Puppies due any day

Question
My Boston puppies are due any day. Her nipples still have nothing coming out of them they are getting bigger though. So should I get a bottle and formula just in case she doesn't get her milk or am I worrying needlessly?

Answer
Hi Trina.  It's always wise to have back-up formula on hand just in case.  Be sure you purchase one that has colostrum added.  Colostrum is produced naturally by the mother, and is very high in carbohydrates, protein and antibodies - all the things the new puppies need to get the right start in life.

Try not to be too helpful.  If you take too active a role in the puppies you can cause the mother to become stressed.  A stressed mother dog can react in several ways, such as - no milk production, abandoning the litter, or actually harming the new puppies.

Once all the puppies have been delivered, stay out of the way and observe the mother.  Her maternal instincts will kick in, and she should begin to nurse on her own.  The best way to determine if the new puppies are getting enough milk, is to weigh them daily.

You can purchase a postage scale at Office Depot, or any office supply store.  Try to weigh the puppies at the same time each day.  they should gain weight daily - not a lot - but a steady gain.  If you discover that they are losing weight, then I recommend that you offer supplemental bottle feedings.

Good Luck to you and your new mother.  Please do not hesitate to contact me if I can be of further assistance.  Sincerely, Penny D.