Caring for Newborn Puppies: First Weeks Are Critical

Welcoming newborn puppies into your home is both a joyful and demanding experience. The early weeks of a puppy’s life are a critical time when attentive care makes all the difference in their health and development. For pet owners, knowing what to expect and how to respond to the unique needs of newborn puppies can help ensure these precious new arrivals thrive during their most vulnerable stage.

Immediate Care

After birth, it’s vital to ensure each puppy is breathing well and kept warm. Puppies cannot regulate their own body temperature, so maintaining a draft-free environment between 85-90°F is important for their survival. Make sure the mother is attentive, allows each puppy to nurse, and monitor for signs of distress such as weakness or excessive crying.

Nutrition and Nursing

Newborn puppies should nurse from their mother within the first hour after birth to receive colostrum; a nutrient-rich first milk loaded with antibodies that help protect against disease. Frequent nursing is normal, and puppies should be observed to ensure each is latching and feeding well. If the mother is unable to nurse or produce enough milk, consult your veterinarian for safe puppy milk replacer options.

Monitoring Growth and Development

The first weeks are a period of rapid growth. Puppies should double their birth weight within 7-10 days. Weigh each puppy daily and record their progress to spot any issues early. Puppies that are not gaining weight, appear lethargic, or seem smaller than their siblings should be examined by a veterinarian promptly.

Hygiene and Health Checks

The mother typically stimulates her puppies to eliminate waste, but if she’s not doing this, gently rub the puppy’s genital area with a warm, damp cloth after each feeding. Keep the whelping area clean and dry to prevent infections. Watch for signs of illness such as diarrhea, vomiting, or trouble breathing, and reach out to your vet if you notice anything concerning.

Socialization and Handling

While it’s important not to overwhelm newborn puppies, gentle handling from birth helps them become comfortable with human contact. Make sure everyone washes their hands before handling the puppies to minimize infection risk. As the puppies grow, gradually introduce new sounds and gentle touches to support healthy social development.

Veterinary Visits and Preventive Care

Schedule an initial checkup for the mother and puppies within the first week. Your veterinarian will assess their health, advise on deworming, and set a schedule for vaccinations. Early veterinary care ensures your puppies start life as healthy as possible and helps you identify any problems before they become serious.

Ready to Support Your New Litter?

The first few weeks of a puppy’s life are full of challenges and rapid changes. By providing a safe environment, proper nutrition, close monitoring, and early veterinary care, you give your puppies the best chance for a healthy start.

If you have questions about caring for your newborn puppy, contact Chaparral Veterinary Medical Center to schedule a wellness exam and give your pet the healthiest start possible. Visit our facility in Cave Creek, Arizona, or call (480) 595-8600 to book an appointment today.