3 week old orphaned puppy HELP!

mikeandnat

About a day & a half ago, I inherited a (either 2 or 3 week old) schnauzer pup whose mom couldn't feed him. My husband and I have been bottle feeding him puppy formula, and he's eating really well. But the problem is, I can't get him to defecate. He's peeing after every feeding (and it's clear to pale yellow), but no number 2. Otherwise he looks pretty plump and healthy, his tummy doesn't feel hard, and he's sleeping for a few hours at a time and crawling around when he's awake. He only whines when he wants to eat. I've been stimulating him with a warm damp cotton ball (which is what my vet said to do), but still nothing. It's been over 36 hours and he still hasn't pooped.

 Is there anyone out there who has experience raising young pups who can give me some advice?

sgautschi

Have you called your vet about this? I know that when my dog was constipated, I was told to give him canned pumpkin. So I went to the baby food section at the grocery store and got some. You are supposed to mix it with the food. I also heard adding a half teaspoon of olive oil is another option. HOWEVER, I do not know if this is safe with a formula fed puppy. Please call your vet to ask if its safe. Good luck!

sgautschi

Also make sure he's getting lots of water and exercise. A deficiency in either could cause constipation. Also, anxiety can be a factor, so try to make sure he stays relaxed and calm. 

RedheadBaker

Why was the puppy separated from his mother, even if she wasn't feeding him? There's still crucial socialization that a mother dog teaches her puppies. In most states, that's illegal. Has the puppy been to a vet?? 

Tempo982

I know this will be redundant, but a pup going so long without pooing is not good. Trying to stimulate him to potty is a good start, but since that's not working, I'd take him to the vet - soon. Best of luck.

mikeandnat

I had spoken to my vet about it, and asked my cousin who works for a vet. Still nothing. But last night he made a little, and tonight finally he exploded with enough poop for 3 days, so I guess it was just the stress of the new environment? Anyway, he's all better now. Thanks for your advice!

sgautschi

mikeandnat:

I had spoken to my vet about it, and asked my cousin who works for a vet. Still nothing. But last night he made a little, and tonight finally he exploded with enough poop for 3 days, so I guess it was just the stress of the new environment? Anyway, he's all better now. Thanks for your advice!

Glad to hear he's doing better.  

aggiebug

When are you planning on taking him to see a vet?  Have you discussed with anyone deworming the puppy?  

 

I am glad that your initial problem is resolving! I just don't want another one to take its place  

mikeandnat

My vet said it was ok to wait until 6 weeks to bring him in, and they'd deworm him at that time. He's doing GREAT now, by the way! It's so exciting to see him opening his eyes, eating like a pig, walking around a little, wagging his little tail. So sweet! Thanks to all of you for the advice and concern!