Information on Newborn Puppies

Newborn puppies require much-needed attention and on a regular basis. Although most mothers do very well in taking care of her pups, it is up to the caregiver to make sure the mother is meeting the nutritional needs of the puppies and taking proper care of them. It is important to be responsible regarding puppy feedings, development and preventative health care. Puppies should be seen by a veterinarian as soon as possible.

  1. Feedings

    • A healthy puppy should be nursing about every two hours until the stomach is full. If they become hungry, they will yelp out for something more. A constant whining puppy may mean that the pup is not getting enough milk and may be swallowing air instead. Healthy puppies will be vigorous and plump. A puppy that may be swallowing air can appear as if it has a full stomach, but after awhile it may lay still and become weak. Puppies can lose up to 10 percent of their body weight in the first 24 hours. After this time period, puppies should steadily gain weight.

    Whelping Box

    • A whelping box can be purchased to keep the puppies and mother comfortable. Newborn puppies are not able to keep their body temperatures warm, therefore keeping the thermostat set to a comfortable temperature is important. Heating lamps are sometimes used for the first couple of days and can be set for 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Refrain from placing the whelping box in the direct path of an air conditioning vent or in the direct line of a draft.

    Keeping Puppies Clean

    • Mothers will bathe the puppies to make sure they are kept clean. They will lick the puppies face, their bellies and even around the anus and tail area to stimulate the puppies to regularly urinate and defecate, soon after feedings. Proper towels should be placed in the whelping box for this reason. If puppies become covered or speckled with their own waste, use a warm cloth to wipe gently, instead of a full bath. Mothers may also lick up the waste.

    Eating and Drinking

    • The puppies will begin imitating their mother by eating and drinking at about 3 weeks old. Mixing milk, warm water and hard kibble in a blender will turn the food into mush, which is appropriate for newborn puppies. Be sure the softened food is placed inside of a shallow dish that will allow the puppies to easily reach it. The puppies should be fed this meal three to four times a day. Each week, increase the amount of food, and decrease the amount of water and milk added. Puppies should be eating dry food by the time they are 7 weeks old.

    7 Weeks Old

    • By the time the puppies reach 7 weeks old, they should be fully weaned from their mother's milk. Puppies should be given a designated sleep and playtime as well as a certain area to relieve themselves. Laying down newspapers or towels may be the easiest way to go about this process if the puppies are kept inside. Be sure the elimination area is kept clean after each use. At this age, puppy vaccinations should now be started by a local veterinarian.