My dog gave birth two days ago to four puppies. They have been sucking for two days, but I can't tell if her milk has come enough that the puppies are getting enough. She doesn't really look that full, but the puppies are still sucking. Should I supplement them with puppy formula or wait a while?
2006-09-25 05:05:50 · 4 answers · asked by Renee S 1 in Pets ➔ Dogs
Gently squeeze the nipple to see if milk is coming out. Use a downward motion starting a bit behind the nipple and moving forward.
Make sure she is getting excellent PUPPY food, add some cottage cheese, and also GOATS milk (mix it with water).. She may also need calcium supplements.
If you are not experienced with feeding newborn puppies, have your Vet or Vet Tech SHOW you. You can easily get milk into the lungs of the puppies, which can kill them.
GOOD LUCK!!
2006-09-25 05:19:24 · answer #1 · answered by LittleBitOfSugar 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Are the puppies crying? Do they seem content after sucking? If they were hungry, believe me they'd be crying. If they're full, they settle down and go to sleep. I wouldn't supplement unless the pups are giving signs of being hungry. You can start supplementing them with puppy formula in a few weeks if you want to help the mom out - I always did when they had large litters and the moms were always on vitamins as well.
2006-09-25 05:20:25 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
Renee,
Usually a mother dog already has her milk at the time she gives birth. If it does not look as if she has any I would recommend asking a vet his/her opinion. The pups may indeed need additional nutrition. I do know that you should definately use the puppy formula and not regular milk, as it is not good for their digestive system. Good luck.
2006-09-25 05:15:33 · answer #3 · answered by I know, I know!!!! 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
well the teets should be full of milk before birth most leak for weeks off and on before birth...squeeze and pull down on a nipple to see if milk comes out....some like humans do not make enough to support the babies...if none or very little comes out ....i would hand feed them with puppy formula.. follow the directions it is a lot of work too....if a good bit comes out of the nip. then weigh the pups daily to make sure they are gaining weight...GOOD LUCK !!! i hope all gose well :P :)
2006-09-25 05:34:58 · answer #4 · answered by Bekah 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋