I am sure there are as many other methods for raising puppies, as there are owners. I will begin with rearing. Please note that I have been rearing my dogs in this manner for years and this is how my dogs act and re-act naturally at this time. For those of you who decide to follow these methods, you will need to use more caution at first when you are introducing older dogs to the puppies. I strongly suggest that you begin with the Early Socialization methods described below first.
Dogs are very social animals and have a definite pack order.
As the date of whelping nears, enforce the fact that the litter will be born in a place of your choosing. At my house this is next to my bed. As each pup is born it is weighed and any distinguishing marks or defects are recorded. Each puppy is weighed daily and the stimulation noted below are preformed at this time. I also have had males take over these duties.