[feminvstr]

Originally Posted by MrsLee

Hello YT people! I have to say this site is a godsend for sure

IF THIS IS IN THE WRONG AREA PLEASE TRANSFER FOR ME ADMN . I wasn't sure just where to put these questions at....I have done a few searches and Iv'e not been very lucky. SO if this is a duplicate post please direct me to the best spot Yes I am currently reading up on pup rearing and checking other sites etc As well as having an upcoming vet apointment for the whole family...I'm just curious of first hand experience from other YT members.

[I]For how long do you keep your Human family from handling or messing with new pups? Or do you at all?[/I]...Why I really ask is my children (10,11,15) are always asking to hold a pup I keep telling them no ...not yet. I barely even let them go into the same room and look at the pups from a distance Which makes them mad but I am just trying to keep my gal has comfortable as possible.'

When did you start feeding the pups and what did you feed them? Why I ask is I was wondering if you go by a certain age no matter the size or weight of a pup for this.

Heating pad...How long did you use it for the pups?

Mom is refusing to eat any type of dog food that I have tried ..I fear I am spoiling her by feeding her human food, but I am terrified she won't have enough strength if I don't.... Have any of you had this issue with your gal after having pups?

Its best for the first couple of weeks refrain from handling or as little as possible, theyre very susceptible and far too fragile for children to be handling, they need their sleep to gain their strength and the most sterile environment possible.

Introduce food once the teeth begin to come in (usually by 6 weeks), pups become more interested in moms food once you notice this start with puppy gruel.

Heat pad ONLY USE ON LOW, in the winter I leave it on all the time...

Mom should be fed 4-5 times a day small meals along with plenty of liquids...her dry food and water should be available all the time. Entice her with her favorite things also add in the diet Fat vanilla or plain yogurt, cheese, cottage cheese, puppy canned food....anything she will eat, once the kids begin to eat on their own start cutting back moms small meals.

hope this helps
good luck