Bringing a newborn puppy, or litter, into your home is exciting, but it also comes with great responsibility. Whether you are caring for a newborn puppy that has been separated from its mother or are fostering a puppy in need, one of the most important aspects of their early development is ensuring they receive the appropriate nutrition. For puppies that are unable to nurse from their mother, puppy milk replacers play a vital role in their growth and development.
What Are Puppy Milk Formulas?
Puppy milk formulas are liquids or ready-to-mix powders that have been specifically formulated to mimic the nutritional profile of a mother dog’s milk. These products are nutritionally balanced to meet the specific needs of a rapidly growing puppy and provide the essential proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals they need for proper development during their first weeks of life. Milk replacers for puppies are a vital resource for orphaned puppies, for those that cannot nurse properly due to health issues, or for mothers who cannot produce an adequate milk supply for their litter.
The first few weeks of a puppy’s life are a time of rapid growth and crucial for their development and life-long health. The primary period that puppy milk replacer is necessary is from birth to about 4 weeks of age. Puppies generally begin to transition to solid foods around 4 weeks, but until then, they rely on their mother’s milk or a high-quality milk replacer as their sole source of nutrition.
Common scenarios where puppy milk replacer might be needed include orphaned puppies, inadequate maternal milk supply, maternal health issues, such as mastitis, and weak or rejected puppies. The sooner an issue can be identified, the better the outcome for the litter, so it is important to keep a very close eye on young puppies, as early intervention can prevent catastrophic outcomes.
Choosing a Good Puppy Milk Replacer
When it comes to milk, it is important to remember that not all milks are the same. For the same reasons that human babies cannot survive on cow’s milk and need baby formula, cow or goat milk is not an appropriate substitute for puppy milk. While cow or goat milk may seem like an easy solution, both contain higher levels of lactose, a sugar found in milk, that can upset a puppy’s sensitive stomach, leading to diarrhea and dehydration, and lower protein and fat levels than puppies need. Cow and goat milk, or the protein fractions of them, may be used as ingredients in puppy milk replacers and are balanced with other components to provide lower lactose levels, higher protein, higher fat, and are fortified with essential vitamins and minerals.
When selecting a puppy milk replacer, consider the form and quality of the product. Choose a product specifically designed for puppies. It should have the proper balance of protein, fat, carbohydrates (milk sugars), vitamins, and minerals needed for growth. Look for formulas that closely match the composition of dog’s milk, which has an average, on a dry matter basis, of 7.5% protein, 9.5% fat, and 3.8% sugar.
The fat composition is especially important, as it is crucial for healthy weight gain and proper brain development. Puppies have delicate stomachs, so look for formulas that are easy to digest. Some brands incorporate enzymes or probiotics to aid in digestion, which can be beneficial for weak or very young puppies. Additionally, some brands include a source of colostrum into their formulations, which helps support immune function and aids in gut health.
Puppy milk replacers come in two types: liquids and powders. Powdered formulas are the most common and cost effective, but they do require mixing with water. Powdered formulas are easier to store and have a longer shelf life, however, error is more likely as owners have to mix the formula themselves. Liquid, or ready-to-feed, formulas are more convenient but are also more expensive. These formulas are ideal for owners who need to avoid the hassle of mixing powder.
When preparing puppy milk replacer, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to mix the formula as well as storage after opening. The ratio of powder to water must be precise, as too much powder can cause constipation or dehydration, while too little may result in malnutrition. Always use clean, sterilized bottles and nipples to prevent bacterial or fungal contamination. You can warm the formula by placing the bottle in a bowl of warm water. The milk should be lukewarm – never too hot, as it can burn the puppy’s mouth. It is important not to microwave the milk, as excessive heat can destroy nutrients. After the milk is mixed or opened, it should be refrigerated and used within 24 hours. If left at room temperature, it should be discarded after one hour.
Puppy Feeding Chart
The appropriate feeding schedule depends upon on the age of the puppy:
Newborns (0 to 3 weeks of age): Puppies this young need to be fed every two to three hours, even at night. The amount of milk ingested depends upon the size of the puppy, but stomachs should look full and round, not sunken, after feeding. When feeding, hold the bottle upright and allow the puppy to nurse at its own pace. When choosing a bottle, make sure to select the appropriate nipple size. Too large of a hole make cause the milk to flow too quickly, which can cause the puppy to aspirate and choke, while too small of a hole can restrict milk intake and cause frustration. Ensure puppies are kept warm, as they are unable to thermoregulate at this age. Additionally, after feeding, it is important to stimulate urination and defecation with a warm damp cloth or cotton pad if the puppy is not with their mother.
3 to 4 weeks of age: Feedings can be extended to every three to four hours. At this age, puppies may begin to lap milk from a shallow bowl or dish in addition to being bottle fed.
Weaning (4 to 6 weeks of age): To begin introducing solid food, make a gruel by mixing high-quality puppy food with milk replacer in a shallow dish, gradually reducing the amount of formula over time. By 8 weeks of age, puppies should be fully weaned and eating solid food.
While feeding, watch for any signs of discomfort or complications. Diarrhea, vomiting, aspiration of milk, or lack of weight gain could indicate an issue with the formula or feeding technique. If you notice any of these, contact your veterinarian immediately, as puppies can go downhill very quickly. Maddie’s Fund, an organization dedicated to animal welfare, has an excellent, printable chart that can help guide you through many problems with orphaned puppies.
Choosing the right puppy milk replacer and feeding your puppy properly during their early weeks is essential to ensure they grow up healthy and strong. By selecting a high-quality formula, following feeding guidelines, and monitoring your puppy’s progress, you can help give them the best start possible in life. If you ever feel uncertain about your puppy’s progress, or if problems arise, do not hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian for advice and support.
