How to Feed Puppies Artificially: A Step-by-Step Guide
After a puppy is born, its primary source of nutrition is the mother's milk. It is crucial not to introduce any solid food at this stage. In cases where the mother dog is unable or insufficient in providing milk, the owner must step in to provide formula milk for the little one.
1. Opt for Specialized Puppy Formula
Pet stores typically offer specialized puppy bottles and goat's milk formula designed for young dogs. If these are not available instore, they can be purchased from various pet supply websites. When selecting a formula, it's wise to research and compare the reputation and quality of different brands. This will help ensure peace of mind when feeding your puppy. Initially, it's important to use a small amount of formula to avoid overfeeding, as too much can lead to diarrhea in puppies.
2. Avoid Human Formula Milk
Under no circumstances should you feed your puppy human formula milk. Human formulas are formulated to meet the nutritional needs of humans, and their composition, nutrient content, additives, and absorption rates are vastly different from what a puppy requires. Feeding a puppy human formula can not only fail to provide the necessary nutrients for growth but can also lead to digestive issues.
3. Do Not Feed Milk
a. Milk has larger molecules that can be difficult for a puppy's delicate digestive system to process, often resulting in digestive upset.
b. Milk contains a high amount of protein, which can cause an allergic reaction in some puppies.
c. Milk has a high lactose content, and most dogs are lactose intolerant, leading to discomfort or digestive problems.
By being mindful of these guidelines, you can ensure that your young puppy receives the appropriate nutrition and care during its crucial early stages of life.
