Caring for Newborn Puppies

Taking care of newborn puppies is imperative for their excellent health and well-being. Although many dogs give birth without incident, your gentle presence can be reassuring to your dog and ensure the safe delivery of puppies. Weigh tiny and fragile breeds frequently to confirm their weight gain and intake of adequate nutrition. Be sure to keep plenty of fresh water and nutritious food nearby for the nursing mother. Remember that her needs are greater than normal when feeding a litter of puppies.

Things You'll Need

• Large wooden box
• Clean bedding
• Dry cloth
• Scale (baby or postal type)
• Paper and pen
• Clock

Instructions

1. Break the amniotic sac--if the mother does not soon after birth--to allow puppy to breathe. If she does not lick the puppy clean after birth, use a cloth and gently rub the puppy yourself. Place the puppy near a nipple, as nursing helps to stimulate contractions. You also want to make sure each puppy is nursing well and receiving necessary colostrums to boost the immune system.

2. Provide a large wooden box that will accommodate all puppies comfortably. The sides should be high enough so young pups cannot jump out, but low enough to allow the mother easy access. Keep clean towels, rags or absorbent bedding in the box at all times, changing it as needed.

3. Write down the time of each birth if your puppies are to be registered. Document the gender and any identifying marks so you can tell them apart later. Weigh each puppy if you are concerned about weight gain. This is especially important with tiny or fragile breeds.

4. Check each puppy carefully for deformities. Seek immediate veterinary assistance if newborn puppies cry continuously, have diarrhea, physical deformities or do not gain weight. If you are concerned about weight gain, weigh your puppies daily for the first week, then less often if they are gaining.

5. Socializing your new puppies is important, but only handle them once a day or so, until they open their eyes and begin exploring. Handle the puppies more often once they are moving all over the house. You want them to enjoy being around people.

Tips & Warnings

• Give a newborn puppy that is not breathing mouth-to-mouth resuscitation quickly by depressing the tongue and blowing small amounts gently, covering the mouth and nose with your mouth.

• Do not assume a newborn puppy is dead. Rub vigorously; if there is no response, hold the puppy under running water, alternating hot and cold several times.

Resources

• When to spay or neuter new puppies
• Caring for newborn Collie Puppies