Newborn puppies should spend their time feeding and sleeping; they are not very playful or active for the first week. Puppies that nurse poorly, cry constantly, or do not sleep with the rest of the litter are in trouble and should be examined by the veterinarian. Ideally the puppies should be weighed shortly after birth and should be expected to gain 5% to 10% of their birth weight daily. (A small weight loss in the first day of life is normal but this should be less than 10% of their initial weight.) Puppies that do not gain weight properly are in trouble and should be checked by the veterinarian. It is helpful if puppies are weighed at least daily to be sure they are growing properly. Very young puppies have clear or slightly yellow-tinged urine. Obviously yellow urine is a sign of dehydration.

If you think there is a problem with the mother or any of the puppies, contact your veterinarian. Examination may be needed for the mother and entire litter, not just the individual who appears sick.

Most dogs are excellent mothers and problems are few. The basic rule is to seek veterinary care if she seems to feel sick or if she ceases to care for her young. Puppies nurse until they are about 6 weeks old and then may be adopted by new homes at 8 - 12 weeks of age.

Puppies need to be dewormed at 2, 4, 6, 8 weeks of age. We will be happy to dispense dewormer and instructions so you can do this at home. Please see our "Puppy Checklist" handout for further information regarding our recommended deworming and vaccination schedule.

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References: Portions of this article were taken from these articles:

Freshman, Joni L. Dvm, MS, DACVIM. The Dam's The Thing: Care Of The Pregnant Bitch. Veterinary Information Network, Inc. www.veterinarypartner.com.

Birthing Puppies. VeterinaryPartner.com. Veterinary Information Network, Inc. www.veterinarypartner.com