Methods to Feed Newborn Puppies

Nutrition for a newborn puppy is essential in his growth and development. However, on the unfortunate occasion where a puppy cannot nurse from his mother or is rejected by his mother for some reason, humans must intervene to save the life of the puppy.

  1. What to Feed

    • The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) tells readers of its website to feed puppies a commercial canine milk-replacement product specifically made for puppies. Do not use cow's milk because it can cause stomach upset and diarrhea.

      Gayle Kaye, a breeder for Chelsea Collies, says that a homemade formula appropriate for newborn pups consists of a 13-oz. can of evaporated milk, an equal amount of water, 4 ounces of plain yogurt, four egg yolks and a tablespoon of liquid vitamins.

    How to Feed

    • Spoon-feeding formula to a puppy requires patience and finesse. Do not raise the puppy's head as this may cause the formula to fill his lungs. A neater and simpler way of feeding a newborn puppy is to use a dropper.

      Pet specialty shops usually carry special feeding bottles made especially for puppies.

      Drs. Foster and Smith discuss on their website, Peteducation.com, that another popular method is tube feeding. It is clean and effective.

      Tube-feed by gently placing a tube into the front of puppy's mouth, never forcing it in.
      The puppy's swallow reflexively will cause the him to pull the tube into his esophagus. The site warns those wanting to learn this method to have their veterinarian or a qualified professional teach them how to tube-feed.

      2ndchance.info suggests starting the average puppy with 25 to 35 milliliters of formula for every 3.5 ounces the puppy weighs each day.

      As with a human infant, it is recommended that after each feeding the puppy be burped. Hold the puppy up with his belly against your shoulder and gently pat him on the back until he burps.

    When to Feed

    • Feed newborn pups six to eight meals a day, every three to four hours. Like human babies, puppies will make no secret of when they are hungry by crying and becoming agitated.