A human may need to care for a newborn puppy if the mother dog has refused to care for it, the newborn has severe medical issues or the mother dog is gone or requires medical attention. Should you find yourself with the task of caring for a newborn puppy, remember that the first few days are the hardest. Newborn puppies mature much faster than infants mature and only need round the clock attention for the first few weeks if healthy.
Things You'll Need
- Puppy milk formula
- Bottle and nipples
- Small kennel
- Towels
- Blanket
- Puppy food
- Surgical gloves
- Paper towels
Instructions
Care for a Newborn Puppy
Wrap the newborn puppy in a clean towel and keep it warm while you call a licensed veterinarian and get specific instructions for care. Tell the veterinarian everything you know about the birth and the mother dog. Check for any ailments and inform the veterinarian.
Purchase powdered puppy milk and a bottle with an extra small nipple. Mix the milk according to package directions. Offer formula every two hours for the first week. Feed as needed after the first week. Clean excess formula from the puppy's face and chest. Poke larger holes in the nipple if enough milk is not passing through. Switch to a smaller nipple if choking occurs.
Manually stimulate a newborn puppy to encourage urination and defecation. Put on a rubber surgery glove and lightly brush the lower abdomen and anus. Repeat the process every time it wakes up and about 20 minutes after feeding. Use a paper towel to clean up. This stimulation is critical to the health of a newborn puppy.
Purchase a small kennel to provide safe housing. Use an open-air kennel for easier viewing while the puppy is sleeping. Line the kennel with a clean, warm blanket. Keep the kennel in close proximity to the caregiver so distress is heard easily.
Watch for signs of proper development in the newborn puppy. Ears open by 2 to 3 weeks and eyes open at 3 weeks of age. The small animal should be pulling itself along within hours of birth and standing in a day or two. Puppies become fully mobile by 3 to 4 weeks of age.
Start a soft diet at 4 to 5 weeks old. Soak a quality dry puppy food in water until it is the consistency of oatmeal. Mash the soaked food with a fork so the pup can easily take small bites.
Find a good home for the pup if you do not plan to keep it. Find a provider sooner if you cannot give the needed attention. Check local shelters for daycare services while you work.