Bringing a newborn puppy into your home is a heartwarming experience, but it also comes with immense responsibility. Unlike older puppies, newborns require special attention, as they are delicate and depend entirely on their caregivers for survival. Whether you’re caring for an orphaned pup or supporting a nursing mother, this guide will walk you through the essentials of newborn puppy care.

1. Creating a Warm and Safe Environment

Newborn puppies cannot regulate their body temperature, making warmth a top priority. Keep them in a quiet, draft-free space and maintain a temperature of:

• First week: 85-90°F (29-32°C)

• 2-3 weeks old: 80°F (27°C)

• 4 weeks and older: 72°F (22°C) Use a heating pad or a warm water bottle wrapped in a soft towel to provide warmth, ensuring there’s enough space for the puppy to move away if they become too hot.

2. Feeding and Nutrition

Newborn puppies rely solely on their mother’s milk for nourishment. If the mother is absent, you’ll need to bottle-feed them with a canine milk replacer (never cow’s milk) using a specialized nursing bottle. Follow these guidelines:

• Feed every 2-3 hours for the first two weeks, even overnight.

• Keep the puppy upright while feeding to prevent aspiration.

• Gradually increase feeding intervals as the puppy grows. After feeding, gently rub their belly and genital area with a warm damp cloth to stimulate digestion and help them urinate and defecate.

3. Monitoring Health and Growth

Newborn puppies are vulnerable to infections and health issues. Keep an eye out for:

• Low energy or excessive crying (could indicate hunger or illness)

• Cold body temperature (a sign of hypothermia)

• Pale gums (may suggest anemia or dehydration) Schedule a vet visit within the first week to ensure the puppy is healthy and receive advice on deworming and vaccinations.

4. Encouraging Socialization and Development

For the first two weeks, puppies primarily sleep and eat. Around three weeks old, they start opening their eyes and interacting with their environment. Gradually introduce gentle handling and soft toys to help with early socialization.

5. Hygiene and Grooming

Newborn puppies cannot clean themselves, so you must:

• Wipe them with a soft damp cloth after feeding.

• Keep their bedding clean and dry to prevent infections.

• Trim nails carefully to avoid scratching and injury.

6. Transitioning to Solid Food

At about three to four weeks old, puppies begin weaning. Start introducing softened puppy food mixed with milk replacer, gradually reducing the liquid content over time until they transition to solid food by eight weeks old.

7. Providing Love and Attention

Newborn puppies thrive on warmth and comfort. Spend time cuddling and reassuring them, as human interaction plays a vital role in their emotional development.