What should I do if my dog isn't feeding her puppies? - briefly
If your dog isn't feeding her puppies, you should first consult with a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues. Additionally, provide supplemental nutrition through puppy formula or goat's milk until the mother can resume care.
What should I do if my dog isn't feeding her puppies? - in detail
If your dog is not nursing her puppies, it could be due to several reasons ranging from medical issues to behavioral problems. Here are some steps you can take:
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Check for Medical Issues: The first thing to do is to consult with a veterinarian. Your dog might be experiencing discomfort or pain that makes nursing difficult. Common issues include mastitis (inflammation of the mammary glands), low milk supply, or even dental problems that make it painful to nurse.
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Behavioral Issues: Sometimes, dogs may refuse to nurse due to behavioral reasons. Stress, anxiety, or a change in environment can affect her nursing behavior. Try to create a calm and quiet environment for your dog. If she has recently moved or there have been other significant changes in her life, these could also contribute to her not wanting to nurse.
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Ensure Proper Nutrition: Make sure your dog is getting enough food and water. A well-nourished mother can produce more milk. You might need to provide additional nutritional support or supplements recommended by a vet to boost her milk production.
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Hand Feeding the Puppies: If your dog isn't nursing, you will have to take over this responsibility. You can feed the puppies with a bottle and puppy formula available at pet stores. Ensure that you are using the right type of bottle and formula designed specifically for newborn puppies.
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Monitor for Rejection: Sometimes, dogs may reject their puppies due to lack of bonding or other reasons. If your dog is showing aggression towards her puppies or trying to push them away, it might be a sign of rejection. In such cases, you should immediately consult with a veterinarian or an animal behaviorist for professional advice.
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Cleanliness and Hygiene: Ensure that the area where your dog is supposed to nurse her puppies is clean and comfortable. Dirty surroundings can deter her from nursing. Regularly wash bedding and provide a cozy place for both the mother and the puppies.
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Patience and Observation: Observe your dog's behavior closely. Sometimes, dogs need some time to adjust to their new role as mothers. Be patient and give her space but also keep an eye on her interactions with the puppies. If she shows any signs of improvement or starts nursing even a little, encourage this behavior with positive reinforcement like treats and praise.
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Seek Professional Help: If your dog continues to refuse to nurse and you are not able to manage feeding the puppies by yourself, do not hesitate to seek help from a veterinarian or a professional breeder who can provide more specific advice tailored to your situation.
In summary, if your dog isn't nursing her puppies, it is crucial to address both medical and behavioral aspects. Consulting with a vet should be the first step, followed by creating a suitable environment for nursing and being prepared to hand-feed the puppies if necessary.