While finding adorable newborn puppies for sale can be exciting, unexpected situations can arise. If you find yourself caring for orphaned puppies, it’s crucial to understand their specific needs. Unlike adult dogs, newborns require constant attention and specialized care to survive and thrive.
The most significant challenge is that newborn puppies cannot regulate their body temperature. In their natural state, they rely on their mother’s warmth to stay comfortable. Without their mother, you’ll need to create a warm and draft-free environment. A cardboard box lined with soft towels or blankets can work well. Place a heating lamp above the box, ensuring there’s a cooler area for the puppies to escape to if they get too hot. It’s vital to monitor the temperature with a thermometer, aiming for a range of 95°F to 99°F (35°C to 37.2°C) during the first week, gradually increasing to 100°F to 102°F (37.8°C to 38.9°C) by the fourth week.
Another critical aspect of caring for orphaned puppies is feeding. They require frequent meals, typically every two hours, around the clock. Since they can’t nurse from their mother, you’ll need to bottle-feed them with a commercial puppy milk replacer, readily available at pet stores. Look for a product specifically designed for newborn puppies, as it will contain the necessary nutrients for proper development.
Feeding requires patience and a gentle touch. Hold the puppy upright, mimicking a natural nursing position. Make a small X in the nipple of the bottle to control the milk flow. It shouldn’t be too forceful, or the puppy might choke. Pay close attention to ensure the puppy swallows the milk and isn’t inhaling it. Gurgling or milk coming out of the mouth are signs of feeding issues, and you should stop and consult a veterinarian immediately.
Newborn puppies also lack the ability to eliminate waste on their own. In their natural environment, the mother dog licks their genitals to stimulate urination and defecation. You’ll need to mimic this process by gently rubbing the puppy’s genitals with a warm, damp cotton ball after each feeding.
Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial for newborn puppies. Since their mother wouldn’t be cleaning them anymore, you’ll need to keep their bedding clean and dry. Change the towels or blankets regularly to prevent the spread of bacteria. Avoid bathing the puppies until they are at least three weeks old, as this can disrupt their delicate body temperature regulation.
Remember, newborn puppies are susceptible to illnesses. While searching for newborn puppies for sale, responsible breeders typically de-worm the puppies before selling them. However, if you’re caring for orphaned puppies, it’s essential to schedule a visit to a veterinarian at around six weeks old. The vet can perform a thorough checkup, de-worm the puppies if necessary, and provide vital vaccinations to protect them from preventable diseases.
Raising orphaned newborn puppies is a significant responsibility that demands dedication and vigilance. By providing them with a warm environment, proper nutrition, and mimicking their mother’s care, you can help these vulnerable creatures survive and grow into healthy, happy dogs. However, it’s important to remember that the ideal scenario is for newborn puppies to be with their mother. If you’re considering getting a puppy, always look for reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs and ensure the puppies are weaned and properly socialized before going to their new homes.
