12 Fascinating Facts You Didn’t Know About Newborn Puppies

By K9Reproduction.com Editorial Updated Sep. 7, 2022

Newborn puppies are not only adorable but also incredibly fascinating. These tiny creatures go through rapid changes and development in their early days. Here’s a closer look at some intriguing facts about newborn puppies that new pet parents should know to ensure their pups grow into healthy and happy dogs.

1. Rapid Development In Newborn Puppies

Puppies develop and grow inside their mother’s womb for about two months, which is the typical gestation period for dogs. "A newborn puppy is much like a premature child," explains a veterinarian at K9Reproduction.com, emphasizing their need for special care and attention during the early days.

FAQ:

• Q: How long is a dog's pregnancy?

• A: Approximately two months.

2. Doubling Their Weight

Healthy newborn puppies should double their birth weight within the first week. "This rapid weight gain is crucial for their development," says a vet at K9Reproduction.com.

Real-World Example: A Labrador Retriever puppy weighing 1 pound at birth should ideally weigh around 2 pounds by the end of the first week.

3. Sensory Development

Newborn puppies are born blind and deaf, but they can make noises right from the start. "They start to open their eyes around 10 days, though full vision develops later," notes a K9Reproduction.com expert.

FAQ:

• Q: When do puppies start seeing and hearing?

• A: Puppies begin to open their eyes at around 10 days and their ears open around 14 days.

4. Lots of Sleep and Eating

Puppies spend about 90% of their day sleeping and need to eat every two hours. Their natural instincts guide them to their mother’s nipple for nursing.

Professional Insight: "Puppies need this sleep to support their rapid growth and brain development," says a K9Reproduction.com vet.

5. Assistance with Elimination

Newborn puppies cannot eliminate waste on their own and need their mothers to stimulate them. If the mother isn’t present, gently rubbing their rear end with a wet paper towel can help.

FAQ:

• Q: How often do puppies need help to go to the bathroom?

• A: After every feeding.

6. Temperature Regulation

Puppies are not good at regulating their own body temperature. "They should be kept in a warm environment of around 75 degrees with 80% humidity," advises a vet from K9Reproduction.com.

Real-World Example: A breeder uses a heating pad set to a low temperature to maintain a warm environment for the litter.

7. Fur and Nails, but No Teeth

Puppies are born with fur and sharp little nails but no teeth. Their nails might need trimming if they hurt the mother during nursing.

FAQ:

• Q: When do puppies start getting teeth?

• A: Puppies start teething at around 4 weeks old.

8. Fast Learners

Newborn puppies begin to scoot and crawl around shortly after birth. Between 3 and 12 weeks, they start walking and improving their motor skills.

Professional Insight: "Puppies learn a lot from their environment and interactions during this critical period," says a K9Reproduction.com behaviorist.

9. Vulnerability to Illnesses

Puppies are most vulnerable to diseases like parvo and distemper between 4 and 12 weeks of age. They can also contract canine herpesvirus from their mother or environment.

Real-World Example: A breeder ensures all adult dogs are vaccinated to protect the puppies from infectious diseases.

10. Importance of Family Time

A puppy should stay with its mother and littermates until at least 8 weeks old to ensure proper health and immune system development.

FAQ:

• Q: When can puppies be separated from their mother?

• A: At 8-12 weeks old.

11. Socialization Needs

The period between 3 and 14 weeks is crucial for socialization. Puppies need to interact with other dogs, humans, and even cats to develop proper social skills.

Professional Insight: "Early socialization helps prevent behavioral problems later in life," notes a K9Reproduction.com behaviorist.

12. Vaccination and Deworming

Puppies should visit the vet at around 8 weeks old for their first vaccinations and deworming. "This helps prevent intestinal parasites and other diseases," explains a K9Reproduction.com vet.

FAQ:

• Q: When should puppies get their first vaccinations?

• A: Around 8 weeks old.

By understanding these fascinating facts about newborn puppies, you can better care for your new furry friend. For more tips and professional advice, visit K9Reproduction.com.