Caring for a pregnant dog

Will there be puppies in your house soon? Congratulations, this is so cool! In the meantime, this has not happened, your pet needs sensitivity and attention. We will talk about how to care for a pregnant dog in our article.

Pregnancy is a natural condition, not a disease. Without indications, the rhythm of a healthy dog’s life should not change dramatically.

In the first third of pregnancy, the only thing that needs to be changed is feeding. The expectant mother needs a special diet designed specifically for pregnant and lactating dogs. Your pet now needs more vitamins and minerals, because babies are developing at the speed of light – future beautiful and strong dogs.

It is recommended to choose super premium food for pregnant and lactating dogs. Its composition is carefully balanced, and the basis of the feed is selected meat. You do not have to worry about the health of the dog and puppies. Any treats you give your dog should also be healthy.

With a natural type of feeding, be sure to coordinate the diet with a veterinarian and select special vitamin and mineral supplements.

The expectant mother will need veterinary control. The specialist will take the necessary tests, monitor the pregnancy and, if necessary, the birth itself. The task of the owner is not to miss appointments and strictly follow the recommendations of the veterinarian.

Treatment for parasites and the use of any medications must be agreed with a veterinarian. During pregnancy, many things are contraindicated, and this is not just a precaution, but a matter of life for the dog and babies. Don’t risk your health.

No stress. It is not useful for any dog, especially a pregnant one. If possible, keep the dog away from small children, postpone travel and any procedures that may excite the pet.

Only moderate loads. If earlier you loved to drive the dog properly, now it’s time for more relaxed walks. This does not mean that the dog should not be allowed to move. On the contrary: activity is useful for her. But she should not go beyond comfort. Do not let your pet get tired and overwork.
Prevention of excess weight. To prevent the dog from gaining more than necessary, in no case do not overfeed it (follow the feeding rate indicated on the diet package) and walk more often. It is not necessary to force the dog to exercise, it is better to just walk quietly, especially in the last third of pregnancy.
Increase the number of walks. Starting in the second third of pregnancy, the growing uterus presses on the bladder. The number of walks needs to be increased.
Feed often and in small portions. The growing uterus presses on the stomach, and the dog will not be able to eat a normal portion at a time. It is better to break one serving into several doses.
Don’t feel the puppies. No matter how much you want to get to know them as soon as possible, do not rush. Home attempts to feel babies can harm their health! Have your veterinarian examine you.
Avoid hypothermia. We do not bathe the dog unnecessarily, we do not let it freeze on the street, we protect it from drafts at home. The pet should have a warm bed, which must always be kept dry and clean.
We are preparing the nest. A couple of weeks before the expected birth, prepare a place for the dog and future puppies. It should be warm, dry, cozy and with sides: so that the kids do not crawl. In this house, no one should disturb the dog and puppies.