Immediately After Birth
* Check for breathing: Ensure the puppy is breathing and has a strong heartbeat. If not, gently stimulate their chest and nose with a soft cloth or your fingers.
* Clean the puppy: Gently wipe the puppy's nose and mouth with a soft, damp cloth to clear any mucus.
* Tie the umbilical cord: If the umbilical cord hasn't already broken, use a clean, sterilized string or dental floss to tie it off about an inch from the puppy's belly. Then, cut the cord with clean, sharp scissors.
* Provide warmth: Newborn puppies are unable to regulate their body temperature, so it's essential to keep them warm. Place them in a cozy, warm spot (like a heated puppy pad or a towel placed on top of a heating pad on low).
* Check for defects: Observe the puppy for any obvious physical defects.
* Monitor the mother: Make sure the mother is caring for the puppies and nursing them. If she seems hesitant or neglectful, you may need to intervene.
Post-Birth Care
* Keep the whelping box clean: Regularly clean the whelping box with a mild disinfectant to prevent infections.
* Weigh the puppies: Weigh each puppy daily to monitor their growth.
* Monitor the mother: Ensure the mother is eating and drinking enough.
* Offer a safe and quiet environment: Keep the puppies in a quiet, undisturbed environment to allow them to rest and bond with their mother.
* Keep the mother and puppies warm: Ensure the temperature in the whelping area stays consistently warm (85-90 degrees Fahrenheit).
* Watch for signs of illness: Observe the puppies for any signs of illness, such as lethargy, diarrhea, or vomiting.
* Introduce solid food: Around three weeks old, the puppies will start to eat solid food. Introduce them to a high-quality puppy food gradually.
* Socialization: Start socializing the puppies as early as possible by exposing them to various sights, sounds, and people in a controlled environment.
Important Notes
* Veterinary care: It's crucial to have a veterinarian check the puppies within the first few days of life to ensure they are healthy and receiving adequate nourishment.
* Be prepared: Having a whelping kit ready with essential supplies like heating pads, towels, and a scale can be very helpful.
* Safety: Keep the puppies in a secure area where they cannot escape or get into trouble.
* Patience: Raising newborn puppies requires a lot of patience and dedication.
If you have any concerns or questions, contact your veterinarian immediately. They can provide valuable advice and support throughout the process.