Essential Guidelines for Handfeeding Puppies

In the midst of puppies, there is often a phenomenon of fighting over the teats, which can lead to some pups being unable to access their mother's milk. For these puppies who are not able to get enough breast milk, it's time for the pet parent to step in and provide some extra care!

1. Choosing the Right Formula for Artificial Feeding

Newborn puppies do not yet produce antibodies, while their mothers are producing milk rich in a variety of antibodies. Breast milk and formula milk are different. When bottlefeeding puppies, it's crucial to avoid giving them cow's milk, as their delicate digestive systems are prone to diarrhea. Opt for a specialized puppy milk formula. If this is not available, you can use baby formula mixed with water at a 1:7 ratio, adding 1/4 of powdered calf's liver, one fish oil capsule (without the gelatin shell), and 1/6 of powdered calcium tablets. Mix these ingredients together before feeding.

2. Tools for Artificial Feeding

Feeding tools can include small spoons, sterilized droppers, puppyspecific bottles, disposable syringes without needles, or a bicycle tire inner tube, cut to leave about 1.5 cm at the end. Ensure that the bicycle inner tube is properly sterilized. Here's how to feed a puppy using a puppy bottle.

3. The Art of Artificial Feeding

When bottlefeeding, the puppy's feeding position is key. Gently support the puppy's chin with your left hand, allowing the head to tilt slightly upwards. Hold the bottle in your right hand and gently touch the puppy's nose and mouth with the nipple.

When using a syringe or dropper, be mindful of the pace and amount of milk being administered. Do not feed too quickly or continuously, as this can cause the puppy to choke. If the puppy is not actively taking the nipple, you can trim it to about 0.5 cm. Gently insert the shortened nipple from the side of the puppy's mouth and feed slowly, as puppies usually have a swallowing reflex.

Puppies typically wean around 6 weeks old and can then transition to solid food. Around the onemonth mark, you can try mixing meat broth or porridge with the milk to feed the puppy.

4. Important Considerations for Artificial Feeding

1. Always ensure that feeding utensils are clean and disinfected.

2. The pet parent's hands should also be clean and disinfected during feeding.

3. Warm the puppy milk before feeding. Freshly prepared puppy milk should not be stored for too long; it's best consumed within an hour.

4. Aim to feed the puppy the amount of milk they would normally take in one feeding.

5. After feeding, clean any milk residue from the puppy's mouth and nose, and gently stimulate the puppy's anal area to encourage defecation.