Welcoming a newborn puppy into your life can be an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience. However, it is also a big responsibility, and one of the most important things you need to know is how to properly feed your new furry friend.
Tips On How To Take Care Of Newborn Puppies
Keep them warm
Newborn puppies cannot regulate their body temperature, so it's important to keep them warm. You can use a heating pad set on low or a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel to provide warmth. Monitor the temperature and adjust as needed to avoid overheating or chilling.
Feed them frequently
Newborn puppies require frequent feedings, usually every two hours. If the mother is absent, you must feed the puppies using a bottle or syringe. Choose a high-quality puppy formula and follow the instructions carefully. Be sure to burp the puppies after each feeding to avoid gas and bloating.
Monitor their weight gain
Newborn puppies should be gaining weight every day. Weigh each puppy daily and keep a record of its weight. If you notice any puppies are not gaining weight or seem lethargic, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Keep them clean
Newborn puppies cannot eliminate themselves and require stimulation to urinate and defecate. Use a warm, damp cloth or cotton ball to stimulate the area after each feeding gently. Be sure to clean up any messes promptly to avoid infections.
Socialize them
Newborn puppies are very sensitive to their surroundings and need to be socialized early on. Handle them gently and expose them to new sights and sounds gradually. This will help them grow up to be well-adjusted and friendly dogs.
Take them to the vet
Newborn puppies require regular checkups to ensure they are healthy and growing properly. Your veterinarian can provide guidance on feeding, vaccinations, and other important aspects of care. It is important to carefully adhere to their advice.
To keep your newborn puppy healthy and strong, you must know how to properly feed them.Â
How To Properly Feed A Newborn Puppy
- Make sure that their food is secured and stored properly to avoid contamination.
As your newborn puppy reaches their 8th week, ensuring its diet contains enough nutrients and supplements is crucial for its healthy growth and development. Introducing salmon oil for dogs in small amounts can be a beneficial supplement once they reach 8 weeks and beyond, as it contains omega-3 fatty acids that can support brain and eye development, improve coat and skin health, and reduce joint inflammation.
It is important to introduce the supplement gradually to avoid any potential digestive upset and to choose a high-quality supplement that has been purified to remove any potential contaminants.Â
As always, it is best to consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new supplement or making changes to your puppy's diet, as they can provide guidance on the appropriate dosage and frequency of supplementation based on your puppy's individual needs and health status.
Conclusion
Taking care of newborn puppies can be a lot of work, but it's also a rewarding experience. By keeping them warm, feeding them frequently, monitoring their weight gain, keeping them clean, socializing them, and taking them to the vet, you can give them the best start in life possible. With proper care, your puppies will grow up to be healthy and happy dogs.
