Quote:
Originally Posted by kjcmsw  Hi...
a new question. Puppies are now 5 + weeks, Gracie started weaning them last week, now she's growling at them, we're giving them mush and they're learning the basics of eating and doing ok. It's Gracie I'm concerned about, as she stopped nursing them on her own and if we made her lay down she'd tolerate the puppies nursing (1-2x day)and she'd be relieved, now tonight she got really angry at them for nursing after we laid her down with them, growling snapping. Thus we didn't push it; however her nipples are engorged (not terribly, but still swollen - looking in need of being nursed) and my question is what should I do, just let it be and she'll dry up on her own or what to do now? (We started putting Bag Balm on her nipples as they looked sore, which helped for a couple days, she seemed to tolerate nursing them (with our assistance)...but tonight it was a definite no-go.) She still cares for them...if they make too much noise she goes and checks on them and is still protective of them...but the first time they run up and try to nurse she's ready to bite (??) them.
What to do?? Thanks for any advice.
Kendra |
More than likely your pupshave their full compliment of milk teeth and is the reason mom is not allowing them access to those nipples. They are nipping at her and it hurts. This is the time when weaning begins, the consistancy of mother's milk is changing, not as rich.
I've always allowed my girls to call the shots. But, if she really doesn't allow them to nurse on her, then decrease her food intake. Some withhold food for 24 hours and keep her away from pups. These pups being so young, mmmmm I'd try working with her a bit more. Weaning time is very crucial......But, they are old enough to lap. Goat's milk, equal parts of distilled water and Gerber's rice cereal with a bit of Karo......Let them go at it about 4 to 5 times a day.