Main Aspects Of Breastfeeding In Dogs
Breastfeeding in dogs is a relatively little discussed topic. There is no doubt that the canine breed has continued to reproduce from time immemorial, without any help from man. Nevertheless, in order to adequately assist our four-legged friends, it is important to have correct and precise information.
In the following lines we will talk about the main aspects that you need to know so that you can take care of the puppies that are about to enter (or have already entered) your homes in the best possible way. Take note!
1. Breastfeeding is the first vaccination a mammal receives
The intestine is important not only for its role in nutrition, but also because it is the largest immune system organ in the mammalian body. About 70% of the body’s immune system is found in the gastrointestinal tract.
In function of this aspect, the interaction between the intestinal lymphoid tissue and the agents supplied by the mother’s milk is fundamental for the protection of the newborn against infections.
2. At birth, the intestine has not yet reached full organ maturity
Throughout life, the intestinal walls offer each mammal unique protection. The intestinal walls act as a physical barrier that prevents the passage of dangerous substances and infectious agents.
In infants, this barrier is not yet fully formed. This aspect has an advantage: the substances carried by the mother’s milk cross this barrier, to the benefit of the newborn.
In fact, in this way the mother “gives” to the puppy a community of white blood cells that come from her own blood, with the task of supervising and protecting the newborn during its first days of life.
3. Colostrum is essential for puppy health
The mammary secretion of the first post-partum day is called “colostrum”. Colostrum is rich in nutrients that help strengthen the puppy’s immature immune system.
It also helps establish a balance of the bacteria that will colonize the puppy’s intestines. The beneficial bacteria work by promoting the absorption of nutrients and, at the same time, reducing the risk of suffering from infections, diarrhea and intestinal inflammation.
The establishment of a “good” intestinal microflora also induces the maturation of the cells of the intestinal walls and of the barrier function. Research has been carried out which verified the effectiveness of colostrum in improving immunity and modulating intestinal microflora in puppies.
4. Lactation in dogs is essential to neutralize pathogenic microbes
One of the protective functions of the intestine consists in the elimination of pathogenic microorganisms and the neutralization of toxins. These functions are generally associated with the action of IgA antibodies, which recognize pathogenic microbes and intervene in their elimination.
Breast milk represents the richest secretion of IgA. The union of IgA immunoglobulins with pathogens prevents their adhesion to the surfaces of the intestinal mucosa, thus preventing the onset of infection by bacteria, viruses and parasites.
5. Breast milk contains probiotic bacteria and promotes their proliferation
There is a diverse group of lactic acid producing bacteria (known as “lactobacilli”) which has a beneficial effect on the health of puppies. The benefit offered by probiotic lactobacilli occurs during breastfeeding, but lasts after weaning, until reaching adulthood.
Probiotics have been shown to reduce the incidence, severity and duration of diarrhea. Breast milk contains sugars that the intestines cannot digest. Lactobacilli bacteria feed on these sugars and proliferate in the infant’s intestine.
6. Lactation in dogs has a variable duration
The key to avoiding mistakes when it comes to weaning is good observation. You have to take into account two factors: your dog’s breed and its growth rate.
There is no need to remember that every litter is different. A litter of eight puppies will need the introduction of complementary feeding before one that is made up of three puppies, if only to offer some rest to the mother.
In general, weaning occurs around 5 weeks of age in smaller dog breeds. A puppy in good condition should be playful and full of energy, and have thick, bright fur. Brown colored stools are a sign that your puppy is digesting nutrients well.
A final recommendation is not to accelerate the separation of the litter from the mother. Even after weaning, dogs learn many important lessons from their mothers and littermates. These lessons include bite control, identifying your place in the litter and the correct way to play.
