Should I wait for the puppy to cry before feeding it by hand

Puppies are one of the most adorable creatures on earth, and taking care of them is a rewarding experience. When it comes to feeding a newborn puppy, many pet owners wonder whether they should wait for the pup to cry or call out before feeding them. This question is quite common, and it's essential to understand the needs of these little furballs to provide them with the best care possible.

Newborn Puppies and Their Needs

Newborn puppies are entirely dependent on their mother's milk for the first few weeks of life. However, in cases where the mother is unavailable, or the litter is too large, pet owners may need to step in and provide artificial feeding. Puppies have different nutritional requirements than adult dogs, and their tiny stomachs can only hold a limited amount of food at a time. It's crucial to feed them the right amount of food at the right intervals to ensure their healthy growth and development.

Understanding Puppies' Feeding Cues

Puppies communicate their needs through various cues, and crying is one of the most common ways they express hunger. Waiting for a puppy to cry before feeding them can be a natural instinct for some pet owners. However, it's not always the best approach. Puppies have small bladders and can become hungry quickly, so waiting for them to cry may lead to them becoming too hungry and agitated.

Instead of waiting for the puppy to cry, it's essential to establish a feeding schedule based on the pup's age and size. Newborn puppies should be fed every two to three hours, around the clock. This frequency ensures they receive the necessary nutrients and helps them grow strong and healthy. As the puppies grow, the feeding intervals can be adjusted accordingly.

Creating a Feeding Routine

Creating a feeding routine is beneficial for both the puppy and the owner. A consistent schedule helps the puppy know when to expect food, reducing the chances of them becoming overly hungry or stressed. It also makes it easier for the owner to monitor the puppy's eating habits and overall health.

When establishing a feeding routine, it's essential to consider the following tips:

- Warm the formula: Puppies are used to their mother's body temperature, so it's crucial to warm the formula to around 95-100 degrees Fahrenheit before feeding them. This temperature is similar to the mother's milk temperature and ensures the puppy is comfortable during feeding.

- Use a proper feeding method: There are various methods to feed a newborn puppy, including bottle-feeding, syringe-feeding, and tube-feeding. Choose a method that works best for you and the puppy, and make sure to use the appropriate size nipple or syringe to prevent choking or aspiration.

- Monitor the puppy's eating habits: Keep track of how much the puppy eats during each feeding and watch for signs of hunger or fullness. Adjust the amount of food as needed to meet their nutritional requirements.

- Burp the puppy: Just like human babies, puppies can swallow air during feeding, which can cause discomfort or gas. After each feeding, gently burp the puppy by holding them against your chest and patting their back.

Conclusion

Feeding a newborn puppy requires careful attention and understanding of their needs. While it may be tempting to wait for the puppy to cry before feeding them, establishing a feeding schedule based on their age and size is a better approach. By creating a consistent routine and monitoring the puppy's eating habits, you can ensure they receive the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development. Remember, a well-fed and happy puppy is a joy to raise.