Questions tagged [newborn]
How can you prevent infections in newborn puppies?
Category: Reproduction and Breeding
Preventing infections in newborn puppies is a critical aspect of ensuring their health and survival during the first few weeks of life. Newborn puppies are highly vulnerable to infections due to their underdeveloped immune systems, which rely heavily on maternal antibodies passed through the mother'...
What is fading puppy syndrome, and how can it be prevented?
Category: Reproduction and Breeding
Fading puppy syndrome is a term used to describe a condition where newborn puppies fail to thrive and often die within the first few weeks of life. This syndrome is not a specific disease but rather a collection of symptoms and outcomes that result from various underlying causes. It is a heartbreaki...
How often should newborn puppies feed from their mother?
Category: Reproduction and Breeding
Newborn puppies should feed from their mother frequently, as their nutritional needs are high and their stomachs are very small. During the first few weeks of life, puppies rely entirely on their mother's milk for nourishment, which provides essential nutrients, antibodies, and hydration. The feedin...
What is the role of colostrum in newborn puppies?
Category: Reproduction and Breeding
Colostrum plays a critical role in the health and development of newborn puppies. It is the first milk produced by the mother dog, also known as the dam, immediately after giving birth. This nutrient-rich fluid is essential for providing puppies with vital antibodies, nutrients, and growth factors t...
How can you tell if a puppy is healthy after birth?
Category: Reproduction and Breeding
Determining if a puppy is healthy after birth involves a combination of observation, physical examination, and understanding normal developmental milestones. A healthy puppy will exhibit certain behaviors, physical characteristics, and growth patterns that indicate proper development. Below is a det...
What are the signs of dehydration in newborn puppies?
Category: Whelping
Dehydration in newborn puppies is a serious condition that requires immediate attention. Newborn puppies are particularly vulnerable to dehydration because they have a high surface area to body weight ratio, making them lose fluids more quickly than adult dogs. Additionally, their kidneys are not fu...
What should I do if my dog is not cleaning her puppies?
Category: Whelping
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 mo...
How do I know if my dog is producing enough colostrum?
Category: Whelping
Colostrum is the first milk produced by a mother dog (bitch) after giving birth, and it is crucial for the health and survival of newborn puppies. It is rich in antibodies, nutrients, and growth factors that help protect the puppies from infections and support their early development. Determining wh...
How do I weigh newborn puppies to monitor their growth?
Category: Whelping
Weighing newborn puppies is a critical part of monitoring their health and development during the first few weeks of life. Puppies should be weighed daily to ensure they are gaining weight consistently, as this is a key indicator of their overall well-being. Below is a detailed guide on how to weigh...
What should I do if my dog is not grooming her puppies?
Category: Whelping
If your dog is not grooming her puppies, it is important to address the situation promptly, as maternal grooming is critical for the health and development of newborn puppies. Grooming helps stimulate circulation, aids in digestion, and encourages elimination, as puppies cannot urinate or defecate o...