How to Tell if Nursing Puppies Are Getting Enough Milk

During the first few weeks of a newborn puppy's life, they rely entirely on their dam to meet their nutritional needs, which means she must produce sufficient milk to nurture the entire litter. Ensuring each pup gets enough milk is vital for their growth and wellbeing.

Anyone caring for a nursing dam should carefully monitor the litter, as problems can arise if the dam has a large litter, more puppies than teats, or if some pups are weaker and struggle to compete with their siblings. Occasionally, a dam may reject a puppy, adding to the concern.

Complications such as caesarean delivery or mastitis can also affect the dam’s milk production, so vigilant observation is crucial during this period.

This guide explains how to monitor nursing puppies effectively and recognise signs of milk deprivation to safeguard their health.

1. Understanding Milk Production in Dams

Labour triggers the dam's milk to descend, beginning with colostrum — a nutrient- and antibody-rich first milk essential for immune protection. This colostrum is a thin, watery substance that thickens into mature milk over the following days.

Typically, a dam's teats enlarge and become swollen as delivery approaches, signalling her body is preparing milk. However, if she undergoes a caesarean section, the normal hormonal triggers for milk production may be disrupted, necessitating veterinary monitoring.

Always ensure the dam begins producing milk shortly after giving birth, regardless of delivery method.

2. When Should Puppies Begin Feeding?

Newborn puppies should instinctively start nursing within 12 to 24 hours of birth. Early nursing is critical to receiving colostrum and establishing a strong immune system.

Caregivers should check that all puppies, especially the smallest and weakest ones, are feeding and that the dam is attentive to all her pups without rejecting any.

If any pup has not fed by 24 hours, gently guide them to a teat or consult a vet for assistance.

3. Weigh Puppies Daily to Monitor Growth

Weight gain is the strongest indicator that puppies are receiving enough milk. Puppies normally gain weight consistently, often doubling their birthweight in the first week.

Weigh each pup daily using a small, accurate scale. Lack of weight gain or weight loss signals a problem requiring immediate attention and possibly supplemental feeding.

4. Observe Signs of Distress or Hunger

Puppies deprived of adequate milk often cry loudly and frequently, signalling hunger or discomfort. Persistent fussiness is a warning sign.

Be mindful that very weak or malnourished pups may lack the strength to cry, appearing unusually quiet or lethargic.

5. Assess the Appearance of Puppies

Healthy, well-fed puppies have rounded tummies and glossy coats. Thin or wrinkled appearances, overly bloated or narrow stomachs, or a lack of regular stooling may indicate worms or insufficient feeding.

6. Provide Extra Support for Weaker or Smaller Puppies

The runt or smaller pups may be outcompeted for teats by larger littermates. Intervene gently by moving other puppies aside to give these pups opportunities to nurse more frequently.

If necessary, supplement with a vet-approved puppy milk replacer to ensure they gain strength and grow steadily.

7. Monitor the Health and Behaviour of the Dam

The dam's wellbeing directly influences her milk production and care for pups. Stress, illness, or infections like mastitis can reduce milk quality and volume or cause rejection of puppies.

Keep her environment calm and comfortable. Watch for signs of pain, swelling, or behavioural changes and seek veterinary advice promptly if concerns arise.

Summary and Next Steps

Ensuring a litter of nursing puppies receives enough milk involves carefully watching the dam's milk production, observing puppies for consistent weight gain, feeding behaviour, and signs of distress. Early identification of feeding issues allows timely intervention through guided nursing or supplementation with puppy milk replacer, under veterinary supervision.

Always prioritise responsible care and health checks for both dam and pups during this delicate period to promote strong, healthy puppies.

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