What should I do if my dog is not cleaning her puppies?

If your dog is not cleaning her puppies, it is important to take immediate action to ensure the health and survival of the newborns. Cleaning the puppies is a critical part of the birthing process, as it helps stimulate their breathing, removes the amniotic sac, and encourages circulation. If the mother is not performing this task, it could be due to several reasons, such as inexperience, stress, illness, or exhaustion. Here is a detailed guide on what to do in this situation:

1. Assess the situation: First, observe the mother and puppies closely. If the mother is not cleaning the puppies, check to see if she is showing any signs of distress, illness, or fatigue. If she appears unwell or overly stressed, it may be necessary to intervene immediately.

2. Clean the puppies yourself: If the mother is not cleaning the puppies, you will need to step in. Start by gently removing the amniotic sac from each puppy's face using a clean, soft towel. Be very careful not to pull too hard or damage the delicate skin. Once the sac is removed, use the towel to gently rub the puppy in a circular motion to stimulate breathing and circulation. Pay special attention to the nose and mouth to ensure the airways are clear.

3. Dry the puppies: After cleaning, use a dry towel to thoroughly dry each puppy. This helps prevent them from getting cold, as newborn puppies are unable to regulate their body temperature effectively. Make sure to keep the puppies warm by placing them in a clean, dry, and warm environment. You can use a heating pad set on low or a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel, but ensure it is not too hot and that the puppies can move away if they get too warm.

4. Monitor the puppies: Keep a close eye on the puppies to ensure they are breathing properly and are active. Newborn puppies should be moving around and attempting to nurse within the first hour after birth. If any puppy appears lethargic, weak, or is not nursing, it may need additional care or veterinary attention.

5. Encourage the mother to care for her puppies: Sometimes, a mother dog may need a little encouragement to start caring for her puppies. Gently place the cleaned and dried puppies near her nipples to encourage nursing. If she is still reluctant, you can try to express a small amount of milk from her nipples and let the puppies taste it. This can sometimes stimulate her maternal instincts.

6. Seek veterinary advice: If the mother continues to show no interest in her puppies or if you notice any signs of illness in either the mother or the puppies, it is crucial to contact your veterinarian immediately. There could be underlying health issues that need to be addressed. Additionally, if the mother is not producing milk or if the puppies are not nursing effectively, your vet may recommend supplemental feeding with a puppy milk replacer.

7. Provide a calm and supportive environment: Stress can play a significant role in a mother dog's ability to care for her puppies. Ensure that the mother has a quiet, comfortable, and safe space to rest and bond with her puppies. Minimize disturbances and provide her with plenty of fresh water and high-quality food to support her recovery and milk production.

8. Long-term care: As the puppies grow, continue to monitor their health and development. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to ensure they are growing properly and receiving the necessary vaccinations. If the mother continues to struggle with caring for her puppies, you may need to take on more of the caregiving responsibilities, including feeding, cleaning, and socializing the puppies.

In summary, if your dog is not cleaning her puppies, it is important to step in and provide the necessary care to ensure their survival. Clean and dry the puppies, encourage the mother to nurse, and seek veterinary advice if needed. By providing a supportive environment and monitoring the health of both the mother and puppies, you can help ensure a successful and healthy start for the newborns.