What can I do for canine runts?

Answer by  kipcat (1964)

From personal experience, runts are no different than the other puppies, except maybe in size. I had a 'runt' that lived for 14 yrs and she was healthy and happy every single one of them. You may have to put a little more effort into teaching them to eat regular food, but training is the same as with other puppies.

Answer by  Roland27 (16334)

All you can do is make sure that the dog food you're giving the puppy has high protein which allows your pup to grow. Weigh him to make sure he's getting larger. Being a runt isn't bad and your dog will probably grow up to be the proper size.

Answer by  DogLady85 (171)

Make sure they get access to their mother's milk and keep them warm. Pay extra attention even after they're weaned, they can have problems that aren't obvious until they're older.

Answer by  Dreamlight (856)

If you are referring to a runt that the mama dog has rejected then the best way to keep them alive is to do everything the mama dog would do. You need to feed them (bottle feeding is good) and keep them warm and safe.