Puppyhood: What to Expect as a Newborn to 2 Weeks
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Congratulations! Your new four legged arrival is finally here! If you are a first time puppy owner, this is not only an exciting time, but one full of learning. Even if having a newborn pup is old hat for you, helping the newest member of your pack adjust to life still takes patience, as just like two legged infants, your pup will grow and change quickly and require constant monitoring. The first couple weeks are super impawtant for your little furball’s development. During this time, puppies should stay with their mother, and shouldn't be taken to a new home until 8-12 weeks of age. Read on for some doggone good information that will help you during these formative weeks.Â
Newborn Puppy
Right after entering this great big world, newborn pups are at their most vulnerable. Temperature control and weight gain are of the utmost impawtance. If possible, keep the new babe next to their mama or littermates. A heat lamp placed inside their space is a great alternative. Keep your pupper in a warm room and away from any drafts. If you hear any crying, chances are your little one is cold. Also, during the first couple days of their life, it’s a good idea to weigh your pup daily to make sure they are gaining enough weight. They should double in size within the first week.
Milk
Colostrum from their mother gives newborn pups much needed antibodies.
90%
Newborns sleep 90% of the time, so you’ll be lucky if see your new pup awake!
Eyes Closed
At this stage, your pup will be blind, toothless, and deaf.
1 Week Old Puppy
Puppies waste no time when it comes to growing. Even after a week you will notice a change in their size. At this stage, your pup should be gaining weight every day. Invest in a digital scale and keep track of their weight gain. As they begin to fill out, they start taking on their breed’s characteristics. All that milk helps them gain strength and muscle mass. Before you know it, your pup will be a bit more mobile. They aren’t ready to stand just yet, but don't be surprised to see them crawling around their box!
Milk
Nursing is still ideal, but commercial puppy formula is a pawsome substitute.
All the Time
Your roly poly puppy still spends most of their day fast asleep.
Eyes Open Soon
Underneath those heavy lids, their eyes are preparing to open.
2 Week Old Puppy
By this point, your fur baby will probably have opened their eyes and been introduced to the world around them. When this happens, their vision isn't pawfect, so they are still a little clumsy. They start learning how to act by following the example of their mother and littermates. If they are feeling up to it, your furry friend may try to stand up on their wobbly little legs. Their legs aren't the only thing getting stronger. As they find their voice, their small cries start turning into yelps, whines, and maybe even a tiny bark! And this is just the beginning of their journey.
Eating Less Frequently
Two week old pups should be fed every 6-8 hours.
Still Sleepy
Even though they are more active, you can still expect your pup to sleep…a lot.
Ears Begin to Open
If they haven’t already, your pup’s ears will begin to open.
