？ Ten-day-old puppies should be fed how?

Newborn Puppies: Nurturing Your Ten-Day-Old Furry Friend

Taking care of a ten-day-old puppy is a delicate and rewarding task. These tiny creatures are dependent on you for everything, from warmth to nutrition. Here’s how to ensure your little furball thrives during these crucial early days.

Feeding Your Puppy

At ten days old, puppies are still very much in the nursing phase. If the mother dog is available and healthy, she should be the primary source of nutrition for the puppies. Her milk provides all the necessary antibodies and nutrients that the puppies need to grow strong and healthy.

If, for any reason, the mother isn’t around, you’ll need to step in and provide a suitable milk replacement. It’s important to use a formula specifically designed for puppies, as it contains the right balance of proteins, fats, and vitamins. Avoid giving your puppy cow’s milk or any other human-grade milk, as these can cause digestive upset.

Feeding Schedule

Puppies at this age need to eat frequently—about every two to three hours. This means you’ll be on a feeding schedule around the clock. Be prepared for some sleepless nights, as their needs don’t stop just because it’s dark outside.

When bottle-feeding, use a small, specially designed puppy bottle or syringe to ensure the puppies don’t ingest too much milk at once, which can lead to aspiration or digestive issues. Gently hold the puppy in an upright position and allow it to nurse at its own pace.

Monitoring Health

Keep a close eye on your puppies’ health. They should be gaining weight steadily, about 10% of their birth weight each day. Weigh them daily to monitor their progress. If you notice any signs of illness, such as lethargy, diarrhea, or vomiting, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Keeping Them Warm

Newborn puppies can’t regulate their body temperature, so it’s crucial to keep them warm. Create a cozy, draft-free environment with a soft bed and a heating pad set on low under one half of the bed. This allows the puppies to move to the warmer or cooler side as needed. Always monitor the temperature to ensure it’s not too hot or too cold.

Socialization and Handling

Even at ten days old, it’s important to start handling your puppies gently. This helps them get used to human touch and will make them more comfortable with people as they grow. Spend a little time each day petting and holding them, but always be gentle and careful not to handle them roughly.

Stimulating Growth

Puppies at this age also need stimulation to help them develop. Gentle massage can promote circulation and digestion. You can also mimic the mother’s (licking) to stimulate elimination by gently wiping their genital and anal areas with a warm, damp cloth after each feeding.

Preventing Infections

Keep the puppies’ living area clean to prevent infections. Change their bedding regularly and clean any areas where they’ve eliminating. Be cautious with cleaning products, as harsh chemicals can be harmful to puppies.

Conclusion

Caring for a ten-day-old puppy is a big responsibility, but with the right knowledge and dedication, you can help your furry friend grow into a healthy, happy dog. Remember to provide consistent nutrition, keep them warm and clean, and start socializing them early. With your love and attention, these tiny creatures will grow into your loyal companions.