How to feed newborn puppies
Feeding newborn puppies is a job that requires care and patience, especially for newborn puppies, whose immune and digestive systems are very fragile. Correct feeding methods not only ensure the healthy growth of puppies, but also avoid many potential health problems. This article will introduce the feeding method of newborn puppies in detail and provide structured data for reference.
1. Feeding frequency for newborn puppies
How often you feed newborn puppies depends on their age and weight. Generally speaking, newborn puppies need to be fed every 2-3 hours, and as they grow, the feeding frequency can be gradually reduced. The following are feeding frequency recommendations for puppies of different ages:
| age | Feeding frequency | Amount of milk per feeding |
|---|---|---|
| 0-2 weeks | Every 2-3 hours | 5-10ml |
| 2-4 weeks | Every 3-4 hours | 10-20ml |
| 4-6 weeks | Every 4-5 hours | 20-30ml |
2. Choose the right milk powder
Newborn puppies have very sensitive digestive systems and cannot be fed milk directly because the lactose in milk may cause diarrhea. It is recommended to choose milk powder specially designed for puppies. This type of milk powder usually contains nutrients suitable for puppies. Here are several common puppy milk powder brands and their characteristics:
| brand | Features | Applicable age |
|---|---|---|
| PetAg | High protein, easy to digest | 0-8 weeks |
| Royal Canin | Rich in probiotics | 0-6 weeks |
| Nutri-Vet | Added vitamins and minerals | 0-4 weeks |
3. Selection of feeding tools
When feeding a newborn puppy, it is important to choose the right tools. Common feeding tools include bottles and syringes. Here is a comparison of the pros and cons of the two tools:
| Tools | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| baby bottle | Easy to use and suitable for long-term feeding | May not be suitable for very small dogs |
| syringe | Precisely control the amount of milk feeding | Operation requires skills |
4. Feeding precautions
1.temperature control: The milk temperature needs to be controlled at around 38°C before feeding. Too high or too low a temperature may cause harm to puppies.
2.Breastfeeding position: When feeding, the puppy should be placed with its belly facing down to prevent milk from entering the trachea and causing suffocation.
3.Observe reaction: After feeding, it is necessary to observe whether the puppy has vomiting, diarrhea and other abnormal reactions. If there is any abnormality, seek medical attention in time.
4.Cleanliness and hygiene: Feeding tools need to be cleaned thoroughly after each feeding to avoid bacterial growth.
5. Transition from weaning period
When the puppy reaches 4-6 weeks, weaning can begin gradually. During the weaning period, the amount of milk should be gradually reduced, and soft dog food should be introduced at the same time. The following are transition recommendations for weaning:
| Weekly age | Milk volume ratio | Soft dog food ratio |
|---|---|---|
| 4 weeks | 70% | 30% |
| 5 weeks | 50% | 50% |
| 6 weeks | 30% | 70% |
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What should I do if my puppy doesn’t eat milk?
A: It may be that the milk temperature is not appropriate or the puppy is unwell. It is recommended to check the milk temperature and observe whether the puppy has other abnormal symptoms.
Q: What should I do if my puppy has diarrhea?
A: Diarrhea may be caused by unsuitable milk powder or overfeeding. It is recommended to change the brand of milk powder and reduce the amount of milk fed. If symptoms persist, seek medical attention promptly.
Q: How to tell if the puppy is full?
A: A puppy that is full will usually show a sense of satisfaction, stop sucking and fall asleep quietly. If your puppy is still restless, he may not be getting enough.
Through the above methods, you can take better care of your newborn puppies and ensure they grow up healthily. If in any doubt, it is recommended to consult a professional veterinarian.
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