The American Beagler Forum

I've got a five and a half year old bitch who had a litter ten days ago. I also have a one and a half year old who has never been bread. Today I was letting the dogs run in the yard as I cleaned the kennels, pups included. When I was rounding up the dogs the young female had the pups sucking on her and was mothering them. When the actual mom went around her and the pups, the young one was growling at her. Anybody have this happen before, and should I keep an eye out for the young one? She's not due to come into heat until Jan. so I don't know if it could be hormones.

It sounds as if she has very strong maternal instincts. I would definately separate them for the time being. You don't want the young one to defend the pups from their mother. She needs to be caring for them and if she feels threatened by the younger bitch, she may give up on them. The sooner you separate them the better.
If she is a quality bitch that has good hunting/running skills, you may consider breeding her when she comes in. It just may make her a better dog in the long run.

Renee'