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Help new puppies

Asked by littleannie 3 months ago, 3 answers.

My chihuahua puppies are 16 days old,and they opened their eyes today. Mom has
decided she is only going to feed them twice aday and they want more. Is this O.K.
or should I feed them puppie milk??? And if I do this will she stop feeding all...

togather. This is her first litter.

Answered by sshaw1988 on Jul 30, 2009, 08:03PM
344 answers

They need to eat about every 5 hours. If they aren't fed at least within every 5 or 6 hours they could become sick and unhealthy.
Sam

Answered by puglover on Jul 30, 2009, 08:56PM
686 answers

you need to step in and supliment them, they are not getting enough just eating twice a day. Will the Mom feed them if you lay her down and sit by her and the pups. Mom's milk is best, but they need to be eating every couple hrs at least, if not you need to supliment with puppy replacer. That can be bought at any pet store and even walmart sells it.

Answered by magichalo1 on Jul 31, 2009, 08:36AM
872 answers

Do you have her contained to a puppy box? Are you sure she is not feeding them more? Are you feeding her 3 times the normal amount while she is nursing does she have fresh water at all times? Water keeps the milk coming. She must have lots of water. I even add a little can milk to the water just a touch to give her some extra calcium. Don't give her too much milk that is not good, just a little. Or if you have a Tums give her a 1/4 to a half tab a day.

Also you should be feeding her a Puppy Chow, are you? I would say her body is depleted some how and there is something she is lacking and she is conserving her body to feed the puppies what she can.

If you are truly convinced she is trying in wean the puppies early call your Vet's office. There are medications and things they know to help with this situation and help with the puppies.

You can start grinding up some dry puppy kibble at 3 or 4 weeks and add a little water and start feeding them, if Mom is not giving them enough. I always start feeding my pups this about 4 weeks if they are doing well, younger if need be. The mother will eat the food with them, let her because she is showing them how to eat it.

Also check their claws, Chihuahuas nails grow fast and they may be scratching her and she may not like that. Trim the puppies nails. This is a good time and check them weekly.