How to Care for Puppies and Their Mum in Week 4

Caring for puppies and their mum in week 4 after birth is an exciting but crucial stage. By this time, the puppies are more active, starting to wean, and learning basic social behaviors. The mother still plays a significant role in their development, but your care and attention will ensure they grow up healthy and strong. Below, we’ll cover everything you need to know about caring for the mum and her puppies during this transitional period.

Puppies’ Development in Week 4

By the fourth week, puppies become more aware of their surroundings. Their eyesight and hearing improve, allowing them to interact more with their littermates and their mum. They will start to explore, play, and even attempt to bark. Their baby teeth begin to emerge, which is a sign that they are ready to start transitioning from mother’s milk to solid food. At this stage, their motor skills improve, and they start wobbling around more confidently.

Nutrition for Puppies in Week 4

Since puppies are still nursing, their mother’s milk remains their primary source of nutrition. However, this is also the time to introduce soft, mushy puppy food. Start by mixing high-quality puppy food with warm water or puppy formula to create a gruel. Offer this mixture in a shallow dish and encourage them to lap it up. At first, they may just play with it, but over time, they’ll start eating. Gradually reduce the liquid content to help them adjust to solid food. Feeding them four to five small meals a day will ensure they get the nutrition they need for their rapid growth.

Mum’s Health and Nutrition

The mother dog still needs a nutrient-rich diet, as she is nursing and may be losing weight due to the energy demands. High-protein and high-calorie food will help keep her healthy. Make sure she has constant access to fresh water since nursing can make her very thirsty. If she appears overly thin, lethargic, or uninterested in eating, consult your vet to adjust her diet accordingly. Some mums naturally start reducing their nursing time at this stage, but others may need help weaning their puppies.

Weaning Process and Supporting the Mum

Weaning is a gradual process that starts in week 4 and continues over the next few weeks. The mother will naturally begin spending less time with her puppies, which helps them become more independent. Allow her to move away when she wants, but also ensure the puppies are getting enough nutrition from their puppy food. If the mum seems stressed or overwhelmed by her growing puppies, giving her a break in a quiet area away from them can help.

Socialization and Early Training

Week 4 is when puppies begin to learn important social skills. They engage in play-fighting, which helps them understand bite inhibition and social boundaries. Gentle handling by humans is also crucial during this period. Spend time with each puppy daily, allowing them to experience different sounds, surfaces, and gentle interactions. Introducing them to new experiences in a safe way helps build confidence and reduces fearfulness as they grow.

Cleaning and Hygiene

At this stage, puppies become more mobile and start eliminating away from their sleeping area. While their mum still helps clean them, they will need assistance in keeping their area tidy. Change bedding regularly and provide a clean, dry, and warm environment. You can also introduce a designated potty area lined with puppy pads or newspapers. Encouraging them to use a specific spot helps with early house training.

Health Checks and Deworming

Regular health checks are essential for both the puppies and their mum. In week 4, puppies should receive their first round of deworming as intestinal parasites can be passed from the mother. Check for any signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, vomiting, or lack of appetite. If any puppy appears weak or isn’t gaining weight, consult a veterinarian immediately. The mum should also be monitored for any signs of mastitis (swollen, painful mammary glands) or post-birth complications.

Handling and Bonding

This is a critical time for human bonding. Puppies should be gently handled daily to get them used to human touch. Encourage family members to interact with them, but ensure interactions are calm and positive. Avoid overwhelming them with too many new experiences at once. Gradually introducing them to everyday household noises like the vacuum or TV at a low volume helps them adjust to their future home environment.

Providing a Safe and Comfortable Space

As puppies become more active, their living space should be expanded to allow room for exploration. A safe play area with soft bedding, toys, and a warm resting place is ideal. Keep their environment free from hazards such as small objects they might swallow or areas where they could get stuck. Supervision is important as they start climbing and exploring.

Recognizing the Mum’s Changing Behavior

As puppies grow more independent, the mum may start to show signs of distancing herself. This is normal and part of the weaning process. However, if she appears overly stressed, aggressive, or avoids her puppies entirely, she may need additional support. Providing her with a quiet retreat where she can rest without interruption is helpful. Continue giving her affection and attention to ensure she doesn’t feel neglected.

The Role of Toys and Stimulation

Introducing soft toys and gentle stimulation helps puppies develop their coordination and curiosity. Chew toys are particularly beneficial as their teeth come in. Simple items like soft balls, plush toys, and tunnels can keep them engaged. Avoid anything too hard or small, as their teeth are still developing, and they might choke on small objects.

Preparing for the Next Stage

Week 4 is a transitional period leading up to full weaning and greater independence. By week 5 and beyond, puppies will become more confident and ready for additional training. This is also the time to start considering potential homes if you’re not keeping all the puppies. Responsible rehoming starts with ensuring they are healthy, well-socialized, and ready to leave their mum at the appropriate age, which is usually around eight weeks.

Final Thoughts on Week 4 Puppy and Mum Care

Week 4 after birth is an important time for both puppies and their mum. Providing proper nutrition, hygiene, socialization, and health care ensures that the puppies develop well and the mum stays healthy. Watching them grow and explore their surroundings is rewarding, and the right care during this stage sets them up for a happy and well-adjusted future. If you have any concerns about their health or behavior, consulting a vet ensures that both the mum and her puppies thrive.