One mother sheepdog is making an impressive parent already.
Stella is a Napa, California, Maremma sheepdog that set a state and world record for the most puppies born in one litter.
KNTV reported that Stella's owner, farmer John Costanzo, broke the California record for largest litter of puppies and the world record for largest Maremma sheepdog litter.
Stella and the puppies' dad, Orso, are working dogs for Napa Grass Farmer, which describes itself as a "holistic, regenerative grass farm."
"We had an excellent vet deliver them because it was way more than we thought," Costanzo said. "They all made it and are healthy. The doctor said it was five more than he has ever seen in his years of practice as the biggest litter he had ever delivered was 12."
The litter is made up of 11 male puppies and six female puppies.
As cute as the puppies are, the Maremma Sheepdog Club of America does not recommend them as pets, only as working dogs.
"The dogs protect these animals in the pasture," Costanzo said. "Our club members have been helping us with daily feedings. They are bred for livestock protection only – awesome breed."
The Maremma Sheepdog Club of America does say the dogs are affectionate animals that "lean on you, body block you, paw you and some even want to hug you or nibble you affectionately."
The puppies were born the first week of February. "Today" reported that they will be sold to other California farms to protect livestock.
The puppies are currently 4weeks old.
See them in the video below.
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