Baby prairie dogs make more suitable pets than wild-caught adults, as they are more easily trained and socialized. Most pet prairie dogs available in the U.S. are black-tailed prairie dogs. To ensure a healthy start, acquire your baby from a USDA-licensed breeder. When selecting your prairie dog, look for bright, clear eyes, a clean nose free of discharge, a healthy weight, and alert, inquisitive behavior. Avoid any animal with signs of external parasites, dental issues, or visible sores. If possible, ask whether the prairie dog has been spayed or neutered.
Nutrition for Baby Prairie Dogs
Baby prairie dogs, particularly those under six months of age, require a higher protein diet compared to adults. We recommend the following feeding protocol:
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For pups under 8 weeks old:
These young animals may require milk supplementation until weaned. We recommend Exotic Nutrition’s Specialty Milk Replacer, a nutritionally balanced powdered formula designed for baby prairie dogs. Mix this with equal parts unflavored Pedialyte or Gatorade to help with hydration and electrolytes. Feed slowly using a 5cc plastic syringe (available in our Nursing Supplies section), and be cautious to avoid aspiration. -
From 8 weeks to 6 months:
Offer Exotic Nutrition’s Prairie Dog Food along with Monkey Biscuits and Timothy Pellets. These products provide the essential nutrients growing prairie dogs need. Continue to offer milk replacer as needed if the pup is not fully weaned. -
After 6 months:
Transition to Exotic Nutrition’s Prairie Dog Food (formerly Prairie Dog Diet), a formula specifically designed for adult prairie dogs. Continue offering Timothy Pellets for additional fiber. -
Supplements & Enrichment:
Offer Timothy Hay Cubes for foraging enrichment and dental health.
Housing Recommendations
The ideal enclosure for a baby prairie dog is a spacious, durable metal cage with multiple levels for movement and stimulation. We recommend Exotic Nutrition’s Mansion Cage for its sturdy construction and vertical space, which mimics a natural burrow. Add soft bedding such as aspen shavings or hay (avoid cedar shavings), and provide nesting material, tunnels, chew toys, and nest boxes to prevent boredom and support natural behaviors.
Socialization and Bonding
Prairie dogs are highly social animals. If you cannot provide constant companionship, consider keeping a pair. Same-sex pairs generally do well, especially if neutered. Neutering also prevents aggression during breeding season and unplanned pregnancies.
When you bring your prairie dog home, handle it regularly—even if it initially resists. Daily interaction builds trust and reduces the risk of aggression or biting later. Using gloves may help in the beginning. Prairie dogs communicate with a variety of sounds; with time, you’ll learn to understand their vocalizations.
Health and Lifespan
With proper care, prairie dogs live 8–10 years. Males are typically larger than females, ranging from 1.5 to 3.5 pounds. Obesity is a common issue among pet prairie dogs, often due to poor diet or lack of activity. Encourage exercise through supervised playtime and leash training. Use a secure figure-H harness and allow your pet time to adjust before going on walks.
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Notice: Exotic Nutrition cannot provide specific care guidelines on an individual basis. Please consult a veterinarian or experienced breeder.
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