Newborn Puppy Care Week by Week: Neonatal Care and Development

At a Glance

Newborn puppy care requires precise management of temperature, nutrition, hygiene, and health monitoring during the first eight weeks of life. Puppies are born with immature organ systems and depend entirely on the dam or a human caregiver for survival. The table below summarizes critical care priorities by week.

Understanding Neonatal Puppy Physiology

Newborn puppies are born with immature body systems that require intensive management during the first three weeks of life. The neonatal period, defined as birth through the first 14 days, is the most vulnerable time for puppy survival. Puppies cannot regulate their own body temperature, cannot see or hear, cannot eliminate waste without stimulation, and have limited immune protection beyond what they receive from the dam's colostrum.

The Merck Veterinary Manual provides comprehensive guidance on neonatal care, emphasizing that puppies depend entirely on external support for thermoregulation, nutrition, and elimination during the first two to three weeks of life. Breeders and owners must understand these limitations to provide appropriate care.

Body temperature regulation is the most critical immediate concern. Puppies are born with a body temperature of approximately 95-99°F (35-37°C) and cannot shiver to generate heat. They rely on the dam's body heat and environmental warmth to maintain core temperature. Without adequate heat, puppies become hypothermic, which slows digestion, reduces immune function, and can be fatal within hours.

The immune system of newborn puppies is also immature. They receive passive immunity through colostrum, the first milk produced by the dam, which contains antibodies that protect against common pathogens. This colostrum must be ingested within the first 12-24 hours after birth because the puppy's intestinal lining can only absorb these large antibody molecules during this narrow window. After 24 hours, the gut closes to antibody absorption, and the puppy relies entirely on the antibodies it has already absorbed.

The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) provides standards for animal health and welfare that apply to breeding operations, including requirements for neonatal care. These standards emphasize the importance of providing appropriate nutrition, temperature control, and veterinary oversight during the neonatal period.

Week 1: The Critical First Days

Temperature Management

During the first week of life, puppies cannot regulate their body temperature. The environmental temperature in the whelping area must be maintained at 85-90°F (29.5-32°C) for the first week. This temperature should be measured at the level where the puppies are lying, not at human eye level. Use a thermometer placed in the puppy sleeping area to verify temperature.

Provide a heat source that allows puppies to move away if they become too warm. Safe options include a heat lamp positioned at one end of the whelping box, a heating pad set on low placed under only half of the box, or a commercial puppy warmer. Never place a heat source directly under all puppies because they cannot move away if they become overheated. Overheating can cause dehydration, panting, and death.

Monitor puppies for signs of temperature distress. Puppies that are too cold will huddle together, cry continuously, and feel cool to the touch. Puppies that are too hot will spread out away from the heat source, pant, and may become restless. Adjust the heat source based on puppy behavior and body temperature readings.

Take rectal temperatures daily during the first week. Normal neonatal temperature is 95-99°F (35-37°C). If a puppy's temperature drops below 94°F (34.4°C), warm the puppy gradually using body heat or a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel. Do not warm a hypothermic puppy rapidly because this can cause shock. Contact a veterinarian if a puppy cannot maintain body temperature despite environmental support.

Colostrum and Feeding

Colostrum intake within the first 12-24 hours after birth is essential for puppy survival. Colostrum provides antibodies, nutrients, and growth factors that support the immune system and digestive tract development. The composition of colostrum and its relationship to neonatal outcomes has been studied in dogs, with research indicating that the microbiota of colostrum may influence neonatal health.

Ensure each puppy nurses within the first two hours after birth. Puppies that are weak, small, or slow to nurse may need assistance latching onto a nipple. Rotate puppies to different nipples during feedings to ensure all puppies receive colostrum from multiple mammary glands.

After the first 24 hours, puppies should nurse every 1-2 hours around the clock. A healthy puppy will nurse vigorously, sleep quietly between feedings, and have a full rounded belly after nursing. Puppies that cry excessively, appear restless, or fail to gain weight may not be receiving adequate milk.

Weigh each puppy at the same time every day using a digital kitchen scale that measures in grams. Record the weight in a log. Puppies should gain 5-10% of their birth weight daily during the first week. A puppy that loses weight for two consecutive days or fails to gain weight for 24 hours requires veterinary evaluation.

Elimination Stimulation

Newborn puppies cannot urinate or defecate without stimulation. The dam stimulates elimination by licking the puppy's genital and anal area after each feeding. In the absence of the dam, or to supplement her care, use a warm damp cotton ball or soft cloth to gently rub the puppy's genital area after each feeding. Stimulate until the puppy produces urine and stool.

Normal urine is pale yellow and odorless. Normal stool in a nursing puppy is soft, formed, and yellow-brown in color. Diarrhea, constipation, or failure to eliminate after stimulation requires veterinary attention.

Weight Monitoring

Daily weight measurement is the most reliable indicator of puppy health during the first week. Use a consistent scale and weigh at the same time each day, preferably before the first morning feeding. Record each puppy's weight in a log that includes date, time, weight in grams, and any observations about behavior or health.

A healthy puppy should double its birth weight by the end of the first week. Puppies that fail to gain weight, lose weight, or gain weight slowly may have inadequate milk intake, illness, or congenital abnormalities. Contact a veterinarian if any puppy shows poor weight gain.

Common Failure Patterns in Week 1

Fading puppy syndrome is the most common cause of neonatal death during the first week. Puppies with fading puppy syndrome appear normal at birth but fail to thrive, becoming weak, lethargic, and unable to nurse. Causes include inadequate colostrum intake, hypothermia, hypoglycemia, infection, and congenital defects.

Signs of fading puppy syndrome include continuous crying, restlessness, failure to nurse, weight loss, low body temperature, and weakness. Puppies showing these signs require immediate veterinary evaluation. Early intervention improves survival chances.

Hypothermia is the most preventable cause of neonatal death. Puppies that become cold stop nursing, their digestion slows, and their immune function decreases. Maintain environmental temperature carefully and monitor puppy body temperature regularly.

Hypoglycemia occurs when puppies do not receive adequate nutrition. Signs include weakness, lethargy, muscle twitching, and seizures. Puppies with hypoglycemia need immediate veterinary care.

Week 2: Sensory Development Begins

Eye and Ear Development

During the second week, puppies begin to open their eyes, typically between 10 and 14 days of age. The eyes open gradually, starting from the inner corner and progressing outward. Both eyes should open within a few days of each other. Do not force the eyes open because this can damage the developing cornea.

Monitor eyes for signs of infection or abnormality. Normal eyes are clear and bright after opening. Discharge, swelling, crusting, or failure to open by 14 days requires veterinary evaluation. Some breeds, particularly those with short noses, may take longer to open their eyes.

Ear canals begin to open during the second week, usually between 10 and 14 days. Puppies will startle at loud noises as their hearing develops. Avoid loud noises near the whelping area during this sensitive period.

Continued Temperature Support

Environmental temperature can be reduced slightly during the second week to 80-85°F (26.7-29.5°C). Puppies are still unable to regulate their body temperature effectively and continue to need external heat sources. Monitor puppy behavior and body temperature to determine if adjustments are needed.

Puppies that are too cold will continue to huddle and cry. Puppies that are too warm will spread out and pant. Adjust the heat source based on these observations.

Feeding and Weight Gain

Puppies continue to nurse every 2-3 hours during the second week. The dam's milk production should increase to meet the growing puppies' needs. Monitor the dam for signs of mastitis, which includes hot, swollen, or painful mammary glands. Mastitis requires veterinary treatment.

Continue daily weight monitoring. Puppies should gain 5-10% of their body weight daily. By the end of the second week, puppies should weigh approximately two to three times their birth weight.

Elimination

Puppies still require stimulation to eliminate during the second week. The dam will continue to stimulate elimination, but orphaned puppies or those with a dam that is not cleaning them adequately need human assistance. Continue to stimulate after each feeding until puppies begin to eliminate on their own, which typically occurs around three weeks of age.

Handling and Socialization

Begin gentle handling of puppies during the second week. Brief daily handling helps puppies become accustomed to human contact and reduces stress later in life. Handle each puppy for a few minutes daily, supporting the body fully and avoiding sudden movements.

The influence of maternal care on behavioral responses in puppies has been studied, with research indicating that early handling and maternal interaction affect how puppies respond to new environments and social stimuli later in life. Consistent gentle handling during the neonatal period supports positive behavioral development.

Common Failure Patterns in Week 2

Failure to open eyes by 14 days may indicate infection, congenital abnormality, or developmental delay. Contact a veterinarian if eyes remain closed after 14 days.

Poor weight gain during the second week may indicate inadequate milk intake, illness, or competition from littermates. Monitor nursing behavior and ensure all puppies have access to nipples. Supplement with bottle feeding if necessary, under veterinary guidance.

Diarrhea in nursing puppies can quickly lead to dehydration and death. Causes include overfeeding, infection, or parasites. Contact a veterinarian if any puppy develops diarrhea.

Week 3: Transition to Independence Begins

Physical Development

During the third week, puppies undergo rapid physical development. Eyes are fully open, hearing is developing, and puppies begin to stand and take their first wobbly steps. Teeth buds appear, and puppies may begin to explore their environment.

Puppies can now regulate their body temperature slightly better but still require environmental temperatures of 75-80°F (24-26.7°C). Provide a heat source that allows puppies to move away if they become too warm.

Feeding and Weaning Preparation

Puppies continue to nurse but may begin to show interest in solid food. The weaning process typically begins around three to four weeks of age. Introduce a shallow dish of warm water or puppy milk replacer to allow puppies to practice lapping.

Do not begin weaning before three weeks of age because the puppy's digestive system is not ready for solid food. Premature weaning can cause diarrhea, malnutrition, and growth problems.

Elimination

Puppies begin to eliminate without stimulation during the third week. Provide a shallow elimination area in the whelping box, such as a low-sided litter box filled with newspaper or puppy pads. Puppies will naturally begin to use this area if it is kept clean and accessible.

Socialization

The third week is the beginning of the critical socialization period. Puppies begin to interact with littermates, learning bite inhibition and social skills. Provide opportunities for safe exploration outside the whelping box, supervised by the dam or a human caregiver.

Continue daily handling by different people to accustom puppies to human contact. Brief positive interactions support behavioral development.

Common Failure Patterns in Week 3

Failure to stand or walk by three weeks may indicate developmental delay, neurological problems, or musculoskeletal abnormalities. Contact a veterinarian if puppies are not attempting to stand.

Diarrhea during weaning is common if the transition to solid food is too rapid. Introduce new foods gradually and monitor stool consistency. Contact a veterinarian if diarrhea persists.

Week 4: Weaning Begins

Weaning Process

The weaning process should begin around four weeks of age. Start by offering a gruel made from high-quality puppy food soaked in warm water or puppy milk replacer until it reaches a porridge-like consistency. Place the gruel in a shallow dish and allow puppies to investigate.

Some puppies will begin eating immediately, while others may need encouragement. Dip a finger in the gruel and allow the puppy to lick it off. Gradually move the finger to the dish to encourage the puppy to eat from the dish.

Offer gruel three to four times daily. Puppies should continue to nurse between meals. Gradually reduce the amount of liquid in the gruel over the next two weeks, transitioning to moistened puppy food and eventually to dry kibble.

Temperature and Environment

Environmental temperature can be reduced to 75-80°F (24-26.7°C) during the fourth week. Puppies are better able to regulate their body temperature but still need a warm sleeping area. Provide a heat source in one corner of the whelping area.

Expand the puppies' living area to include a safe space for play and exploration. Remove hazards such as electrical cords, small objects that could be swallowed, and toxic plants.

Health Monitoring

Continue daily weight monitoring. Puppies should gain weight steadily during weaning. Weight loss or failure to gain weight may indicate inadequate food intake, illness, or parasites.

Monitor stool consistency during weaning. Diarrhea is common during dietary transitions but should resolve within 24-48 hours. Persistent diarrhea requires veterinary evaluation.

Common Failure Patterns in Week 4

Refusal to eat solid food may indicate illness, dental problems, or inadequate weaning technique. Contact a veterinarian if a puppy refuses to eat for more than 24 hours.

Diarrhea during weaning can lead to dehydration quickly in young puppies. Ensure puppies have access to fresh water and monitor for signs of dehydration, including dry gums, lethargy, and sunken eyes.

Week 5: Active Development

Physical Activity

During the fifth week, puppies become increasingly active. They run, play, and explore their environment with growing confidence. Bite inhibition learning continues through play with littermates and humans.

Provide a safe, puppy-proofed area for play and exploration. Remove hazards and provide appropriate toys for chewing and play. Supervise all play sessions to prevent injury.

Feeding

Continue the weaning process, offering puppy food soaked in warm water three to four times daily. Gradually reduce the amount of water added to the food, transitioning to moistened kibble. Puppies should be eating solid food consistently by the end of the fifth week.

Provide fresh water at all times in a shallow, tip-proof bowl. Puppies may play in the water bowl, so expect some mess.

Socialization

The fifth week is a critical period for socialization. Expose puppies to a variety of positive experiences, including different surfaces, sounds, people, and gentle handling. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) provides resources for pet owners on socialization and behavior development.

Introduce puppies to new people of different ages, appearances, and genders. Allow puppies to approach new people at their own pace. Use treats and praise to create positive associations.

Common Failure Patterns in Week 5

Fearfulness or avoidance of new experiences may indicate inadequate socialization. Continue positive exposure to new stimuli. Contact a veterinarian or animal behaviorist if fearfulness persists.

Aggression toward littermates or humans is unusual at this age and may indicate pain, illness, or inadequate socialization. Contact a veterinarian for evaluation.

Week 6: Preparing for Independence

Feeding

By six weeks of age, most puppies are fully weaned from the dam's milk. Offer puppy food three to four times daily. Puppies should be eating dry or moistened kibble consistently. Continue to provide fresh water at all times.

Monitor food intake and weight gain. Puppies should eat enthusiastically and gain weight steadily. Reduced appetite may indicate illness or dental problems.

Veterinary Care

Schedule the first veterinary examination during the sixth week. The veterinarian will perform a physical examination, check for congenital abnormalities, and begin the vaccination schedule. The American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) provides resources on preventive care for puppies, including vaccination protocols.

The veterinarian will also check for parasites, including intestinal worms and external parasites. Deworming is typically recommended starting at two to three weeks of age and continuing every two to three weeks until the puppy is 12 weeks old.

Socialization and Training

Continue socialization with people, other animals, and new environments. The sixth week is still within the critical socialization period, which closes around 12-14 weeks of age. Positive experiences during this period shape the puppy's behavior for life.

Begin basic training, including house training and simple commands such as sit and come. Use positive reinforcement techniques with treats and praise. Keep training sessions short and fun.

Common Failure Patterns in Week 6

Failure to gain weight or poor appetite may indicate illness, parasites, or dental problems. Contact a veterinarian for evaluation.

Diarrhea or vomiting may indicate dietary intolerance, infection, or parasites. Contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.

Week 7: Final Preparations

Feeding

Continue feeding puppy food three to four times daily. Puppies should be eating dry kibble by seven weeks of age. Monitor food intake and adjust portions based on body condition.

Provide fresh water at all times. Clean water bowls daily to prevent bacterial growth.

Socialization

The seventh week is the final week of the critical socialization period for many behaviors. Continue exposing puppies to new people, animals, and environments. The influence of early maternal care on behavioral responses to new stimuli has been documented, with research indicating that early handling and positive experiences support behavioral development.

Introduce puppies to car rides, different floor surfaces, and household noises such as vacuum cleaners and doorbells. Keep all experiences positive and brief.

Preparation for New Homes

Begin preparing puppies for transition to new homes. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) provides guidance on preparing pets for new environments. Provide new owners with information on feeding, vaccination, training, and veterinary care.

Ensure puppies are comfortable being handled by strangers. Practice brief separations from littermates to prepare for the transition to a single-pet household.

Common Failure Patterns in Week 7

Separation anxiety may develop if puppies are not gradually accustomed to being alone. Practice brief separations daily.

Fear of new experiences may indicate inadequate socialization. Continue positive exposure to new stimuli.

Week 8: Ready for Adoption

Veterinary Clearance

Before puppies go to new homes, they should receive a complete veterinary examination. The veterinarian will verify that the puppy is healthy, has received appropriate vaccinations, and is free from parasites and congenital abnormalities.

Provide new owners with a copy of the veterinary records, including vaccination history, deworming schedule, and any health concerns.

Feeding Instructions

Provide new owners with detailed feeding instructions, including the type of food the puppy is eating, feeding schedule, and portion sizes. Include information on transitioning to a new food if the new owner plans to change the diet.

Socialization and Training

Provide new owners with information on continued socialization and training. The critical socialization period extends to approximately 12-14 weeks of age, so new owners should continue exposing the puppy to positive experiences.

Common Failure Patterns in Week 8

Health problems discovered during the final veterinary examination may delay adoption. Work with the veterinarian to address any health concerns before the puppy goes to a new home.

Behavioral problems such as excessive fearfulness or aggression may require additional socialization or professional behavior consultation.

Care for Orphaned Puppies

Immediate Needs

Orphaned puppies require intensive care to survive. The first priority is providing warmth, nutrition, and elimination stimulation. The Merck Veterinary Manual provides guidance on orphaned puppy care, emphasizing the importance of maintaining body temperature and providing appropriate nutrition.

Orphaned puppies cannot regulate their body temperature and need an environmental temperature of 85-90°F (29.5-32°C) during the first week. Provide a heat source that allows puppies to move away if they become too warm.

Feeding Orphaned Puppies

Orphaned puppies need to be fed every 2-3 hours around the clock during the first two weeks. Use a commercial puppy milk replacer formulated for dogs. Do not use cow's milk, goat's milk, or human infant formula because these do not provide the correct balance of nutrients for puppies.

Feed puppies in a sternal position (on their stomachs) using a bottle designed for puppies. Never feed a puppy on its back because this can cause aspiration pneumonia. Allow the puppy to suckle at its own pace. Do not force feed.

The amount of milk replacer needed varies by puppy size and age. A general guideline is 1 ml of milk replacer per ounce of body weight per feeding, but individual needs vary. Monitor weight gain and adjust feeding amounts accordingly.

Elimination Stimulation

Orphaned puppies need stimulation to eliminate after each feeding. Use a warm damp cotton ball or soft cloth to gently rub the genital and anal area until the puppy produces urine and stool. Continue this until puppies begin to eliminate on their own, typically around three weeks of age.

Weaning Orphaned Puppies

Begin weaning orphaned puppies at three to four weeks of age, following the same process as for dam-raised puppies. Introduce gruel made from puppy food soaked in warm water or milk replacer. Gradually transition to solid food over two to three weeks.

Behavioral Considerations

Orphaned puppies may be at increased risk for behavioral problems if they do not receive adequate socialization and maternal care. The psychological and emotional care of orphaned puppies has been studied, with research indicating that orphaned puppies may be at risk for behavioral disorders if they do not receive appropriate care.

Provide orphaned puppies with opportunities for social interaction with humans and, if possible, with other puppies or a foster dam. Gentle handling, positive experiences, and consistent care support healthy behavioral development.

Common Failure Patterns in Orphaned Puppy Care

Aspiration pneumonia is a common cause of death in orphaned puppies. Feed puppies in a sternal position and allow them to suckle at their own pace. Do not force feed or feed too quickly.

Hypothermia is a constant risk for orphaned puppies. Maintain environmental temperature carefully and monitor puppy body temperature regularly.

Diarrhea is common in orphaned puppies, particularly if they are overfed or fed an inappropriate milk replacer. Use a commercial puppy milk replacer and follow feeding guidelines carefully.

Records and Measurements

Daily Weight Log

Maintain a daily weight log for each puppy from birth through eight weeks of age. Record the date, time, weight in grams, and any observations about behavior, feeding, and health. Use a digital kitchen scale that measures in grams for accuracy.

Compare each puppy's weight to expected growth curves for the breed. Puppies should gain 5-10% of their body weight daily during the first three weeks. After weaning, weight gain may slow but should remain consistent.

Feeding Records

Record the amount and type of food offered at each feeding, the amount consumed, and any signs of digestive upset. For orphaned puppies, record the amount of milk replacer consumed at each feeding and the puppy's response to feeding.

Health Records

Record any signs of illness, including diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, discharge from eyes or nose, coughing, sneezing, or skin abnormalities. Note the date, symptoms, and any veterinary interventions.

Veterinary Records

Keep copies of all veterinary records, including examination findings, vaccination dates, deworming dates, and any diagnostic test results. Provide these records to new owners when puppies go to their new homes.

Common Failure Patterns in Newborn Puppy Care

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is the most common preventable cause of neonatal death. Puppies cannot regulate their body temperature and depend on environmental warmth. Maintain environmental temperature at 85-90°F (29.5-32°C) during the first week and reduce gradually as puppies mature.

Signs of hypothermia include huddling, crying, cool skin, lethargy, and failure to nurse. Warm hypothermic puppies gradually using body heat or a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel. Contact a veterinarian if a puppy cannot maintain body temperature.

Hypoglycemia

Hypoglycemia occurs when puppies do not receive adequate nutrition. Signs include weakness, lethargy, muscle twitching, and seizures. Puppies with hypoglycemia need immediate veterinary care.

Prevent hypoglycemia by ensuring puppies nurse frequently and receive adequate milk intake. Orphaned puppies need to be fed every 2-3 hours around the clock during the first two weeks.

Dehydration

Dehydration can occur rapidly in newborn puppies, particularly if they have diarrhea or are not nursing adequately. Signs of dehydration include dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and loss of skin elasticity.

Prevent dehydration by ensuring adequate fluid intake. Puppies with diarrhea may need veterinary evaluation and fluid therapy.

Infection

Newborn puppies are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections because their immune systems are immature. Signs of infection include lethargy, poor appetite, diarrhea, vomiting, discharge from eyes or nose, and fever.

Prevent infection by maintaining a clean environment, ensuring adequate colostrum intake, and following veterinary recommendations for vaccination and deworming.

Fading Puppy Syndrome

Fading puppy syndrome is a term used to describe puppies that fail to thrive during the first two weeks of life. Causes include inadequate colostrum intake, hypothermia, hypoglycemia, infection, and congenital defects.

Signs of fading puppy syndrome include continuous crying, restlessness, failure to nurse, weight loss, low body temperature, and weakness. Puppies showing these signs require immediate veterinary evaluation.

Welfare and Safety Context

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Breeders and owners have a legal and ethical responsibility to provide appropriate care for newborn puppies. The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) provides standards for animal health and welfare that apply to breeding operations, including requirements for neonatal care.

These standards emphasize the importance of providing appropriate nutrition, temperature control, veterinary care, and socialization during the neonatal period. Failure to provide adequate care may result in legal consequences and animal welfare violations.

Professional Oversight

Veterinary oversight is essential for newborn puppy care. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) provides resources for pet owners on preventive care, including recommendations for vaccination, deworming, and health monitoring.

Work with a veterinarian to develop a care plan for each litter. Schedule regular veterinary examinations and follow veterinary recommendations for vaccination, deworming, and health monitoring.

Escalation Criteria

Contact a veterinarian immediately if any puppy shows signs of illness, including:

• Failure to gain weight for 24 hours
• Weight loss
• Lethargy or weakness
• Continuous crying
• Failure to nurse
• Diarrhea or vomiting
• Discharge from eyes or nose
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Body temperature below 94°F (34.4°C) or above 102°F (38.9°C)
• Failure to open eyes by 14 days
• Failure to stand or walk by three weeks
• Any signs of pain or distress

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should newborn puppies eat?

Newborn puppies should nurse every 1-2 hours during the first week of life. As they grow, the interval between feedings can gradually increase to every 2-3 hours by the second week. Orphaned puppies need to be fed every 2-3 hours around the clock during the first two weeks. After weaning begins around three to four weeks, puppies should eat three to four times daily.

What temperature should the whelping area be for newborn puppies?

The environmental temperature in the whelping area should be 85-90°F (29.5-32°C) during the first week of life. This temperature can be reduced to 80-85°F (26.7-29.5°C) during the second week, 75-80°F (24-26.7°C) during the third and fourth weeks, and gradually to room temperature by five to six weeks of age. Always provide a heat source that allows puppies to move away if they become too warm.

How much weight should a newborn puppy gain each day?

Newborn puppies should gain 5-10% of their birth weight daily during the first three weeks of life. A puppy that weighs 100 grams at birth should gain 5-10 grams per day. By the end of the first week, puppies should double their birth weight. By the end of the second week, puppies should weigh approximately two to three times their birth weight. Weigh puppies daily at the same time using a digital kitchen scale that measures in grams.

How do I stimulate a newborn puppy to eliminate?

Newborn puppies cannot urinate or defecate without stimulation. The dam normally stimulates elimination by licking the puppy's genital and anal area. If the dam is not present or not providing adequate stimulation, use a warm damp cotton ball or soft cloth to gently rub the puppy's genital area after each feeding. Stimulate until the puppy produces urine and stool. Continue this until puppies begin to eliminate on their own, typically around three weeks of age.

When should I start weaning puppies?

Weaning should begin around three to four weeks of age. Start by offering a gruel made from high-quality puppy food soaked in warm water or puppy milk replacer until it reaches a porridge-like consistency. Offer the gruel in a shallow dish three to four times daily. Gradually reduce the amount of liquid over the next two weeks, transitioning to moistened puppy food and eventually to dry kibble. Most puppies are fully weaned by six to eight weeks of age.

How do I care for orphaned puppies?

Orphaned puppies require intensive care including temperature support, feeding every 2-3 hours around the clock with commercial puppy milk replacer, elimination stimulation after each feeding, and socialization. Maintain environmental temperature at 85-90°F (29.5-32°C) during the first week. Feed puppies in a sternal position using a bottle designed for puppies. Never feed a puppy on its back because this can cause aspiration pneumonia. Contact a veterinarian for guidance on orphaned puppy care.

When should puppies see a veterinarian for the first time?

Puppies should have their first veterinary examination at approximately six weeks of age. The veterinarian will perform a physical examination, check for congenital abnormalities, and begin the vaccination schedule. Puppies should also be examined within 24-48 hours of birth if there are any concerns about health or development. Work with a veterinarian to develop a preventive care plan for each litter.

What are the signs of a sick newborn puppy?

Signs of illness in newborn puppies include failure to gain weight for 24 hours, weight loss, lethargy or weakness, continuous crying, failure to nurse, diarrhea or vomiting, discharge from eyes or nose, difficulty breathing, seizures, body temperature below 94°F (34.4°C) or above 102°F (38.9°C), failure to open eyes by 14 days, and failure to stand or walk by three weeks. Contact a veterinarian immediately if any puppy shows signs of illness.

Related Veterinary Guides

• How To Care For Senior Cats
• Preventive Care For Cats
• Preventive Care For Kittens
• How To Care For Elderly Cats
• Puppy Veterinarian Schedule

References and Further Reading

• www.aaha.org
• catvets.com
• www.avma.org
• Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck Veterinary Manual.
• Animal Health and Welfare. World Organisation for Animal Health.
• RECOVER Guidelines: Newborn Resuscitation in Dogs and Cats. Clinical Guidelines.. Journal of veterinary emergency and critical care (San Antonio, Tex. : 2001), 2025.
• Pediatric clinical pathology.. The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice, 2014.
• RECOVER Guidelines: Newborn Resuscitation in Dogs and Cats. Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis With Treatment Recommendations.. Journal of veterinary emergency and critical care (San Antonio, Tex. : 2001), 2025.
• Composition of the fecal, vaginal and colostrum microbiotas of dams at parturition and their relationship with neonatal outcomes in dogs.. Animal microbiome, 2025.
• Intragastric pressure measurement: a guide for reduction and closure of the silastic chimney in omphalocele and gastroschisis.. Journal of pediatric surgery, 1981.
• The psychological and emotional care of the orphaned puppy: the management and the risk of behavioural disorders.. 2020.
• Chapter 9 - Care of the Orphaned Puppy and Kitten. 2011.
• Small Animal Pediatrics: The First 12 Months of Life. 2010.
• Prevalence, incidence and chronicity of child abuse among orphaned, separated, and street-connected children and adolescents in western Kenya: What is the impact of care environment?. International Journal of Child Abuse & Neglect, 2021.
• Effect of care environment on educational attainment among orphaned and separated children and adolescents in Western Kenya. BMC Public Health, 2022.
• Problems in Coordinating and Accessing Primary Care for Attached and Unattached Patients Exacerbated During the COVID-19 Pandemic Year (the PUPPY Study): Protocol for a Longitudinal Mixed Methods Study. JMIR Research Protocols, 2021.
• Immunoglobulins in nasal secretions of dog puppies from birth to six weeks of age. Research in Veterinary Science, 2005.
• Influence of morning maternal care on the behavioural responses of 8-week-old Beagle puppies to new environmental and social stimuli. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 2016.

This article is educational and is not a substitute for veterinary diagnosis or treatment. Contact a veterinarian for advice about an individual animal.