New Puppy Advice

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I have three Chihuahua puppies, that are three months old, and they will be going to their new homes soon. I'd like to know what the best way would be to separate puppies from Mom.

I'd also like to know what I can tell the new owners to do to help the pups adjust to their new homes with the least amount of trauma.

Thank You!

Expert Reply

Hello,

First, let me commend you on not being in a rush to send your pups out the door at eight weeks old. Chihuahuas are especially delicate, and it's always better to wait until they are twelve weeks old to make sure they are eating on their own and growing strong.

Separation from mom should have begun around eight to nine weeks old. With my own litters, I would begin taking mom away from them when I gave the pups their first feeding in the morning, and would simply delay her return for an additional hour each day until she was only being put back with them for the evening.

Overnights are the hardest for any new owner and puppy to get through. There's no sure fire trick for helping a pup sleep through the night, but I do have a few suggestions.

• First, puppy has to have a definite place of its own. I always recommend a roomy crate, with a nice cushion or bed, and a lining of newspapers or wee wee pads.
• Always make sure puppy has been given a chance to empty its bowels and bladder right before bedtime.
• Playtime about one hour before bedtime will also help wear puppy out, but don't expect it to go to sleep immediately after the session. The pup needs a little time to wind down, and that's why you should play an hour prior.
• Puppy needs something to chew on to relive stress. I love stuffing a puppy Kong with a milk bone. The pup becomes interested in trying to get the treat out, and I get a few more hours of sleep.
• A warm towel from the dryer can also be comforting and help the pup relax enough to sleep.
• The ticking of an alarm clock might provide a similar sound to another heart beat, and make puppy feel more secure.

One thing I never do is tell the new owner to completely ignore puppy's cries, because you never know if there's truly a problem unless you check. The owner should have a look if there's excessive noise, but not reward the pup with attention, or it will be trained to have the owner come on command.

I hope you find these suggestions useful, and best wishes for finding wonderful homes for your little charges.

~~ Kelly