Caring for a 15-day-old German Shepherd puppy is a delicate task, requiring meticulous attention from the owner. These young pups are quite fragile and need specialized care to thrive. Besides keeping them warm, if they don't have access to their mother's milk, they'll need to be fed with puppy milk replacer (often goat's milk formula), and this needs to be done approximately every two hours. Moreover, at this age, they can't urinate or defecate independently, so owners need to assist them with stimulation.
Feeding a 15-Day-Old German Shepherd Puppy
At 15 days old, German Shepherd puppies are still entirely dependent on milk for their nutrition. Ideally, they should be nursing from their mother. However, if a mother dog isn't available, you must use a high-quality puppy milk replacer, preferably a goat's milk-based formula, formulated for puppies. These feedings should occur roughly every two hours, with a quantity of about 2-5 ml each time. Consistency and the right amount are crucial for their development.
Maintaining the Right Environment for Your Puppy
Maintaining the proper ambient temperature is also crucial for these young pups. Their immune systems are still very weak, leaving them susceptible to chills and colds, which can quickly become fatal. It's recommended to keep the surrounding environment between 22-25°C (72-77°F). This stable temperature is essential for their health and survival.
Assisting with Elimination
Finally, a 15-day-old German Shepherd puppy cannot independently control their bladder and bowels. Therefore, you'll need to gently stimulate their anal and urethral areas using a warm, damp cotton swab or soft tissue to help them urinate and defecate. This should be done after each feeding. It simulates the mother licking them. By taking these steps, you are ensuring your 15-day-old German Shepherd puppy gets the best start in life.