When we hear about dogs giving birth, a litter of a few pups is usually expected. But when the count hits double digits, that’s a story!

Shadow, a Neapolitan mastiff from Australia, recently set the national record by giving birth to a staggering 21 puppies.

Typically, dogs have litters ranging from six to ten, but Shadow isn’t just any ordinary dog.

Image source: 7NEWS BRISBANE – FACEBOOK

Before her emergency C-section, she had already birthed three pups at home. Concerned after four hours without any more births, her owner sped her to the hospital.

Sadly, one pup passed away en route.

Image source: 7NEWS BRISBANE – FACEBOOK

Upon arriving at Underwood Hospital, swift scans revealed a whopping 18 more puppies inside! It took ten veterinarians to facilitate the delivery.

Image source: 7NEWS BRISBANE – FACEBOOK

Unfortunately, three pups didn’t survive, but that still left Shadow with 18 healthy babies. A heartwarming video shared by the Animal Emergency Service shows these adorable mastiffs nestled together post-birth.

Image source: 7NEWS BRISBANE – FACEBOOK

Neapolitan mastiffs, or Mastino Napoletano, are known guard dogs. Hailing originally from Italy, their distinctive features are their saggy skin and wrinkles.

Image source: Wikipedia

Adult mastiffs weigh 60-70 kilograms and stand two to three feet tall, placing them amongst the larger dog breeds.

Image source: GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS

In Australia’s record books, two dogs previously shared the top spot for largest litters at 19 pups. Globally, the Guinness record is held by another Neapolitan mastiff, Tia, who birthed 24 puppies in 2004.

Image source: Wikipedia

Female Neapolitan mastiffs’ substantial size, closely matching that of their male counterparts, might explain the breed’s recurring record births.

Image source: Wikipedia

Image source: 7NEWS BRISBANE – FACEBOOK

Having gone through such intense labor, Shadow is now soaking in the love from her human family and her new litter.