What kind of milk do you give newborn puppies?

Puppies, much like babies, need mother’s milk to grow and develop normally. But what do you do if the puppy is orphaned or rejected by its mother? Fear not! In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about selecting the right milk for your young canine friend.

Cow’s Milk: Not For Puppies

First things first – cow’s milk is not a suitable alternative for newborn puppies. Despite being a staple in many households around the world, approximately 65% of dogs are lactose intolerant^(1).

The inability to digest lactose presents itself as digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea which could be fatal particularly during their early stage of life. So please avoid feeding commercial dairy products!

Puppy Formula: The Perfect Solution

Easily accessible and nutritionally complete formula designed specifically for puppies makes it an ideal choice specially when there are no options left. Milk replacers closely resemble dog’s breastmilk content but lack necessary antibodies from mommy which means that they have shorter duration protection increasing susceptibility against viruses; however they still fulfill essential nutrient requirements including protein and fats³.

Table : Dog Milk Replacers Specifications

Product	Protein Content	Fat Content	Suitable Age Range
Esbilac Powder(3)	33℅	40 %                                     ‍
(0-8 weeks)
(PetAg)                                         ››

No need to worry on nutritional composition because these formulas have been specially formulated considering high quality complex blend of micro and macro-nutrients.

How to Feed a Newborn Puppy?

Feeding newborn puppies is easier said than done. Here’s what you need to know:

Feeding Tools

Bottles: Specialty bottles are available at pet stores made especially for feeding orphaned or rejected puppies. These bottles come with teats that closely mimic the nipple which helps prevent choking and coughing(3).

Syringes: You can also use syringes without needle on softer shell types; although reading the details on labeled portion specifying as oral administration only from pump type infant medications must be considered since some could harm your fur babies due to active ingredients impractical for dogs (2).

Source : US National Library of Medicine-National Institute of Health – Poisonous Ingredients in Common Medications for Humans: Recommendations from Veterinary Toxicologists

Bottle Preparation Tips:

Below is a step-by-step guide to properly prepare formula feedings:

• Check expiry date before purchasing or opening.
• Sterilize all preparation tools including bottle, nipple, and cutter⁴.
• Follow instructions carefully and mix well with warm water making sure it’s not too hot nor cold so as not easily irritate their delicate mouth.

It is essential that each time you feed your pup, wash up after yourself because they have weak immunity against bacteria potentially initiating infections like diarrhea or vomiting.

How Often Should Puppies Be Fed?

Puppy age plays a big part in determining how often pups should be fed:

Age	Meals Per Day	Ounce per Meal
1 week	6–8	= -5
2 weeks	\4–6	= 1/4
3 weeks	\4–5	=¼
4 weeks	\4	= 1/2
5 weeks	\3–4	=1/2

Table : Puppy Feeding Schedule
Source: American Kennel Club

Keep feeding so that they are content, satisfied and stress-free — overfeeding or underfeeding can lead to higher risk of digestive problems. bear in mind dogs use up their calories and energy at a faster rate than human babies therefore the recommended ratios must follow as per label instructions but puppies could roughly need around two-three different ounces daily.

Conclusion

In conclusion, cow’s milk is not suitable for newborn puppies due to lactose intolerance. Milk replacers, designed specifically for puppies and available at pet stores provide complete nutrition for your fur baby if it has been orphaned or rejected by its mama doggo. When feeding, tools such as bottles and syringes should be considered along with attention paid to properly preparing formula mixtures before usage; every food preparation tool must be sterilized prior usage each time just assure safety against bacteria.
Once again keep in mind that keeping an eye on the appropriate age range schedule of feedings advised specifically from labels detailed guidelines which vary depending on their growing stage.

Puppies have a high metabolism hence they grow quickly behind delivering immense fun🐾!

---

References:

¹ Becvarova I., Sedlak J., Bartko T.Polymorphisms within LPH gene affect beta-lactoglobulin concentration in dog’s milk.Canadian journalof veterinary research= Revuecanfadiennede recherchesvétérinaires 2009;73(2):134-135.

² US National Library of Medicine-National Institute of Health – Poisonous Ingredients in Common Medications for Humans: Recommendations from Veterinary Toxicologists

³ Waltham Centre For Pet Nutrition :Development Of A Semi-Moist Puppy Food Meets Nutritional Needs

⁴ Missouri Department of Health Guidelines for Preparation of Infant Formula and Breastmilk Substitute.