Breeding Your Dog (Part 8 )
puppy chow, they will begin to refuse or shy away from the gruel mixture. That is just as it should be. By the end of week five, all the puppies should be eating puppy chow while still nursing. If you notice any of the puppies getting teeth, it is time to start cutting back on the matron's food, while offering more food to the pups. In the natural course of events, the matron will be less interested in nursing and the puppies will become more interested in their chow. Sometime between week 6 and the end of week 7, the litter should be on puppy chow only. A slow change over is best for the matron, allowing her milk to dry up slowly.
A note on puppy chow and large breeds: Breeders of large dogs are now feeding their litters adult food once the litter has stopped nursing. The theory is that large breeds grow too fast, placing a strain on growing bones and joints. By placing them on good quality adult food, you are slowing down their growth rate, giving the bones and joints time to develop so they can support the weight of the body. Many believe this helps prevent hip and elbow dysplasia.
Placing your pups in good homes
Once the eyes and ears open and your puppies are moving around easily, you will begin to notice their personalities develop. Some more active than others, some more aggressive than others, and so on. However, while you are watching, Mom is watching too. She knows who the bullies are and she will reprimand the troublemakers when needed. Because her actions help form their personalities, I like to keep all my puppies until their 9th week.
By this time, you will know their personalities as well as Mom does and you will be able to place each accordingly. I'll place a high-energy dog in a home with children who will keep him busy and help work off the extra energy. The more laid-back dogs will go to quiet homes, usually with no children, or an older couple. I prefer to place my dogs rather than letting the buyer pick, unless the person has experience with the breed and dogs in general. Most buyers will look for a cute playful puppy when in reality what they get could be a real handful. Let common sense be your guide.
When evaluating a prospect home, be sure to ask
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