Mother Yorkie not eating

Question
Our Yorkie had a litter of 4 pups in the last 5 days.  She isn't eating well.  The pups are gaining weight but the dog food the vet has recommeneded she won't eat.  Including puppy food.  We are very concerned about this.  Can you help?

Answer
Daniel,

When all else fails feed her a mixture of beef broth, dog food and chicken.  She needs protein in order to keep her strong and that is what she will get with the chicken.  If she is not used to people food then mixing the chicken with warm beef broth and dog food will keep her from getting diarrhea from the chicken.  If she refuses to eat the chicken mixture then you need to take her to the vet because one of the signs that there is something wrong is that they quit eating.  She could have an infection or any number of things because of the birthing process.

Most mothers will not eat or drink much after they have had puppies for the first few days because they do not want to leave the puppies.  If that is the case you will need to place the food and water as close to her as you can so she feels safe eating and is not required to leave her puppies in order to eat or drink.

Your vet would probably not recommend feeding her the chicken mixture I have suggested but I have used it with my females over the years and it has never had an ill effect on the mother or the puppies.  Good luck to you.

Sincerely,

Melinda