Development Stages Of Puppy Care Birth To Wean

When puppies are born they are dependent on others for their initial survival. The optimum situation is for the mother to provide feeding, bathing, and dog training. Most mothers do this admirably but there is also additional need for puppy care birth to wean. At birth the puppies will not even have their eyes open so it is important that they have a safe, warm bed which will allow them room to grow.

Much like human babies, puppy babies are born without motor skills and balance. Their feet and legs are not strong enough to support their body. At this stage in their life it is best to let mom take care of them while you make sure mom has everything she needs.

Puppy care birth to wean involves the many different development periods for the puppy. During this time the puppy’s mind and body will be developing fast and many personality traits will surface. This is the time when the puppy is introduced to humans and it is very important for the humans to make a good impression. Gentle handling is required since the puppy’s body is very fragile at this stage.

At about two weeks of age the puppy will begin to open his eyes for the first time. This is an exciting time for the puppy because he now has so much to explore. The need for puppy care birth to wean becomes more prominent now. You will need to make sure the puppies have clean bedding and room to move about and play. They will begin testing their legs more so it is important for their bed to be located in a safe place. They will still lack good coordination so place their bedding on a flat surface to prevent them from falling and being injured.

The Transition Of Puppy Training From Birth To Wean

When the puppies are about four weeks old the mom may need your help in starting to wean them. While mom will administer puppy care from birth until they are weaned, she will need you to provide them with healthy food while she slowly decreases their supply of milk. During this time the puppies need to learn to eat solid food and drink water from a bowl. This will seem awkward for them at first but in time they will get the hang of it. Human supervision is necessary at this time to make sure the puppies don’t fall in their water and drown.

During the time when the puppies are four to eight weeks old will be a time of transition for the puppies as well as mom. The puppies will be learning independence and mom will be learning how to let go of the strong attachment she has had for her babies. Once the puppies are completely weaned mom can get a much deserved break. The puppies will still be in need of care but that care can now come from humans. If the weaned puppies have been cared for properly since birth they should now be ready to make the transition from puppy to family member or family pet.