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My dog had puppies, one is barely moving. Why is mom anxious?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | German Shepherd | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 4 months old | 63 lbs

My dog gave birth 2 days ago and today i find her really nervous and anxious and she keeps moving one puppy away from the others and he is barely moving or breathing, any idea what could it be?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jacqueline Nobles, DVM, DACVECC

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Emergency/Critical Care Specialist

Published on December 12th, 2016

Hi, so sorry to hear that the puppy is not doing well. If the puppy is cold to the touch try to warm him or her with a blanket and make sure the airway is clear by gently opening the mouth. In some cases, we have to use a bulb syringe to remove saliva or secretions from the airway. Then attempt to get the puppy to nurse. If the puppy fails to show interest in nursing you should purchase a baby bottle and formula (Esbilac) and attempt to feed every 2 hours using. Also, stimulate the puppy to urinate and defecate by gently wiping the anus with a warm wet washcloth. If the puppy fails to show signs of improvement contact your veterinarian.

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    Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

    Licensed Veterinary Technician

    Published on

    If this is Rita's first litter, she may be inexperienced. Monitor the other pups for weight if you can. It seems she is rejecting this pup who may be ill or injured. You may need to remove him from the litter and hand raise him yourself. Have him examined by your veterinarian to diagnose injury or illness. You may need to bottle feed him and keep him clean and warm. Follow the link for info regarding hand raising pups. http://www.2ndchance.info/orphanpuppy.htm

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