When assessing new pups, which observation would indicate a problem?

When evaluating the well-being of new pups, observing the dam's behavior is crucial. A dam frequently leaving the nest can indicate several potential issues. It may suggest that she is experiencing stress, illness, or insufficient maternal instincts, which could lead to inadequate care for her pups. This behavior might compromise the pups' access to warmth, safety, and nursing, ultimately affecting their health and survival.

In contrast, sleeping peacefully, clustering together, and nursing well are all signs of normal and healthy pup behavior. Peaceful sleeping reflects their comfort and security in their environment, clustering together signifies natural warmth-seeking behavior, and nursing well indicates that the pups are receiving adequate nutrition from the dam. Each of these observations suggests that the pups are thriving and that the maternal care is functioning appropriately. Therefore, the observation of the dam leaving the nest frequently is particularly concerning and points towards a problem that may need to be addressed promptly.