4 week old Boxer puppy

I have a 4 week old boxer puppy which the mother pushed away and the owners had to get rid of the 11 puppies as they could not afford the time or money to bottle feed them all.

We started out feeding him a few ounces of formula and gradually started introducing some moist dog food which we moistened further so it would be easier for him to eat. Whenever he had the bottle, it seemed he would aspirate and vomit. He also started sneezing a bit with a thick yellowish discharge. We decided to give up on the bottle since he's been doing great on the food anyway and the vomiting seemed to get better.

Now he has uncontrollable sneezing fits that last about 30 seconds or less with lots of yellowish nasal discharge. Is this something that is normal for puppies his age to go through? I've been trying to research common problems in puppies his age and I'm starting to get a little worried.

He is eating wonderfully and seems to be growing, but the sneezing is out of control.









Hi
Considering the rough start he has had, it sounds as though overall this little guy is doing well... and I personally think you were right to discontinue the bottle as he's old enough to be eating solid food and lap, and there is a significant health risk when puppies aspirate fluid.

As he's eating and drinking well and is growing and active, it sounds as though he's pretty healthy. However, the sneezing and discharge is not normal and I strongly suggest that you get him to a vet for an examination.

Chances are that he has developed an upper respiratory tract infection, or an infection in his nasal passages, and it could well be due to the milk he inhaled while on the bottle. Luckily right now it doesn't seem to be causing serious problems, but left untreated it could well develop into a chest infection or even pneumonia which is very serious indeed - and could even be fatal.

You've done a great job with him so far but he does need to be seen by a vet now. Also, as he's not been getting his mothers milk and is away from his first home, he does need to be getting his first round of Puppy Shots to protect him from disease.

Hope this helps, best of luck with your puppy.