If your dog has had a litter of puppies and you want to give away (or sell) the puppies, you will need to wait until the puppies can removed from their mother in a healthy way. Puppies need adequate time to learn important social behaviors from their mom and the rest of the litter, including how to interpret dominance, aggressive behavior, and submission.
Also, whenever possible, it is best to allow the mother dog to gradually dry up her milk supply. Weaning a litter of puppies all at the same time causes the least stress for all the dogs.
Once appropriate time has passed, they can begin to learn to both eat and operate independently of their mom. But when should puppies be weaned?If your dog has had a litter of puppies and you want to give away (or sell) the puppies, you will need to wait until the puppies can removed from their mother in a healthy way. Puppies need adequate time to learn important social behaviors from their mom and the rest of the litter, including how to interpret dominance, aggressive behavior, and submission.
Also, whenever possible, it is best to allow the mother dog to gradually dry up her milk supply. Weaning a litter of puppies all at the same time causes the least stress for all the dogs.
Once appropriate time has passed, they can begin to learn to both eat and operate independently of their mom. But when should puppies be weaned?
How & When to Wean Your Puppy
Most experts agree that a puppy should not be allowed to nurse beyond three or four weeks. Therefore, the best time to begin to wean a puppy from mother’s milk is at approximately 25 days.
At that time, you should start to introduce the puppies to a weaning formula. One of the most effective methods to wean a puppy is to give him a semi-liquid nourishment, presented in a very shallow pan. Place the puppy at the edge of the food, carefully guide his chin towards into the food so he can smell it. Continue until he licks it and begins to understand that this is food for him. It is important to first separate the mother and the puppies so that they are not confused as the try to learn how to eat without her.
After approximately 7 days, the puppy will be ready to begin to try more substantial puppy food. You can utilize the same formula you have been giving him so it is familiar, but mix in ground up dry puppy food. Canned puppy food will work as well.
Between 4 and 6 weeks of age, your puppy should be enjoying four meals a day of a high quality puppy food. Make sure that your puppy can handle the food you give him by breaking up larger pieces, or letting it soak in warm water a bit. Give your puppy a variety of foods and plenty of water.
Can You Give Your Puppy Milk? Some people choose to use milk generally consumed by humans, as well as condensed milk, to wean a puppy. Even when diluted, sugars other concentrated substances can result in gastric distress, loose stool and stress. Instead, many experts recommend “puppy specific” milk replacer, designed with the proper ratios of fats and proteins and sugars tailored for canine physiology.
Did You Know? Puppy milk replacers can be fed to the pups right from birth if the mother cannot or will not nurse.
Additional Weaning Information
- Take your time and be patient. This is new for everyone.
- Weaning can be messy, with puppies often covered in milk or food. Keep the puppies dry and warm – and clean.
- Only leave small amounts of food out so as not to encourage over-eating.
- Report in with your vet to ensure that the puppies are developing normally through the process.
Once puppies are approximately 3 or 4 months old, you can begin to teach them basic commands, housetraining, and obedience. While you can certainly teach your puppy these behaviors at home, consistency and attention is key. If you do not feel that you can invest the time to properly train your new puppy, call the professionals at Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training. We are happy to help you to get your puppy off to a great start in life.
