We all know that human mothers have what we call “maternal instinct”, while we also know that humans build such a strong bond with their babies that they would recognize them among hundreds if they needed to.

Dogs are smart animals, and they are also known to care for their puppies and be affectionate towards them. But, the question is, would dogs recognize their offspring if they saw them years later? And would the puppies, in turn, recognize their mother?

Research suggests that they would. Thanks to the “love hormone”, oxytocin, and the sense of smell that is insanely developed in canines, female dogs can recognize their puppies for years after birth.

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Given that puppies don’t usually get the chance to stay with their mom for long- most are sold or adopted about three months after birth- it is a valid question whether they can tell who their mother is after some time has passed. But experts agree that they still can.

And this story is coming to prove it.

Bess was a stray dog, who was taken in by Tracy and John Stuart, who took care of her. They had no idea that she was pregnant until it was time for her to give birth to her puppies.

Thankfully, Bess was taken to the emergency labor room, where she gave birth to 12 healthy puppies. Some needed extra care and support, but eventually, they all made it.

Mama dog took great care of her puppies. She loved them and was always alert in case they needed her. Tracy, John, and a bunch of friends and family were there to “co-parent” with her, whenever possible.

Two months after the puppies were born, the couple decided they just were too many to keep in one place, so they decided to give them up for adoption.

Not surprisingly, many of the couple’s friends and family members had already loved Bess and her puppies, so all the family was adopted by them. Bess was the first to be adopted and, little by little, all the puppies left.

Ten months passed, and Tracy and John thought it was time for the family to reunite for the puppies’ birthday.

So, they organized a proper party for them with hats, balloons, snacks, treats, and lots of games.

The birthday boys and girls arrived, and they were extremely happy to see each other. They kept going close to each other, wagging their tails.

Some time later, it was time for the mom to arrive. Once Bess got to the open area where the party was about to take place, she was put on a party collar and led to where her puppies were.

When mama dog saw her puppies, she couldn’t control herself. Her tail couldn’t stop wagging, and she almost jumped over to hug her babies.

The puppies- now big dogs- were excited to meet Bess again as well. It was a moment of pure joy for all of them.

The party was a huge success and all the dogs had fun. What an amazing reunion!

Watch Bess’ reaction when she saw her puppies in the video below.

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Source: YouTube, The Animal Rescue Site, Instagram, Pet Keen