How should a newborn puppy that is 1 day old be fed?

Bringing a new puppy into your life is a joyous occasion, and taking care of a newborn puppy, especially one that's just a day old, requires gentle and informed care. Newborn puppies are delicate and dependent, relying on their mother for warmth, nutrition, and immunity. If you find yourself in the situation where you need to care for a newborn pup, here's what you should know about feeding and nurturing your tiny furball.

Understanding Newborn Puppy Needs

Newborn puppies are born with their eyes closed and ears sealed shut. They are unable to regulate their body temperature, so it's crucial to keep them warm. A whelping box with a heating pad or a warm blanket can help maintain the right temperature. Puppies also can't walk or eat on their own, so they depend on their mother or you for all their needs.

Mother's Milk is Best

The best nutrition for a newborn puppy is its mother's milk. It provides all the necessary nutrients and antibodies that the pup needs to grow strong and healthy. If the mother is available and able to nurse her puppies, let nature take its course. Ensure that each pup gets a chance to nurse and receives colostrum, the nutrient-rich first milk that gives them immunity.

Feeding Orphaned Puppies

If the mother is unavailable or unable to care for her puppies, you'll need to step in. Newborn puppies should be fed every two to three hours around the clock, which means you'll be on a strict feeding schedule, especially during the night. You'll need to use a milk replacement formula specifically designed for puppies. Cow's milk or human baby formula are not suitable as they don't meet the nutritional needs of a puppy.

Choosing the Right Formula

Select a high-quality puppy milk replacement formula that's easy to digest and rich in calories and nutrients. These formulas are usually available in powder or liquid form. Powdered formulas are more economical but require proper mixing to ensure the right consistency. Follow the instructions on the packaging to mix the formula correctly.

Feeding Techniques

Newborn puppies can't lap milk like older dogs, so you'll need to feed them with a bottle or syringe. Feeding bottles designed for puppies have a nipple that allows them to suckle comfortably. Gently hold the puppy in an upright position to prevent milk from entering its lungs. After feeding, burp the pup gently by holding it against your shoulder and patting its back.

Monitoring Health and Growth