Can puppies drink milk? How should you feed them?

Can Puppies Drink Milk? How to Properly Feed Your Newborn Puppies

Understanding the Basics

When you bring home a litter of newborn puppies, one of the first questions that might come to mind is whether they can drink milk. The answer is yes, puppies can drink milk, but it's essential to understand the specifics. Newborn puppies rely on their mother's milk for the first few weeks of life. This milk provides them with the necessary nutrients and antibodies to help them grow strong and healthy.

Mother's Milk vs. Formula

If the puppies are orphaned or the mother is unable to nurse them, you'll need to step in and provide a suitable milk replacement. It's crucial to avoid giving them cow's milk or any other type of milk intended for humans. Puppies lack the enzyme lactase needed to digest lactose found in cow's milk, which can lead to digestive issues like diarrhea.

Instead, opt for a specially formulated puppy milk replacement. These formulas are designed to mimic the nutrients found in a mother's milk and are easily digestible for puppies. They come in powdered or liquid form and can be found at most pet stores.

Feeding Schedule

Newborn puppies need to be fed every two to three hours around the clock. This may seem like a lot, but it's vital for their survival and growth. Use a syringe or a bottle designed for feeding puppies to give them the milk replacement. Be sure to warm the formula to room temperature before feeding to avoid shocking their systems.

Amount of Milk

The amount of milk a puppy needs will depend on its size and breed. As a general rule of thumb, puppies should consume about 1/4 to 1/2 ounce of milk per ounce of body weight per day. For example, a 1-pound puppy should drink between 1/4 and 1/2 cup of milk each day. Divide this amount into the feedings you provide throughout the day.

Monitoring Health and Development

While feeding your puppies, it's important to monitor their health and development. Puppies should gain weight steadily each day. If you notice any signs of illness, such as lethargy, diarrhea, or failure to gain weight, consult your veterinarian immediately.

Transitioning to Solid Food

At around four weeks old, you can start introducing your puppies to solid food. Begin by mixing a small amount of puppy formula with the dry kibble, creating a gruel-like consistency. As the puppies get used to the texture and taste, gradually increase the amount of kibble and decrease the formula until they are eating solid food exclusively.

Conclusion

Feeding newborn puppies requires careful attention and dedication. By providing them with the right milk replacement, following a proper feeding schedule, and monitoring their health, you can ensure they grow into happy, healthy dogs. Remember, the early stages of a puppy's life are crucial for their development, so it's essential to get their nutrition right from the start.