Breeding complications and insight!

[pheonix]

First of all thanks to all you offered your support and wisdom during Tiffany's delivery!

We couldnt understand why there was a size and developement difference between the first 2 pups and the third. They were born on Saturday and the third pup still doesnt weigh what either of the other pups did when born. He is progressing but slowly.

After talking with the vet I found out that pups in the same litter can be conceived on different days or from different dads for that matter!

So since Tiffany mated with Coco on 5 different days there could be as much as 5 days development difference between the first 2 pups and the third.

He has had a hard time competing with the other 2 pups for a teat and then to keep it once he gets it.

We tried monitoring him and getting him on early but it didnt help that much. He only gained 0.02lbs in 2 days while the others gained 0.10lbs

We are going to begin bottle feeding the one pup once a day (for now) to supplement what he is or isnt getting from mom right now.

You learn something new every day!

[starstella92]

With the tiny pups that are having difficulties and having to fight for food, I've heard from others that they often will allow the little one to nurse first, for several minutes to give them a headstart. This will ensure that this little one is eating and getting his fill, especially since he's so much smaller than the others. Just an idea, it'll probably help out. I just saw the picture, they are soooo cute! Congrats again, aren't puppies just wonderful!?! I'm really enjoying having our little girls around; Maya is doing so well.

[altigger74]

I had that happen with Gracie's first litter. She had two that weighed 3.3 and 3.8oz and then two that weighed 1.8 and 1.9oz. Just make sure that baby is warm, and eating at least every two hours.

[Mardelin]

Supplementing is a good idea. Allowing him on for a good 5 minutes prior to the others is a good idea. Remember your girl's milk only lets down every 2 hours......so you'll have to time it. Try rubbing some NutriDrops on the wee guy....strenghten him up so, he can fight off his siblings.

Your vet is correct. The other thing is it depends if they were all in the same horn....not much room for all of them to grow.....

I had a 2 oz guy in my last litter....it took him a week to catch up.....As long as your pup is steadily gaining....that's all that matters.