Puppy Care Guide

Features of Week 4

1. Teething and Weaning — Around three weeks of age, the puppies' milk teeth (deciduous teeth) start to erupt. By about one month (four weeks), the mother dog's milk production naturally begins to slow down, and she will start to dislike nursing because the growing, sharp teeth can be painful to her.
   • The Transition: This stage signals that it's time to gradually introduce transitional food (weaning food) alongside continued nursing.
2. Increased Mobility and Escape Artists — With enhanced vision, hearing, and stronger legs, the puppies will become much more mobile and adventurous. Ensure their confined area is secure, as they will attempt to "escape" their whelping box to explore the surrounding world.
3. Interest in Adult Food — As they approach four weeks, the puppies will show interest in the mother dog's kibble and may attempt to eat it.

Introducing Transitional Food (Weaning Food)

• Necessity of Weaning Food — Due to their still-developing digestive system, puppies must be given specially prepared weaning food.
• Feeding Schedule — You should feed the transitional food every 4 to 5 hours.
• Adjusting Amounts — Gradually increase the amount of weaning food based on the puppies' growth rate and appetite.

Types of Weaning Food

1. Commercially Available Puppy Weaning Formula — These are often powdered formulas designed to be mixed with water to a porridge-like consistency.
2. Soaked Puppy Kibble — This involves soaking high-quality puppy kibble in puppy milk replacer or warm water until it is very soft.

Managing Mealtimes

• Separate Mother's Meals — When the mother dog eats her meal, she should be separated from the puppies. This prevents the puppies from trying to eat her food (which is too hard and large for them) and ensures the mother can eat without distraction or stress.