What should I do if a puppy isn’t latching onto the mother?

If a puppy isn’t latching onto the mother, it is a critical situation that requires immediate attention. Puppies rely on their mother’s milk for essential nutrients, antibodies, and hydration, especially during the first few days of life. Failure to latch can lead to dehydration, malnutrition, and even death if not addressed promptly. Below is a detailed guide on what to do, including practical steps, risks, and when to seek professional help.

1. Assess the situation
First, observe the puppy and the mother closely. Check if the puppy is weak, cold, or unresponsive. Puppies that are too cold or lethargic may struggle to latch. Ensure the puppy is warm, as hypothermia can impair their ability to nurse. Use a heating pad or warm towel to gently warm the puppy if needed, but avoid overheating.

2. Check the mother’s milk supply
Ensure the mother is producing milk. Gently press her mammary glands to see if milk is present. If there is no milk or if the mother seems unwell, she may have a condition like mastitis or be experiencing stress, which can affect milk production. In such cases, consult a veterinarian immediately.

3. Assist the puppy in latching
If the puppy is warm and the mother has milk, try to help the puppy latch. Hold the puppy close to the mother’s nipple and gently guide its mouth to the teat. You may need to express a small amount of milk to encourage the puppy to suckle. Be patient, as this process can take time.

4. Consider supplemental feeding
If the puppy still cannot latch, you will need to provide supplemental feeding. Use a commercial puppy milk replacer, as cow’s milk or other substitutes are not suitable and can cause digestive issues. Feed the puppy using a small bottle or syringe designed for puppies. Feed slowly to avoid aspiration, which can lead to pneumonia.

5. Monitor the puppy’s weight and hydration
Weigh the puppy daily to ensure it is gaining weight. A healthy puppy should gain about 10-15% of its birth weight daily. Check for signs of dehydration, such as dry gums, sunken eyes, or lethargy. If the puppy shows these signs, seek veterinary care immediately.

6. Stimulate elimination
Newborn puppies cannot urinate or defecate on their own and rely on their mother to stimulate these functions by licking their genital area. If the puppy is not nursing, you will need to do this manually. Use a warm, damp cloth to gently rub the puppy’s genital area after each feeding.

7. Watch for signs of illness
Puppies that fail to latch may be weaker or have underlying health issues. Look for signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact a veterinarian right away.

8. Long-term care and prevention
If the puppy continues to struggle with latching, you may need to bottle-feed it until it is strong enough to nurse on its own. Gradually introduce solid food at around 3-4 weeks of age. Ensure the puppy receives regular veterinary check-ups to monitor its growth and development.

9. When to seek professional help
If the puppy remains unable to latch after your efforts, or if the mother is not producing milk, consult a veterinarian immediately. They may recommend additional interventions, such as tube feeding or treating the mother for any underlying conditions.

10. Additional considerations
Sometimes, a puppy’s inability to latch can be due to congenital issues, such as a cleft palate. In such cases, specialized care and feeding techniques are required. Always consult a veterinarian for a thorough evaluation.

In summary, a puppy not latching onto the mother is a serious issue that requires prompt action. By following these steps and seeking professional help when needed, you can give the puppy the best chance of survival and healthy development.