Series 1, Ep 7 - Podcast Show Notes

Avoiding Problem Puppies: Monitoring and Managing Milestones

This episode focuses on the essential observations breeders must take when their puppies arrive, to avoid breeding blunders.

Join us as we discuss what breeders should be looking out for, from ‘normal’ to ‘dangerous’ discharge, and the benefits of raspberry leaf as a uterine tonic. Learn about the potential risks of retained placentas, the impact of antibiotics on puppies' gut health and immune systems, and how you can avoid the dreaded "6-week squits". 

We delve into common nursing issues such as frustrated milk moans and latching difficulties, all whilst highlighting the significance of puppy observations. We discuss how to analyse puppy stools and spot signs of dehydration, so you can ensure each puppy receives the care it needs to thrive.

Whether you're a seasoned breeder or a newcomer to the world of puppy rearing, this episode of Breeders Brew is filled with invaluable insights and actionable advice to help you navigate the journey from birth to breeding benchmarks with confidence and care.

PODCAST TAKEAWAYS

• Normal Dam Discharge After Whelping
  • Discharge from the dam after whelping can last a significant period and is considered normal, provided the dam has no fever and behaves typically.
  • Oxytocin released during nursing helps in uterine contraction, exacerbating the discharge process. Raspberry leaf can be administered to expedite clearance.

 

• Weighing Puppies Daily
  • It's crucial to weigh each puppy daily during the first few weeks to monitor weight gain and overall health. You should be recording this vital information in the Home Breeder Puppy Playbook.
  • Tracking weights and gains for each puppy enables the identification of any deviations or concerns, allowing for timely adjustments in care.

 

• Signs of Improper Latching
  • Signs of improper latching, such as frustration noises from the puppy during feeding, may indicate issues like low milk supply.
  • Repositioning the puppy on a different teat or assisting with latching can help alleviate feeding difficulties.

 

• Importance of Winding Puppies
  • Regular winding of puppies after feeding is essential, as puppies may need to pass gas despite appearing full.
  • Proper winding ensures comfort and prevents discomfort caused by trapped gas.
  • Watch our winding demo to learn to wind your puppies properly.

 

• Monitoring Urine Output
  • Monitoring urine colour and amount provides valuable insights into puppy hydration levels and milk intake.
  • This simple practice aids in assessing overall health and well-being.

 

• Don't Panic About Lack of Stools
  • Lack of visible stools may not indicate a problem, as the dam often diligently cleans up after the puppies.
  • As long as puppies gain weight and exhibit normal behaviour, lack of visible stools is generally not a cause for concern.

 

• Passionate Puppy Practitioner Recommendations
  • Free Downloadable Puppy Report Card Help Sheet
  • CNC Raspberry Leaf to support uterine healing 
  • Home Breeder Puppy Playbook to record your puppy observations and breeding milestones 
  • Puppy Winding Demo

 

• Don’t forget!
  • Share your personal experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community. Register your interest by downloading your free Breeders Brew Critical Care Sheet.

Thank you for joining us for another informative episode! Stay tuned for more valuable discussions on dog breeding and wellbeing. Feel free to share your feedback and experiences with us inside the Breeders Brew Community!