How should I feed a four-day-old puppy?

Newborn puppies are delicate creatures, and taking care of them during their first days is a significant responsibility. When a litter of puppies is born, they are completely dependent on their mother and their caregivers for survival. Here’s how to feed a four-day-old puppy and some reasonable suggestions to ensure their health and growth.

Puppies rely on their mother’s milk for the first few weeks of life. This milk provides all the necessary nutrients, antibodies, and hydration they need to thrive. If the mother is available and able to nurse, let the puppies nurse as often as they want. They will naturally know when they are full and stop nursing. It’s essential to make sure each puppy gets a chance to nurse from both sides of the mother to get a balanced diet.

In cases where the mother is unavailable or unable to nurse her puppies, you may need to step in and provide them with a milk replacement. Use a specially formulated puppy milk replacer, not cow’s milk or any other dairy product, as these can be harmful to puppies. Prepare the milk replacer according to the instructions on the packaging to ensure the right balance of nutrients.

Feeding a four-day-old puppy requires a gentle touch. You will need to use a bottle with a nipple designed for puppies or a syringe without a needle to feed them. Gently hold the puppy in an upright position to prevent milk from going into their lungs. Puppies this young don’t have a strong suckling reflex, so you may need to help them by gently massaging their lower lip and the area around their mouth to stimulate nursing.

Puppies should be fed every two to three hours around the clock. This frequent feeding schedule ensures they get enough nutrients and stay hydrated. After each feeding, it’s important to burp the puppies gently to remove any air they may have swallowed during feeding. You can do this by holding the puppy against your chest and gently patting their back.

Monitoring the puppies’ weight is crucial. Puppies should gain weight every day. Weigh them at the same time each day to track their progress. If a puppy isn’t gaining weight or seems listless, it may not be getting enough milk or could be ill. In such cases, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Keep the puppies warm and comfortable. Newborn puppies can’t regulate their body temperature, so it’s essential to provide a warm environment. Use a heating pad or a warm blanket to keep the puppies at a temperature of about 85 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. However, be cautious not to overheat them. Always provide a way for the puppies to move away from the heat source if they get too warm.

Cleanliness is also vital. Puppies can’t clean themselves, so it’s up to you to keep them clean. After each feeding, gently wipe their genital area with a warm, damp cloth to stimulate them to urinate and defecate. This mimics what the mother would do in nature. Make sure to keep their living area clean and free of waste to prevent infections.

Socialization is another important aspect of caring for newborn puppies. While they are still very young, it’s beneficial to handle them gently and frequently. This helps them get used to human touch and can contribute to their overall well-being. However, be gentle and respectful of their delicate nature.

Feeding a four-day-old puppy requires careful attention and dedication. By ensuring they get enough milk, staying on top of their weight gain, keeping them warm and clean, and handling them with care, you can help these tiny creatures grow into healthy, happy dogs. Remember, the first few days are critical, and your efforts can make a significant difference in their lives.