The Puppy Corner - First Weeks of a Puppy's Life are Critical

The Puppy Corner: First Weeks of a Puppy's Life are Critical

http://animalhealthcare.ca/contents/content.asp?id=118&cat=dogs

The first few weeks of a newborn puppy's life are crucial to its future development. What happens to a puppy during those all-important first weeks can often determine whether a dog will lead a normal, healthy life or a life that is wrought with illness or behavioural problems.

When a puppy is born, it is basically helpless and unable to fend for itself. Almost 75 per cent of puppy deaths occur in the first 18 days after birth, usually as the result of ignorance or inexperience on the part of the mother (e.g. neglect or ineffective nursing) or, in some cases, on the part of the owner (e.g. excessive handling of pups, excessive inbreeding). For these reasons, it is a good idea to have both puppies and the mother checked out by a veterinarian soon after birth. The visit also provides an opportunity to get some answers to any questions you may have. Read more...