When a puppy cannot nurse from its mother, the responsibility falls to the human caregiver to ensure it receives the nutrition needed to thrive. Though this task may seem daunting, with the right information, it’s manageable to help your puppy grow into a healthy dog.
One critical aspect often overlooked by those caring for orphaned pups is the importance of colostrum, the first milk produced by the mother dog after birth. Rich in antibodies, colostrum protects puppies from diseases but must be ingested within the first 12 hours of life to be effective. Without it, a puppy’s ability to fight illnesses is compromised.
If colostrum is unavailable, hand-feeding oral doses of blood plasma from a healthy dog can compensate. If this isn’t possible, maintain extremely sanitary conditions when handling the puppy to minimize disease risk.
Selecting and Preparing Puppy Formula
Several brands of puppy milk formula are available. Consult your veterinarian or a knowledgeable pet supply store employee to choose the best option for your puppy. Mix the formula just before feeding, stirring or shaking thoroughly to eliminate lumps. The formula should be slightly warmer than room temperature. Most nursing bottles hold up to 4 ounces, but ensure the nipple has appropriately sized holes to prevent a flow that’s too fast, which could overwhelm the puppy.
Avoid cradling a puppy like a human infant during feeding. Instead, mimic their natural nursing position by placing them on their stomach. Gently insert the nipple into the puppy’s mouth. For very small puppies, if the nipple seems too large, use a syringe temporarily, switching to a bottle as they grow. Sterilize bottles and syringes by boiling between uses.
Feeding Guidelines and Care
Refer to the formula’s instructions for feeding amounts, which are based on the puppy’s body weight. Overfeeding can cause diarrhea or vomiting, so avoid giving too much. If unsure about the correct amount, consult a veterinarian or animal care specialist.
Feed puppies every 3–4 hours, responding promptly to their cries, even if it’s slightly before the scheduled time. After feeding, burp the puppy by holding it upright against your body and gently patting until it burps, similar to burping a human infant.
Newborn puppies can dehydrate quickly, so if a puppy refuses milk or fails to suck on its own, seek veterinary attention immediately, as this may indicate a serious issue. By providing proper care, you give an orphaned puppy the best chance for a long, healthy life.
