1. Check Noses and Tails:
- Inspect their noses and tails to ensure good blood flow and oxygenation. Healthy noses should be moist, and tails should feel warm to the touch.
2. Umbilical Cord Care:
- Examine the umbilical cords for any signs of redness, swelling, or bleeding. If there are any concerns, consult with a veterinarian.
3. Supplemental Feeding (if needed):
- If the mother is unable or unwilling to nurse, or if there are more puppies than teats, you may need to supplement their feeding with a puppy milk formula.
4. Monitor Body Weight:
- Puppies should be gaining weight regularly, typically 10% to 15% of their birth weight daily. Weigh each puppy and track their growth to ensure they are developing properly.
5. Encourage Elimination:
- While the mother usually stimulates elimination, you can gently rub the genital and anal areas with a soft cotton ball or tissue to help them go potty.
6. Warm Environment:
- Maintain a warm and draft-free environment, as puppies cannot regulate their body temperature effectively at such a young age.
7. Minimal Handling:
- It's best to keep handling to a minimum during this early stage. However, if you need to handle a puppy, always support their head and body gently.
8. Clean and Dry:
- Keep the puppies' living area clean and dry to prevent any health issues.
9. Quiet Surroundings:
- Provide a quiet and calm environment to minimize any stress to the mother and puppies.
10. Monitor Progress:
- Continuously observe the puppies' overall behavior, activity levels, and overall well-being. Watch for any signs of distress, decreased activity, or other abnormalities.
11. Prepare for Deworming:
- Pups might require deworming when they are about two weeks old. Your vet can check the puppies and provide appropriate deworming treatment if needed.
Remember to always consult with your veterinarian for personalized advice based on the specific circumstances of your puppies.