A puppy that is born and hand-fed from birth.

Bringing a newborn puppy into your life is a heartwarming experience, but it also comes with the responsibility of ensuring they get the best start possible. Artificial feeding is often necessary when the mother dog is unavailable or unable to produce enough milk. Here's how to approach this delicate task with care and precision.

Understanding the Basics of Newborn Puppy Nutrition

Newborn puppies are entirely dependent on their mother's milk or a suitable milk replacement for the first few weeks of life. This milk provides essential nutrients, antibodies, and hydration that are crucial for their survival and growth. When artificial feeding is required, it's vital to choose a high-quality puppy milk replacer that closely mimics the composition of a mother's milk.

Choosing the Right Milk Replacer

Selecting the right milk replacer is paramount. Look for a product that is specifically formulated for puppies and contains the necessary vitamins, minerals, and proteins they need. Avoid using cow's milk or other dairy products, as these can be difficult for puppies to digest and may cause diarrhea.

Preparation and Feeding Techniques

Before you begin feeding, it's essential to prepare the milk replacer according to the manufacturer's instructions. The temperature of the milk should be warm, roughly the same as a mother dog's milk, which is around 95-100 degrees Fahrenheit. You can test the milk on the inside of your wrist to ensure it's not too hot.

Feeding Tools

You'll need a feeding bottle designed for puppies or a syringe without a needle to feed the newborn. These tools are designed to mimic the natural nursing process and prevent the puppies from swallowing air, which can lead to colic or aspiration.

Feeding Schedule

Puppies need to be fed frequently, typically every 2-4 hours around the clock. The exact amount of milk will depend on the puppy's size and breed, but a general guideline is to feed them 2-4 tablespoons of milk per pound of body weight daily, divided into equal portions for each feeding.

Feeding Process

When it's time to feed, hold the puppy in a comfortable, upright position. Gently insert the nipple or syringe into the puppy's mouth and allow them to suckle. If the puppy falls asleep or becomes lethargic during feeding, it's a sign they are full. Always burp the puppies after feeding to help expel any air they may have swallowed.

Monitoring Health and Development

Keep a close eye on the puppies' health and development. They should gain weight steadily, and their growth should be in line with breed standards. If you notice any signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy, consult a veterinarian immediately.

Hygiene and Cleanliness

Maintaining hygiene is crucial to prevent infections. Wash your hands before handling the puppies and clean all feeding equipment after each use with hot, soapy water or a pet-safe disinfectant.

Transitioning to Solid Food

At around 3-4 weeks of age, you can start introducing the puppies to solid food. Begin by mixing a small amount of puppy formula with the milk replacer to create a gruel-like consistency. Gradually increase the proportion of solid food over several weeks until the puppies are fully transitioned to their new diet.

Caring for a newborn puppy requires patience, dedication, and a willingness to learn. By following these guidelines, you'll be well on your way to raising healthy, happy puppies. Remember, each puppy is unique, and it's essential to adjust your care based on their individual needs. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian will also ensure they receive the professional support they require to thrive.