Puppy behaviour

I have just got an 8-week old bichon frise. His first few days with us were hectic as everybody cam round to see him, giving him cuddles etc.

It is almost a week now, and for the past few days he has lost his appetite, has intense bursts of activity and then sleeps for about 2-3 hrs.

Is this normal? Did we wear him out in those first days?

Hi
Puppies usually sleep A LOT, and often do so even more for the first week or so after they leave their canine family, as they adjust to their new home and surroundings. Almost every activity is usually followed by a nap, this is normal!It's not usual for them to lose their appetite for a short while either.

It may be that all the activity kept your pup so busy that it's only now that he's had a chance to feel homesick etc. Puppies do actually NEED to sleep, it's when they do most of their growing, so it's an important part of their development and nothing to worry about.

Your pup may be extra-tired due to the stress of all the commotion his arrival caused, but he's stronger than he looks and will soon bounce back. Try to keep things at home calm and relaxed and give him a chance to 'catch up'.

The only time that you really need to worry about him sleeping, is if he seems unwell in other ways. For example if he has diarrhea or vomiting as well as a loss of appetite, seems totally disinterested in his surroundings, toys etc., and seems too tired to move, then he needs to see a veterinarian. Lethargy can be one of the symptoms of several serious dog illnesses that puppies are susceptible to.

You may want to check out my Puppy Development page for information on the different phases and stages puppies go through.

Best of luck with your little guy!
It's not usual for them to lose their appetite either.