Welped Meaning: Definition and Examples
🐶
welped
[wɛlpt ]
Definition
animal husbandry
Welped refers to the act of a dog giving birth to puppies. It is commonly used in veterinary contexts and by dog breeders to describe the delivery process. This term reflects the specific moment when a mother dog whelps her puppies, and it is significant in the breeding and care of dogs.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The Labrador welped six healthy puppies.
- She was excited when her dog welped for the first time.
- The vet checked to ensure the mother was safe after she welped.
- After the mother dog welped, she needed proper care.
- The breeder noted the date when the dog welped.
Interesting Facts
Animal Behavior
- Many mammal species have specific behaviors associated with the birthing process, such as nesting or seeking shelter.
- Whelping can occur in various settings; domesticated dogs often have their pups in a secure space provided by the owner.
- The whelping process can last several hours to a day, depending on the number of pups and the health of the mother.
Veterinary Science
- Whelping should be monitored to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and her puppies.
- Veterinarians often advise on the care of pregnant dogs, preparing owners for the whelping process.
- Certain breeds have specific health risks during whelping, making veterinary assistance crucial in those cases.
Cultural References
- In literature and films, the term 'whelp' is often used to describe the innocence and vulnerability of young animals.
- Various cultures place significance on the timing and rituals surrounding the whelping of domestic animals as part of farming traditions.
- The concept of whelping is utilized in storytelling to symbolize new beginnings or the cycle of life.
Origin of 'welped'
Main points about word origin
- 'Whelp' is an old English word that originally referred to a young dog or puppy.
- The word 'welped' derives from the verb form of 'whelp', showing the act of birthing the young.
- In Middle English, the word was spelled ‘whelp’ and was commonly used in texts referring to young animals.
The term 'welped' is derived from the Old English word 'whelp', which means a young dog or pup. The root of 'whelp' can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic *wulfa, which also pertains to the act of giving birth. Over the centuries, the term has evolved in its usage, particularly in relation to canine reproduction, becoming a specific term within the fields of animal husbandry and canine breeding. The modern usage of 'welped' often appears in literature related to dog breeding, veterinary care, and shows, emphasizing its relevance in discussions of canine reproduction. As dog breeding gained popularity, the term became more commonplace among breeders and enthusiasts, solidifying its importance in dog breeding terminology.