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My 4-week-old puppy is away from mom. Is this safe? What to feed?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 1 month and 1 day old | 3 lbs

I have puppy's I got from a friend I just found out they are 4 weeks old it is safe for them to be away from mother they can eat soft dog food and canned dog food.

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Angel Alvarado, LVT

Licensed Veterinary Technician

Published on July 23rd, 2017

Ideally, they should stay with the mother and litter until at least 8 weeks of age. This can prevent behavioral issues as they get older. They can start weaning to solid foods beginning at about 4 weeks of age. If they can stay with the mother and litter while weaning, this would be best for them in the long run.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Amy Poole, DVM
Veterinarian
Ideally I like to wean puppies from their mothers around 8 weeks, however 4 week old puppies can be weaned. I would recommend you feed Bruno "puppy mush" or good quality puppy food soaked with warm water so it's mushy and easy to eat. I would feed at least 4 times a day as well. As he grows, you can slowly reduce the amount of water in the food. I also think its a good idea to take him in to your vet to be evaluated. While he is too young to start vaccines, he could be dewormed and evaluated to make sure he is healthy and at the appropriate weight and his diet does not need to be adjusted.
0Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA
Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist
Published on November 15th, 2018
I would offer the mush three times a day. At around 6 weeks they should be on mostly food, and you may see that Mattie is pushing them away in an attempt to wean. At that time, you can put her back on normal dog food instead of puppy food.
2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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When should 4-week-old puppies start solid food, considering teeth?

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