Care of Newborn Puppies

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                      General Information



During the first few weeks of the newborn's life, the mother

provides the necessities of warmth, nutrition and stimulation.

The owner's responsibilities consist of careful observation to

detect problems before they become serious.



Warmth:  Room temperature should be at least 70 F.  The puppies

should be kept off cold floors because chilling can be fatal to

young puppies.



Nursing:  A well-fed healthy puppy has a round stomach and seems

content.  Notify the doctor if the puppies seem uneasy or cry

frequently.



Crying:  Extended crying is usually a sign of trouble and should

be reported to the doctor immediately.



Tail docking/dewclaw removal:  Puppies of breeds in which these

procedures are done should be presented at 2-5 days of age.



Eyes:  The puppies' eyes should open at 10-14 days of age.



Weaning:  Soon after the puppies' eyes are open, pan feeding of

milk may be started.  Other foods may then gradually be added.



Recommended weaning diet:



Worms:  A stool specimen should be brought to the office for

laboratory examination when the puppies are ____ weeks old.



Special instructions:





Vaccinations:  A series of immunizations should begin at ____

weeks of age.  The doctor will recommend a schedule for the

appropriate vaccinations.