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Newborn Puppy Care: A Two-Week Feeding Guide

Raising a newborn puppy is a heartwarming journey filled with love and responsibility. During the first two weeks of life, these little furballs are entirely dependent on their mother for warmth, nutrition, and care. However, if you find yourself in the role of a surrogate parent, it's crucial to understand the feeding essentials to ensure the health and well-being of your tiny pup.

Understanding Milk Replacer

If the mother dog is unavailable or unable to produce enough milk, you'll need to step in with a milk replacer. It's important to choose a high-quality, canine-specific formula that closely mimics the nutrients found in a mother's milk. Avoid using cow's milk or other dairy products, as they can cause digestive upset in puppies.

Feeding Schedule

Puppies need to be fed frequently, about every two to three hours, around the clock. This may seem daunting, but it's essential for their growth and development. During the first two weeks, their stomachs are tiny, so they can only consume small amounts at a time. Be prepared for this feeding schedule, and if you're unable to stay up all night, consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member.

Feeding Techniques

When bottle-feeding, it's important to create a natural feeding position. Place the puppy on its stomach to mimic the natural nursing position. This helps prevent aspiration and ensures the puppy is comfortable while eating. Gently hold the bottle at a slight angle to keep the nipple full of milk, preventing the puppy from swallowing air.

Monitoring Intake

Keep a close eye on how much your puppy is eating. Newborn puppies should consume about 1 to 1.5 tablespoons of milk per pound of body weight per day. This amount can be divided into the feedings you provide throughout the day and night. If you notice the puppy is not eating well or seems to be losing weight, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Hydration

Puppies also need to stay hydrated. Ensure that the milk replacer you're using is well-hydrated, and if you notice the puppy is not drinking enough, you can offer a small amount of water in a shallow dish. Puppies may not drink water on their own during the first few days, but as they grow, they'll start to show interest in water.

Stimulating Elimination

Newborn puppies are unable to eliminate waste on their own. The mother dog typically licks the puppies to stimulate urination and defecation. As a surrogate parent, you'll need to take over this duty. After each feeding, gently rub the puppy's lower abdomen and genital area with a warm, damp cloth or a soft tissue. This will stimulate the puppy to urinate and defecate.

Health and Safety

Keep the puppies in a warm, draft-free environment. The ideal temperature for newborn puppies is between 85 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a heating pad or a warm water bottle wrapped in a blanket to maintain the temperature, but be sure to provide a cool area where the puppies can move away from the heat if they become too warm.

Monitor the puppies for signs of illness, such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, or lack of appetite. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian right away.

Socialization and Handling

While the primary focus during the first two weeks is on feeding and basic care, it's also important to start handling the puppies gently. This helps them get used to human touch and will make them more comfortable with future interactions. Spend a few minutes each day holding and petting the puppies, but be careful not to overstimulate them.

Caring for newborn puppies is a rewarding experience, but it requires dedication and attention to detail. By following these feeding guidelines and keeping a watchful eye on your little ones, you'll help ensure they grow into healthy, happy dogs. Remember, each puppy is unique, so always consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns or questions about their care.