Mr. Fighter" because that’s exactly what he was—a tiny warrior from the moment he entered this world.
His arrival wasn’t typical. He was born dry and yellow, without an amniotic sac or fluid. Earlier that day, I had been keeping a close watch on Mia. She was leaking, but there were no signs of distress—no crying, no panting, no frantic behavior. Then, with quiet determination, she calmly walked into her pen and began to push.
And that’s how Fighter made his entrance. From the very beginning, his journey was far from easy. Yet, Mia did everything she could for him—she cleaned him, fed him, and kept him warm. I stepped in to help too, feeding him with a bottle and formula in an effort to give him the best fighting chance.
But as the days went by, it became heartbreakingly clear that something wasn’t right. Fighter began to slow down, and eventually, Mia stopped caring for him. It’s a painful reality of nature—sometimes mothers instinctively know when one of their babies isn’t going to make it. And, sadly, Mia knew.
Still, Mr. Fighter held on. For five days, he showed courage, resilience, and an unyielding will to survive. He fought with everything he had, but his tiny body just couldn’t keep up.
Rest in peace, little one. You will always be remembered.
August 8 – August 13, 2022
Mia~Beans Forth Litter
As Mia prepares for her fourth litter, I wanted to take a moment to share the incredible journey we've been on together.
When I first discovered Mia was expecting again, I wasn’t exactly overjoyed. After all, what was done was done, and there was no changing it. I couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions, especially after everything we’d been through.
In her previous three litters, Mia only had **singleton pups**—just one puppy at a time. After the devastating loss of her last pup, I made the difficult decision that Mia wouldn’t have any more litters. For over a year, everything went according to plan. We were careful to keep our male away from her, and I genuinely believed we’d moved past that chapter.
But March 12, 2024, changed everything. While I was at work and away for a short massage, Baxter managed to find his way to Mia. When I learned what happened, I was heartbroken and frustrated. It took some time to come to terms with it, but eventually, I had to accept reality and focus on what was ahead. It was time to start planning again.
At first, I held on to hope that this wouldn’t lead to a pregnancy. Yet as the days went by, the signs became undeniable—Mia was gaining weight, her belly was rounding, and it was clear that this time, it had happened.
Now, when I look at Mia, I can’t help but feel a growing sense of excitement. This time feels different. Judging by her size, I’m almost certain she’s carrying more than just one pup. And while this wasn’t part of the plan, it feels like a new opportunity—a chance to revive my original dream: building a business focused on breeding and training Jack Russell Terriers. These amazing dogs, known for their sharp minds and boundless energy, have always been close to my heart, and I’ve long imagined creating something meaningful with them.
Having singleton litters made this dream a challenge, but maybe this time, things will be different. I’m hopeful, and I can’t wait to see how this journey unfolds. I look forward to sharing every step of this adventure with you—updates, photos, and all the milestones along the way.
This is only the beginning of Mia’s story, and I’m so excited to have you join us for what’s to come.
Baxter Story.
Meet Mr. Baxter
Where do we even start with this lovable boy? Beyond his undeniable charm and irresistible cuteness, Mr. Baxter is the heart and soul of all the delightful chaos in our lives.
Baxter came into our family at the age of 5. He shared the same breeder as my beloved Mia and played a special role in her life—he was one of the studs who helped her bring gorgeous litters into the world. A true gentleman in his breeding days, Baxter earned a reputation for fathering some of the most adorable pups you could imagine.
Goofy, silly, funny, and remarkably intelligent—Baxter’s personality is as unique as he is. Whether he’s joyfully chasing a ball or sniffing out a hidden treat, his infectious enthusiasm never fails to brighten every moment. There’s no one quite like him. He’s truly one of a kind.
How We Found Him
It all began on what seemed like an ordinary day. While scrolling through Facebook, I came across a heartbreaking post. Baxter was being rehomed, and if no one stepped up, he would be put down. My heart sank. I already knew Baxter and his owner, and without hesitation, I sent her a message offering to give him a home. At just 5 years old, this sweet boy still had so much life to live. I couldn’t let his story end there.
As we talked, I learned more about the situation. Baxter had startled his owner by snapping at her daughter—a behavior completely out of character for him. The incident, likely caused by stress, left her feeling uneasy. After much deliberation, she made the difficult decision to find him a calmer, more suitable home, knowing it was the best choice for both her family and Baxter. It was clear her heart was heavy, but her love for him guided her decision.
Without missing a beat, I turned to my partner and said, “We have to save him.” We contacted his owner, reassured her he would be loved and spoiled, and set off on a two-hour drive. The destination? The very place where I had first picked up Mia. It felt like destiny.
When we arrived, the relief on Baxter’s owner’s face was unmistakable. She was deeply grateful to know he would be cared for and surrounded by love. Saying goodbye wasn’t easy for her, but she knew it was the right thing to do. After a heartfelt exchange and a bittersweet farewell, we welcomed Baxter into our family.
Adjusting to his new home was a journey for all of us—especially for Baxter. Having spent his entire life in one place, the change was understandably overwhelming. But something magical happened: Baxter quickly formed a bond with my partner, drawn to him in a way that felt completely natural. With patience, love, and plenty of encouragement, he began to settle in, and as time went on, he truly became part of our family. Since then, our lives have been brighter, fuller, and filled with even more joy—all thanks to Baxter.
Story about Litter #4
As of today, May 8th, 2024, Mia is 56 days into her pregnancy. With her due date just six days away, labor could begin at any moment. We’re closely monitoring her to ensure everything progresses smoothly.
To watch for signs of labor, we’ve begun tracking her temperature:
Day 56
- 2:58 PM: Temperature: 99.4°F
- 12:04 AM: Temperature: 97.9°F
The puppies remain active, but Mia is showing signs of growing discomfort. She has started vomiting and is experiencing a slow fluid leak, both of which are common at this stage.
Overall, everything is progressing as expected—steady and on track. For now, all signs are positive as we prepare to welcome the puppies soon.
57 day pregnant !!
Today is May 9th, 2024, and Mia has officially reached day 57 of her pregnancy. The pups are incredibly active at this stage, with nearly constant movement! Meanwhile, Mia is spending most of her time resting and isn’t interested in playing.
Temperature Tracking:
Day 57 Readings:
6:26 PM - 98.9°F
10:00 PM - 98.7°F
Mia is starting to show signs of discomfort. She’s restless and has difficulty settling in one spot for long. The movements of the pups are now clearly visible. Although she’s still eating, her appetite has noticeably decreased—she’s mostly nibbling rather than finishing full meals.
The big moment is almost here! Mia could go into labor anytime between days 59 and 63, so we’re keeping a close eye on her.
58 Days Pregnant
It’s May 10th, 2024, and this morning I noticed a small amount of leaking—a promising sign that labor is beginning to progress into its early stages.
I monitored Mia’s temperature throughout the day:
Day 58
8:00 AM: 98.3°F
11:10 PM: 98.8°F
Mia is displaying signs of restlessness, which is entirely normal at this point. However, this labor feels different compared to her previous litters. Her breathing is noticeably deeper and more intense, likely due to the added strain of carrying a larger litter instead of a singleton.
The whelping pen is prepped and ready. Now, all we can do is wait patiently for the arrival of her puppies.
We actually have a Litter this time **3 Pups**
59 Days Pregnant
Exciting News Alert: I can’t wait to share this with you! 🎉
Mark your calendars for May 11th, 2024—an unforgettable day dedicated to new beginnings and adorable puppies!
Miss Mia started experiencing contractions around 6:30 PM. As the signs of labor progressed, I stayed by her side, ready to provide comfort and support.
What began as simply sitting with her soon turned into lying down beside her, offering reassurance during these crucial moments.
By 7:55 PM, Mia was still pushing with incredible determination, her strength shining through every moment.
Finally, at 1:48 AM, her perseverance was rewarded as she welcomed her first puppy into the world—a precious little girl weighing 4.5 ounces.
At 3:19 AM, Mia delivered her second pup, a healthy and vibrant bundle of joy weighing 6.7 ounces.
It was a long and tiring night, but so deeply rewarding for Mia and her growing family!
Pup #1 Girl
May 11th, 2024
At 1:48 AM, our precious baby girl arrived.
Weighing just 4.5 ounces, she is small but absolutely perfect.
Her coat is a pristine white, accented with charming brown markings around her eyes and fully covering her ears.
Her arrival was smooth and swift. Mia lovingly cleaned her, and after drying her off, we carefully weighed her. She is already so loved.
Pup #2 Girl
May 11th, 2024
At 3:19 AM, a beautiful baby girl entered the world.
She weighed 6.7 ounces and has a pure white coat, completely unmarked—at least for now.
Her size was remarkable, so much so that I needed to assist Mia during the delivery to help guide her out safely.
There was a tense moment when she seemed stuck. Despite Mia's determined efforts and my careful assistance, there was little progress. Her hind legs even began to change color, and I worried I might have hurt her in the process.
But as soon as she was born, Mia cleaned her thoroughly, and we weighed her with a mix of relief and joy.
Thankfully, after a few days, her legs returned to their normal color, and she’s thriving beautifully now.
May 11, 2024
Arrived at 8:30 PM
Female
Weighing just 5.6 ounces
This little one is completely white with charming brown markings over both ears—concentrated around her left eye, partially around her right, and with a sweet brown spot at the base of her tail.
She was the last to make her debut, and what an unexpected blessing she turned out to be!
I had just stepped into the store, convinced the birthing was finished. But to my surprise, one more precious pup was on her way.
By the time I returned, Mia had already cleaned her up and gently weighed her. Such a delicate, beautiful addition to the litter!
Pup #4 Girl
Day 3 ! Puppy Update!
As of today, May 14th, 2024, I’m thrilled to share some exciting updates about Mama Mia and her precious puppies!
Mama Mia: She’s thriving! Her appetite is great, she’s moving around comfortably, and she’s managing quick trips outside before hurrying back to her little ones. She’s proving to be a truly amazing mama!
The Puppies: They’re growing like champs and sticking to their favorite pastimes—eating and sleeping. Here’s a breakdown of their progress so far:
Morning Weigh-In:
- Pup #1: 5.6 ounces (up from 5.1 ounces)
- Pup #2: 9.2 ounces (up from 8.3 ounces)
- Pup #4: 6.9 ounces (up from 6.4 ounces)
I weigh the puppies twice a day to track their growth, so I’ll include their evening weights as well. So far, they’re all on track and developing perfectly. Aren’t they just the sweetest? I’m still in awe that this entire litter consists of girls—such a rare and special occurrence! Even though we sadly lost one pup, it’s heartwarming to see the others thriving.
Evening Weigh-In:
- Pup #1: 6.1 ounces (up from 5.2 ounces)
- Pup #2: 10.0 ounces (up from 8.1 ounces)
- Pup #4: 7.7 ounces (up from 6.6 ounces)
Fun Fact: Did you know there’s only a 3.2% chance of a dog having an all-female litter? That makes Mia’s newest litter even more extraordinary! This incredible girl had three singleton litters before this, and now she’s blessed with a litter of four—all girls. Mia truly is one-of-a-kind and such an exceptional mother.
**MAMA MIA IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!**
Day 4 Puppy weight
Wednesday, May 15th, 2024
This morning, I weighed the puppies, and watching their weights steadily increase is one of my favorite parts of the day.
Mia continues to amaze me as a mother. She takes little breaks to spend time with me throughout the day, but she always keeps an eye on her pups. Whether they need feeding or cleaning, she knows exactly what to do and tends to them with such care and devotion.
Morning Weights:
- Pup #1: 6.4 ounces (up from 5.6 ounces)
- Pup #2: 10.4 ounces (up from 9.2 ounces)
- Pup #4: 8.0 ounces (up from 6.9 ounces)
The puppies are thriving! The second female pup, in particular, is growing impressively—she's definitely turning into a strong, chunky little one!
Evening Weights:
- Pup #1: 7.0 ounces (up from 6.1 ounces)
- Pup #2: 8.6 ounces (down slightly from 10.0 ounces)
- Pup #3: 11.2 ounces (up from 7.7 ounces)
It’s so rewarding to see how they’re progressing. While one pup’s weight dipped slightly, there’s no cause for concern—she’s actually the biggest of the litter, and minor fluctuations like this are totally normal as long as the changes aren’t drastic. She’s doing absolutely fine!
The pups are becoming more active with each passing day. I think it’s time to upgrade their bed to a larger one because they’ve started climbing the sides of their current one! Honestly, I thought the bed I bought would be big enough, but I clearly underestimated how quickly they’d grow.
And Mia? She’s nothing short of incredible. She takes short breaks to stretch, head outside, or spend a little time with me, but she never strays far from her babies. Her love and dedication are truly heartwarming—she’s such a phenomenal mom. ❤️
Day 6 of Puppies Update!
Welcome to May 17th, 2024!
It’s been six days since their arrival, and the pups are absolutely thriving! These little bundles of energy are always on the move, and it’s clear they’re full of life. Watching them grow promises to be an exciting journey.
Soon enough, their individual personalities will start to shine through, and we can’t wait to discover what makes each one unique.
This morning, I took a moment to track their growth by weighing them:
Morning Weights:
- Pup #1: 8.1 ounces (up from 5.6 ounces)
- Pup #2: 12.6 ounces (up from 10.4 ounces)
- Pup #4: 10.0 ounces (up from 6.9 ounces)
Later in the evening, I checked their weights again, and here’s how they measured up:
Evening Weights:
- Pup #1: 8.6 ounces (up from 7.7 ounces)
- Pup #2: 13.1 ounces (up from 12.3 ounces)
- Pup #4: 10.6 ounces (up from 9.5 ounces)
It’s truly incredible to witness how much progress they’ve made in just one day!
We hit the one week mark!
May 18th, 2024
Mia's puppies are officially one week old today, and I have to say, they're surprisingly lively for little ones who haven’t even opened their eyes yet! They’re constantly squirming around, and I keep finding them on the floor. As for Mia? She’s not exactly the hands-on mom who scoops them up—oh no, she just cries for backup in the middle of the night. And guess who has to answer the call? That’s right, me! Who needs a newborn baby to keep you awake when a litter of energetic puppies can handle it just as well?
Here’s the latest update on Mia’s precious trio:
Pup #1: The tiniest of the litter, this little girl weighed just 4.5 ounces at birth and has now doubled to 8.9 ounces. She’s the firstborn and the runt, but she’s growing steadily and holding her own like a champ.
Pup #2: This pup started at 6.7 ounces and now weighs a hefty 13.4 ounces, making her the biggest of the group. She gave Mia a tough time during delivery, and I had to step in to help. Her back feet were swollen and purple at birth, but after just a week, she’s completely back to normal. She’s also starting to develop some adorable markings—dark spots around her nose and mouth, hints of black near her eyes, and even a touch of color at the tip of her right ear. She’s absolutely stunning, and I can’t wait to see how her coat evolves.
Pup #3: At birth, she weighed 5.6 ounces and now tips the scale at 10.9 ounces. The last to arrive, she’s a little bigger than Pup #1, though they share nearly identical markings. She’s thriving beautifully, keeping up with her siblings every step of the way.
And Mia? She’s proving to be an incredible mom. She’s feeding her pups regularly, keeping them spotless, and staying close to them at all times. While she’s beginning to stretch her legs and move around a bit more, she never strays too far. Watching her maternal instincts in action is nothing short of heartwarming.
Stay tuned for more updates as these little ones continue to grow and develop!
One-Week Weight Update
Date: Saturday, May 18, 2024
Morning Weigh-In:
- Pup #1: 8.9 oz (gained from 8.1 oz)
- Pup #2: 13.4 oz (gained from 12.6 oz)
- Pup #4: 10.9 oz (gained from 10.0 oz)
Evening Weigh-In:
- Pup #1: 9.6 oz (gained from 8.6 oz)
- Pup #2: 14.6 oz (gained from 13.1 oz)
- Pup #4: 11.5 oz (gained from 10.6 oz)
The pups are doing wonderfully and gaining weight consistently—great progress all around!
Puppies are 12 Days old
We’re officially at the 12-day mark, and the pups are more active than ever!
They’re constantly on the move, exploring every corner of their pen with boundless energy.
Pup #2 continues to shine—she’s a real powerhouse! Big from the start, she’s already showing signs of growing into a strong, remarkable dog.
Morning Weights:
- Pup #1: 14.6 ounces (up from 13.3 ounces)
- Pup #2: 1 lb 4.7 ounces (up from 1 lb 2.8 ounces)
- Pup #4: 1 lb 0.1 ounce (up from 15.2 ounces)
Evening Weights:
- Pup #1: 14.5 ounces (up from 13.8 ounces)
- Pup #2: 1 lb 5.3 ounces (up from 1 lb 4.3 ounces)
- Pup #4: 1 lb 1.7 ounces (up from 15.3 ounces)
Now for some exciting milestones!
Pup #4 has fully opened her eyes, revealing a gorgeous shade of blue. It’ll be fun to see if that color sticks!
Pup #1’s eyes are just starting to open—give it another day or two, and they’ll be wide open and ready to take in the world.
As for Pup #2, her eyes are still fully closed, but something amazing is happening. She’s developing unique and beautiful markings that stretch from her eyes to her ears, as well as on her nose.
We can’t wait to see how these stunning patterns evolve as she grows!
** 2 WEEK MARK **
We did it!
June 25th, 2024
The girls have officially reached their two-week milestone, and they’re thriving! Mia has been an amazing mom, lovingly caring for them every step of the way.
Their eyes are open now, and they’ve started to explore their little world with growing curiosity.
Our all-white little girl has proven to be quite the adventurer—she just won’t stay in the bed!
She constantly finds her way to the floor for naps, so I’ve set up a soft, cozy blanket for her to rest on. From the moment she was born, she’s been alert, spirited, and full of personality.
Now that their ears are beginning to open, she perks up at the creak of a door and even lifts her head to investigate the sound.
Meanwhile, the other two are staying snug on the bed, though they’re just as wiggly and active. They’re starting to pick up faint sounds, like the door opening, and every now and then, they’ll turn their heads out of curiosity. They’re making great progress!
Here’s where they stand with their current weights:
Pup #1: 1 lb 0.2 oz
Pup #2: 1 lb 7.8 oz
Pup #4: 1 lb 1.9 oz
They’re growing quickly and getting stronger by the day!
** Pup's are 3 weeks old **
We’ve officially hit the 3-week milestone as of Saturday, June 1st, 2024—and what an exciting week it’s been!
The little ones are now fully on the move and have discovered their adorable voices. The white pup has started to cry occasionally, and the tiniest of the litter often joins in. I even caught the white pup howling softly in her sleep! Meanwhile, the smallest pup loves letting out playful barks—it’s beyond precious.
They’re also beginning to interact more with each other and their toys, which is such a delight to watch!
Mom is still nursing them, but we’re getting close to introducing puppy food, usually around the 4-week mark. Of course, she’ll continue feeding them during this transition, but it’s exciting to see them moving toward their next stage of growth.
At just 3 weeks old, they’re already making progress with pee pad training! They’re not perfect yet, but it’s a fantastic start, and I couldn’t be more proud of their efforts.
Mid-3 Week Update:
The pups are starting to consistently use the pee pads in their pen—such an impressive achievement at this age! I’ve already had to replace the pads twice, which is a great sign of progress. It’s amazing to see how quickly they’re catching on to this routine.
One of the funniest moments so far has been watching the white pup get off the bed all on her own to use the pad. The other two still need a bit of guidance, but they’re improving every day. Based on how much the pad is being used, I know it’s not just one pup making all the effort!
All three pups are now walking, though their confidence varies. The white pup struts around like a pro, while the other two are still a little wobbly. But with their determination, I know it won’t be long before they’re all moving confidently.
End of 3 Week Update:
The pups have become noticeably vocal and incredibly alert! They’ve started recognizing familiar sounds, like the creak of the bedroom or pen door, and they’re always eager for attention when they hear them.
Their progress with the pee pads has been phenomenal—all three now leave the bed to use them on their own. Such smart little puppies! This just proves how intelligent Jack Russell Terriers are.
Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to get updated weights for them this week. My scale unexpectedly stopped working, even after replacing the batteries. A new one is on the way, so weight checks will resume soon.
As for playtime, it’s become more entertaining than ever. The pups are engaging more with each other and their toys, trying their best to tug, wrestle, and tear them apart. It’s such a joy to watch their playful antics!
I’ve also given them some supervised playtime outside of their pen, where they got to interact with Ava, their 3-year-old sister. Ava gets so excited to see them and tries to play, but when one of the pups goes for her paws, she hilariously runs away. It’s always such a funny moment that keeps me laughing!
We are at the 4 week mark.
We’re officially one month old!
June 8th, 2024
The pups have started nibbling on puppy food, but they’re still a little unsure about drinking water. They’ve given it a try—curiously dipping their noses in—only to quickly back away. It’s the most adorable thing to watch! Hopefully, they’ll warm up to it soon, especially now that their teeth are coming in. Poor Mama Mia could certainly use some relief!
All the pups are now pee pad trained, and they’ve been doing so well! Of course, when they’re zooming around freely, a few accidents happen here and there, but that’s perfectly fine. They’re still learning, and their progress has been fantastic.
Their playful energy is skyrocketing! They’re beginning to interact more with each other, and the sounds they make while playing are beyond precious. Tiny growls, playful yips, and little barks? Absolutely irresistible!
Exciting changes are happening with Pup #2, our sweet all-white girl—or so we thought! She’s starting to develop the most gorgeous tan markings. A touch of tan is appearing on her left side, near the base of her tail, around her eyes, and even on her ears—though the tan doesn’t fully cover them. She’s also getting a unique little tan spot on the very top of her head. It’s so special!
Pup #1 has her own surprise in store! A small spot is beginning to show on the right side of her back, close to the middle. It’s still tiny, so we’ll have to wait and see how it unfolds—but it’s exciting to watch her markings develop!
At just one month old, these little ones are already full of life! They’re zooming around, playing with toys, chasing each other, and even going after our feet. They’re big fans of attention, eagerly running up to us with tiny barks and growls to demand cuddles. And once we pick them up? They melt into our arms—it’s the sweetest thing ever.
Their daily schedule is pretty consistent now. They settle in for bed around 8 PM and wake up bright and early at 7 AM (sometimes they even let us sleep in a little!). But when they’re awake, there’s no missing it—they make sure their voices are heard! Since their pen is in my room, I hear them as soon as they’re up and moving. They fuss and stir until I bring them to the living room, where they can let loose and run free. Watching them light up with joy as they explore is one of the most heartwarming parts of the day.
We hit 8 Weeks
They’ve officially hit the 8-week milestone as of July 6th, 2024!
Now begins the desensitization phase—an exciting and pivotal chapter in a puppy’s development. This stage plays a crucial role in shaping their future temperament and ability to adapt to the world. While it’s important for all breeds, it’s especially vital for active and intelligent dogs like Jack Russells.
Unfortunately, this phase is often overlooked, but it’s one of the building blocks for raising confident, well-adjusted pups.
These little girls have blossomed into feisty, spirited bundles of energy! They’re also early risers—no matter how late they go to bed. And no, I’m not talking about myself here, haha!
By 5 or 6 a.m. (and occasionally 7 if I’m really lucky), they’re wide awake, howling to be let out of their pen, eager to embrace the day. They absolutely adore running free and exploring the open space.
Once outside, they snack as they roam, but they’re grazers, not gobblers. Instead of finishing their meals in one go, they nibble throughout the day—a habit I actually prefer since it keeps feeding routines simple. That said, add some wet food or dehydrated sardines to the mix, and they lose their little minds with excitement!
Recently, I started introducing them to the backyard, where they’ve been having an absolute blast. They race around playing chase with each other, their mom, their sister, their dad, and even Chico. I set up a puppy pool for them, filling it with just a bit of water on hot days, giving them the chance to explore with or without water. I’ve also tried using the garden hose on sprinkle mode to create a gentle rain-like effect, spraying lightly over them.
These water activities are helping them get comfortable with being wet, a skill that will definitely make potty training during rainy weather much easier.
The very next day, it started drizzling, so I took them outside. They quickly went potty, had a short play session, and then cried to come back in—totally normal for their very first rainy-day experience.
When the rain continued the following day, we ventured out again. Small, consistent outings like these should help them adjust to rainy conditions before they head off to their new homes. Fingers crossed these early experiences will make the transition smoother!
This method worked wonders with Ava and Tucker in the past. These girls, however, seem a bit more… spirited. But hey, we’re ready for the challenge—here we go!
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