How to Feed a 2 Day Old Puppy

For newborn puppies, the absolute best food comes from their mothers. If they are orphaned or abandoned, however, you may have to resort to hand-feeding. Here's some easy steps to ensure proper nutrition for the little ones.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• blankets
• bottle
• puppy formula
• water
• stove or microwave to warm the food
• a big heart!

1. Before adventuring off to start hand-feeding your puppies, you probably will want to see if there are any available foster moms out there, as a puppy's best nutrition will come from a nursing mother.

2. If a foster mom cannot be found, be sure to have a warm snuggly blanket to keep the little pup(s) warm, and the proper bottles (or feeding syringes, if the pups are tiny) and formula available.

3. Prepare the formula according to the directions, usually adding a set amount of water per ounces of formula. Make sure the formula is warm, but not hot. It should be about 100 degrees F, or 38 degrees C. Be sure to make fresh each day.

4. Be very careful that the puppy does not breathe in the formula and that the nipple hole is large enough to pass the formula so the pup doesn't suck in air.

5. Feed the pup(s) about 4 times a day, and don't forget to help them "wet" after each feeding. The mom would lick them to encourage them to pee and eliminate, you should wet a piece of cloth or toweling and rub their bottom gently after each feeding to encourage them in this practice. They should be able to eliminate on their own at about 3 weeks of age.

6. At about 3-4 weeks old they can be started on puppy food gradually, and fully weaned to it by 6-8 weeks old when they would normally be OK to leave mom.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't forget that as with people, each puppy is different and different breeds/sizes will require different amounts of food to be full. Just watch for a full belly and well-fed puppy smiles!
• Feed all the puppies in your care at approximately the same time and amounts so that none are left out.
• This is not a substitute for proper veterinary care. Be sure to take care of all your pup's health needs with proper vaccinations, and neuter or spay them to prevent overpopulation.

[Alisiane]

on 10/7/2008 Puppies and dogs have always been my soft spot. My little girl is getting a dog for Christmas this year - probably a shelter rescue, so not a puppy, but this is still really good info that you never know when you might need!