Is this normal?

velvet81385 · 01-01-2011

Hey guys! So my boyfriend and I just adopted a 2 month old catahoula/hound mix from a local rescue. We named him Beef and he is the sweetest puppy....however, he came from a litter and since we have brought him home he has done nothing but sleep and barely eats. I am in vet school and have owned animals my whole life but this is the first time I have adopted....my theory is that he is just depressed from being separated from his family and is being thrown into a new and unfamiliar situation...but my boyfriend is worried about him so I thought I would throw the question out there to find out whether or not this was a normal occurrence in newly adopted pups. Any input would be helpful!

cigwyllt · 01-01-2011

How long have you had him? It is quite normal for a pup to sleep a lot in the first few days/week in a new home. My "pups" are age 7 and 3 but I know they barely seemed to be a wake in the first week.

Feeding too can be a bit hit and miss. Are you feeding him the same food as he had in the shelter? If you are not able to do that settle on a good quality food and feed him little and often. Don't make a fuss, just let him taste it and take it away after 10 mins and feed him again in a couple of hours.

It can take a few weeks for the most well adjusted/socialised pup to settle into a new home, when he has had a poor start as yours has it can take longer.

lange · 01-02-2011

Ditto Cig's memory. Having added a puppy this year, I had forgotten just how much they sleep when they're young. How long have you had the puppy for? It may still be getting used to being away from his littermates & not eating as much. Is she eating enough? You should be able to get an idea depending on how much she is peeing & potty-ing too.

Gingersmom · 01-02-2011

Have you taken him to your regular vet for a check up yet? I agree they should sleep alot when they are that young but they should also eat a decent amount. Have you had him long enough to tell if he has lost any weight since you adopted him? If I were truly worried I would take him to the vet that way if he is fine then you will know and if hes not then you will know what to do to help him I prefer to know for sure than to keep second quessing.

DoggieVogue · 01-07-2011

I would say that's pretty normal. Adjusting to a new situation and home can be stressful for the dog and it definitely takes some time to get used to. Is the puppy still eating a good amount though? I'd agree if you are really concerned, a vet checkup couldn't hurt! I hope the pup adjusts well soon