Dot bought a rural lifestyle block in Waverley with room for her horses and dogs.
Last month beautiful Great Dane Jerry gave birth to 11 puppies. Sadly three didn't make it.
But the eight that did - four boys and four girls - are in absolute peak condition, Dot said.
With bright eyes and glossy coats, they were full of business as they played, ate masses of puppy food and took regular long naps.
Dot admits she's been feeling worn out especially now that at five weeks old, they are being weaned.
Their last feed was at 10pm and straight to sleep, then they're wide awake and ready for action again at 5am.
"I have to go to work so I'm finding it tiring,'' Dot said.
Trying to give them all regular cuddles was difficult because they've been growing rapidly and Dot was fast running out of lap-room.
"I love them all to bits but they really are a lot of effort now.''
Even before they were born Dot had people wanting a pup.
They have been rehomed throughout New Zealand, she said.
The pups have nicknames as well as their pedigree titles like Dolly and Maple Leaf.
And they're already getting parcels in the mail regularly from their new owners.
"I can't believe I'm unwrapping fluffy blankets, soft toy animals and rubber squeaky toys for their new pup. The owners are so excited it's actually very special.''
These pups with their German/Romanian bloodline are strengthening the Great Dane pedigree line in New Zealand, Dot said.
The pups now nearly six weeks old will go to their homes when they are 12 weeks old.
"Even that's quite soon I think.''
Dot said she will breed from father Tom and mum Jerry once more... probably next year.
"Then that's it. No more puppies....until the puppies start having puppies.''
