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My orphaned puppy: sleep, play, socialization, and bite inhibition?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | unneutered | 25 days old | 3.307 lbs

Do puppies usually sleep a lot? He's 3 weeks and 4 days old, orphaned at his 2nd week. After feeding, he's slow and walks like a drunkard. Before feeding, he's usually very energetic. When will he start to play and explore? When will I have to find another dog/puppy for him to play with? What should I choose; his safety (not socialize him with other unvaccinated dogs) or his social life? How will he learn bite inhibition without his littermates/mum with him?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on May 25th, 2017

It is possible you are feeding too large a volume per meal, i recommend feeding smaller meals less often. Early socialization is important but ONLY with regularly vaccinated, healthy dogs. Do not encourage any hand/foot chasing or tug of war games as these can encourage play biting

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