How should a nine-day-old Teddy dog be fed?

Feeding a Nine-Day-Old Teddy Bear Puppy

Welcoming a tiny teddy bear puppy into your home is a heartwarming experience. These little fluff balls require tender loving care, especially when they're as young as nine days old. Feeding a newborn puppy is a delicate process that demands attention to detail and a gentle touch. Here's how to nurture your young teddy bear puppy through proper feeding.

Understanding Nutritional Needs

At nine days old, your teddy bear puppy is still very much dependent on its mother's milk for complete nutrition. If the mother is unavailable, you'll need to step in and provide a suitable milk replacement. Puppies of this age require a diet rich in proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals to support their rapid growth and development.

Choosing the Right Milk Replacement

Select a high-quality puppy milk replacement formula that is specifically designed for newborns. Avoid using cow's milk or other dairy products, as these can be difficult for puppies to digest and may cause stomach upset. The formula should be easy to digest and contain all the necessary nutrients your puppy needs.

Feeding Schedule

Newborn puppies need to eat frequently, about every two to four hours. This means you'll be on a feeding schedule throughout the day and night. Be prepared to wake up during the night to feed your little one. Consistency is key, as puppies thrive on routine.

Preparation of Milk Formula

Follow the instructions on the milk replacement formula packaging to prepare the milk. It's crucial to ensure the milk is at the right temperature, not too hot and not too cold. Test the milk on your wrist to make sure it's comfortably warm.

Feeding Technique

Use a small syringe or a bottle designed for feeding newborn puppies to administer the milk. Gently hold your puppy in a horizontal position and allow it to suckle at its own pace. Be patient and avoid forcing the milk into the puppy's mouth, as this can cause them to choke or ingest air, leading to colic.

Monitoring Intake

Keep an eye on how much your puppy is eating. Newborn puppies should consume roughly 1 to 2 tablespoons of formula per pound of body weight per day, spread out over their feeding times. Monitor their weight to ensure they're gaining appropriately, which is a sign that they're getting enough nutrition.

Hydration

In addition to their milk, puppies need to stay hydrated. Ensure that your little one has access to clean water, especially if they're not getting enough fluids from their mother or the milk replacement formula.

Health and Cleanliness

After each feeding, gently burp your puppy to help expel any air swallowed during feeding. Cleanliness is also essential; keep your puppy's feeding area clean and regularly change any bedding to prevent the buildup of bacteria and odors.

Love and Comfort

Remember that feeding is not just about nutrients; it's also about providing comfort and love. Hold and cuddle your puppy during feedings to create a bond and a sense of security.

Caring for a nine-day-old teddy bear puppy is a big responsibility, but with the right approach to feeding and care, you'll help your little furball grow into a healthy, happy dog. Paying attention to your puppy's nutritional needs, maintaining a consistent feeding schedule, and providing a nurturing environment will pave the way for a lifelong companionship filled with joy and love.