What to do if your newborn puppy doesn't want to eat?

When a newborn puppy refuses to eat, it can be a cause for concern for its owners. Proper nutrition is crucial for their growth and development, and any sign that a puppy is not eating correctly should be taken seriously. In this blog, we will address the possible reasons why your puppy might not be eating and how to resolve it.

1. Why do newborn puppies refuse to eat?

There are several reasons why a newborn puppy may refuse food, and it's important to identify them correctly to take appropriate action.

a) Problems with breastfeeding

The most common reason for a puppy not eating is a lack of adequate access to maternal milk. If the mother is not producing enough milk or if the puppy has difficulty nursing, it may refuse to eat. In some cases, the mother may reject the puppy for various reasons, which can lead to the puppy not receiving the necessary nutrients.

b) Physical malformations

Some puppies may be born with malformations that make it difficult to suckle or access maternal milk. Conditions such as a cleft palate or respiratory difficulties can cause the puppy to refuse to eat.

c) Illnesses or infections

A newborn puppy may also refuse to eat if it is sick or has an infection. Bacterial or viral infections can make the puppy feel weak, which can lead to a lack of appetite.

d) Stress or trauma

The environment or birth trauma can affect the puppy's behavior. If the puppy is stressed or has experienced physical trauma, it may not feel well enough to eat.

e) Inadequate feeding or improper handling

If you are trying to bottle-feed your puppy and are not using the correct formula or are not feeding it properly, the puppy might reject the food.

2. How to tell if your puppies are well-fed?

It is important to pay attention to signs that your puppy is receiving the correct amount of food:

• Weight gain: A newborn puppy should gain weight daily. If it is not gaining weight, it is a clear sign that it is not eating enough.

• Energy level: Well-fed puppies tend to be active, although they spend most of their time sleeping.

• Behavior: A puppy that is not eating and seems lethargic or whiny might be having difficulty feeding properly.

3. How to help your puppies eat if they won't do it themselves? 

If your newborn puppies are refusing to eat, there are some solutions you can try.

a) Offer breast milk properly

If the mother is available, ensure that the puppy can nurse correctly. You can help it find the nipple or, if necessary, assist with a bottle with the appropriate formula. If the mother is not available, opt for a special puppy formula.

b) Use of puppy formula

If the puppy cannot access maternal milk, it is important to feed it a specific puppy formula. Avoid cow's milk, as it is not suitable for them. Special puppy formula is designed to meet all their nutritional needs.

c) Provide warmth

Newborn puppies cannot regulate their body temperature properly. If the puppy is cold, it may refuse to eat. Make sure to keep it at a warm and comfortable temperature, using a heating pad or a hot water bottle wrapped in a cloth.

d) Veterinary check-up

If, after trying these solutions, your puppy still won't eat, it is essential to take it to the vet for a check-up. A professional can identify possible health problems such as infections or malformations that prevent feeding.

4. The role of puppy supplements: How can Maikai help?

While newborn puppies should primarily be fed breast milk or special puppy formula, in some situations, supplements can be helpful to ensure your pet is getting all the necessary nutrients.

Maikai's natural products can be a valuable complement when the puppy starts to introduce solid foods or needs additional nutritional support.

Immune Digestive:

A supplement like Immune Digestive can help improve the digestion and immune system of puppies as they begin to adapt to new foods. Formulated with natural ingredients, this supplement can be useful during the transition period when the puppy moves from milk to solid foods.

5. Additional tips to ensure proper feeding for your puppy

• Feeding frequency: Newborn puppies should be fed frequently (every 2-3 hours during the first few weeks). As they grow, the frequency can be reduced.

• Observe its behavior: If the puppy continues to reject food, it could be a sign that something is not working correctly, such as the formula or the type of bottle used.

• Avoid sudden changes: If you have to change the formula or type of food, do it gradually to avoid digestive upset.

Conclusion: Take care of your puppy's nutrition from the beginning

Nutrition is one of the most important pillars for your puppy's health in its first days and weeks of life. If your newborn puppy refuses to eat, it is important to quickly identify the underlying causes and act appropriately. If home remedies don't work, do not hesitate to consult a veterinarian.