They Were Expecting 3 Puppies, Dalmatian Mom Gave Birth To 18 Instead
In a scene reminiscent of Disney’s “101 Dalmatians,” Cecilia Langton-Bunker, a seasoned Dalmatian breeder, experienced a real-life miracle.
Her dog Miley gave birth to a staggering 18 puppies, setting a World Record for the breed.
An Unexpected Turn
The story began when Cecilia, owner of CC Dalmatians, and her colleague, Jade Martin, decided to breed Miley with Astro Wonder Boy, hoping for a healthy litter.
The dog mommy, Miley, carried the pups for 63 days until one morning, they started to arrive.
Source: CC Dalmatians
Initial vet checkups predicted three puppies, so imagine the shock when the count reached 18 during a marathon 13.5-hour labor.
“We got to 16 and thought she was done after 13 and a half hours of labour […] It was quite amazing she popped out another two, making it a world record and Australian record. I was flabbergasted to see so many.” Cecilia told 9News.
Challenges of a Large Litter
Managing such a large litter was no small feat.
Miley, a first-time mom, faced the enormous task of nursing 18 puppies.
Source: Dog Dispatch
Both Cecilia and Jade were fully committed to supporting Miley through this demanding time, ensuring she and her puppies remained healthy and well cared for.
The Puppies’ New Homes
The birth of the 18 Dalmatian puppies was not only a record-breaking event but also a heartwarming story of survival and motherly strength.
After careful health checks and initial nurturing, each puppy found a new home.
Source: Dog Dispatch
Jade originally intended for her daughter, Lulu, to pick a single puppy, but the unexpected litter size turned their choice into something much bigger.
Reflections on the Experience
Though the experience was unforgettable, Cecilia and Jade agree that they wouldn’t want to put Miley through such a demanding event again, despite her proving to be an exceptional mother.
All of the pooches were examined by the vet and are in perfect health.
Source: CC Dalmatians
It’s true that Dalmatian dogs usually have big litters, but we’re talking about an average of 8 to 10 pups here.
This litter of 18 puppies was truly exceptional. It set the new Australian record, and landed a place in the Guinness Book of World Records, equaling the existing record.
Legacy of the Record Litter
As the puppies grow and start their lives with new families, they leave behind a legacy that will be talked about for years to come.
Miley’s story is a reminder of the surprises nature can hold and the extraordinary events that sometimes occur in the world of animal breeding.
Source: CC Dalmatians
It highlights the importance of responsible breeding practices and the deep care breeders like Cecilia and Jade have for their animals, ensuring they live healthy, happy lives both in and out of the spotlight.
