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Look, He’s Growing!

When the orphan is on its feet, eyes open, and increasing in body weight, consideration should be given to getting the puppy to lap its milk. Dip your finger into the bowl and let the puppy lick it as you guide its head toward the bowl. You’ll want to be patient and not push the puppy’s head into the bowl. This could frighten the puppy.

After Lapping has been learned

At this time puppy weaning food can be mixed into the milk replacer. Start with a thin gruel and slowly increase the amount of weaning food over several days making a somewhat thicker gruel each day.

Making the transition to solid food

Orphaned puppies can be changed to commercial food by the time they are five weeks old. Always provide plenty of fresh, clean water to drink.

Article copied from “emergency care” a guide to saving little lives (slightly modified to pertain solely to puppies) petag.inc