Feeding a puppy by hand from day one to fifteen.

Bringing a newborn puppy into your life is a heartwarming experience, but it comes with the huge responsibility of ensuring their proper care and growth. Handfeeding a puppy from day one to fifteen requires dedication, knowledge, and a gentle touch. Here’s how to navigate this critical period with practical advice and tips.

Understanding the Basics

Newborn puppies are entirely dependent on their mother for warmth, nutrition, and hygiene. If the mother is unavailable or unable to care for her litter, it falls to you to step in. Puppies need to be fed every two to three hours around the clock, which can be exhausting but is vital for their survival.

Choosing the Right Formula

Select a high-quality puppy milk replacement formula that closely mimics a mother’s milk. It should contain the right balance of proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Avoid using cow’s milk or other dairy products as they can cause digestive upset.

Feeding Techniques

To feed a puppy, you’ll need a feeding bottle designed for newborns or a syringe without a needle. Gently hold the puppy in a horizontal position and allow it to nurse at its own pace. Be patient, as puppies can be slow eaters. If the puppy is having trouble latching on, you may need to guide the nipple to its mouth.

Monitoring Intake

Puppies should consume roughly 1 to 2 tablespoons of formula per pound of body weight per day, spread out over their feedings. Keep track of how much each puppy is eating to ensure they are getting enough nutrition. Underfeeding can lead to hypoglycemia, while overfeeding can cause digestive issues.

Stimulating Elimination

After each feeding, gently stimulate the puppy’s genital area with a warm, damp cloth to encourage urination and defecation. This mimics the mother’s natural licking behavior and is crucial for the puppies to eliminate waste.

Keeping Them Warm

Newborn puppies can’t regulate their body temperature, so it’s essential to keep them warm. Use a heating pad set on low or a warm water bottle wrapped in a blanket to create a cozy environment. Make sure the puppies can move away from the heat source if they get too warm.

Health and Hygiene

Keep the puppies clean by gently wiping them with a damp cloth. Be on the lookout for signs of illness, such as listlessness, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you notice any of these symptoms, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Socialization and Handling

From day one, handle the puppies with care and gently stroke them to get them used to human touch. This early socialization is critical for their development. As they grow, introduce them to new experiences and sounds to help them become well-adjusted adults.

Transitioning to Solids

Around day ten to twelve, you can start introducing your puppies to solid food. Begin by mixing a small amount of puppy formula with high-quality puppy food to create a gruel-like consistency. Gradually increase the amount of solid food and decrease the formula over several days.

Monitoring Growth

Keep a close eye on the puppies’ growth and development. They should gain weight steadily, doubling their birth weight within the first week. If you notice any discrepancies, consult your vet for advice.

Caring for Newborn puppies is a round-the-clock commitment that requires careful attention to their nutritional, physical, and emotional needs. With patience and love, you can help these tiny creatures grow into healthy, happy dogs.