Top Tips for a Healthy Dog Pregnancy

You're pleased when your dog is happy, and it's even more crucial to make sure your pet is as healthy and comfortable as possible during pregnancy, for both the expectant mother and the new babies!

There are a number of things you can do to make sure everything runs properly and reduce the stress of having small bundles of joy.  It's a thrilling moment!  Your dog will require your love and care more than ever during pregnancy.  To ensure that your dog has all they need, keep in mind that you will need to make a few little adjustments to the way you care for them as their body changes.

 

Feeding and nutrition during your dog's pregnancy

Most dog owners worry what to feed their pregnant pets, so you're not the only one!  You must make dietary adjustments to ensure your pet gets the nutrients they require from their food since normal adult-formula dog food won't give them the extra nutrients they need during pregnancy.

Just before mating, gradually transition your dog back to a premium puppy formula, introducing her gradually over a span of 7–10 days to prevent stomach distress.  It is recommended that your dog continue on this new formula until the puppies have been weaned and the dog has given birth.

Additionally, what you feed your dog will be determined by the body condition regarding other health issues they may have had in the past or present, so before switching the diet, be sure to see your veterinarian.

Visit to learn more about what to feed a pregnant dog feeding during pregnancy.

"Dogs are a man's greatest friend, but they also require your attention during pregnancy.  Purina provides easy-to-follow advice on how to help them throughout pregnancy."

 

Exercise and dog pregnancy

To ensure your dog is prepared for the birth of the tiny ones, daily walks will help them stay strong throughout pregnancy.  Pregnant women should avoid rigorous training, displaying, or even obedience instruction since these activities are be stressful and might cause harm to the unborn puppies.

Pregnant women who walk regularly will stay in better shape and be better equipped to handle labour and delivery.  Mom will probably get a little uncomfortable and exhausted as her pregnancy progresses, so try to make her walks shorter but more frequent.  Try to get in three or five quick strolls each day.

 

Are vaccinations allowed during your dog's pregnancy?

Your pet should ideally be up to date with all of its vaccinations since mothers give their pups immunity through their milk dog vaccines in order for her antibody levels to be at their highest before to mating.

Consult your veterinarian if your dog's vaccines are past due while you are pregnant. Certain vaccinations can be administered during pregnancy, but you must confirm which are safe for the mother and her unborn children.

Parasite treatment during dog pregnancy

A crucial aspect of caring for a pregnant dog is keeping up with flea and worming treatments.

Keep your dog healthy and use products that are safe to use while pregnant since a mother can transmit roundworms and hookworms to her unborn puppies. Talk to your veterinarian about this since the puppies could also require frequent worming during the first few weeks of their lives.

 

Building a ‘nest’ in the final stages of your dog's pregnancy

Your dog will need a quiet, private space to rest and give birth in the last weeks of pregnancy.  By creating a "nest" where your pet may feel safe, cosy, and warm throughout the puppy delivery, you can assist them.

 Clean blankets, sheets, or towels in a cardboard box are especially useful.  To avoid being disturbed by kids or other pets, place the nest in a peaceful area.  Although it's common for soon-to-be mothers to select a different location than the nest you've constructed, attempt to gently nudge her back to the area you've selected.

To ensure your dog and the new puppies are comfortable, keep the nest at room temperature (don't forget to look for any drafts).

Next, find out more about the potential dog birth and labour problems and what you need to look out for.