The first two weeks after the litter is whelped are both the easiest and the most terrifying. That may sound strange but it is so true. Mom does most of the real work, leaving you to keep track of their progress. That is the easy part. The hard part is that, during the first two weeks, your babies are at their most vulnerable. Both their eyes and ears are closed; they have little control over their body temperature and no control over their body functions. Hopefully, your matron is a good mom and will take charge of all their needs, but you will still have to keep a close eye on their progress and living conditions. As with the other parts of this series, we will assume everything is going as planned, but as a first-time breeder you need to know how to take over any and all parts of their care if things wrong. Doing your homework and working with an experienced breeder and vet are your best line of defense.
Sometime after the first two weeks, the puppies will begin to open their eyes and ears, and begin walking on all fours. This is when all the fun starts. It is also when you will become more active with their care.
Depending on how well they are doing and on the matron's care and ability to produce milk will determine when you will begin to start the weaning process.
Keep a close eye on the matron's body condition and how often the pups demand feeding. As soon as you notice any changes (demanding more feedings), it is time to introduce the litter to their first taste of puppy food.
There are several schools of thought on what should be used first so, for this discussion, we'll use what has worked for me in the past, keeping in mind that different breeds have different needs that you should be aware of.
The first week of meals I offer my litters is a combination of bitch's milk (sold by your vet or a well-supplied pet food supplier) and dry baby rice cereal (human type). If you use dry milk be sure to boil and cool the water to a warm temperature before you make up the milk substitute. Then add the dry cereal a little at a time to avoid lumps. The mixture should not be soupy or so thick that a spoon will stand alone. Do not whip or use a food processor as they incorporate air into the mixture, which will cause colic. The food should be served warm to the touch, never hot or cold, and never save any leftovers.
