Puppie Milk

Question
Hopefully these questions are appropriate. If not let me know.How soon after a poodle has puppies can they be weaned to commercial puppy milk? Can you recommend a good brand? Thanks

Answer

Hi Athelia,

Unless the mother dog has an illness which is preventing her from nursing her litter, you should let her nurse them! She will wean her litter when they're about 5 weeks of age.

I can't stress how much around the clock work it would be for you to hand feed a litter. You, and the puppies are much better off letting the mother dog do what is natural, which is for her to nurse her litter.

If the mother dog is having a problem nursing her litter, you need to contact your veterinarian without delay. She may be having a medical problem that needs attention. If that is the case, your vet can show you how to hand feed the litter.

Best of luck,

Patti