pups

Pups is a general term used for the young of many mammal species. It is commonly applied to newborn and juvenile offspring, including dogs, but it also appears in everyday language for young of seals, foxes, rodents, and other animals. The term is usually used through the early juvenile period, after which species-specific terms or age classifications are typically used.

In dogs, a litter develops after a gestation of about 63 days. Newborn pups are altricial: they are blind, deaf, and depend on their dam for warmth and nutrition. They nurse for several weeks, and their senses begin to function gradually as they grow. Eyes usually open around 10 to 14 days, and hearing develops over a similar period. Weaning typically begins around four weeks and is usually complete by six to eight weeks. The first months are a critical socialization window, during which basic handling, exposure to people, and gentle training shape later behavior.

Care and management focus on providing warmth, nutrition, and veterinary oversight. A mother’s health and the puppy’s environment influence development. Puppies require appropriate vaccinations and deworming according to local schedules, as well as early socialization, bite-inhibition training, and age-appropriate enrichment. Guidance on feeding, growth rates, and exercise helps prevent obesity and orthopedic problems, especially in larger breeds.

Health and welfare considerations include routine preventive care, parasite control, dental development, and vigilance for signs of illness. Spaying or neutering is often discussed with a veterinarian when a puppy reaches an appropriate age. Adoption from shelters or rescue groups is common, with attention to the puppy’s temperament, health, and the prospective owner’s ability to provide lifelong care.

Terminology varies by species: while "pup" is widely used, many animals have distinct terms such as kit, cub, or joey.