How to take care of a pregnant dog?

A dog’s pregnancy lasts, depending on the breed, from 55 to 72 days. Experts distinguish three periods, each of which involves special care for the pet. Let’s consider each of them in more detail.

First period (implantation): up to the 20th day

At this time, a restructuring takes place in the dog’s body, which is accompanied by a decrease in immunity and an increased load on the organs. At the first stage of pregnancy, it is highly recommended not to vaccinate the dog, as well as attend exhibitions and travel long distances. In addition, it is impossible to carry out treatment with anthelmintic and antiparasitic drugs.

It is important to try to spend more time with the dog in the open air, slightly increase the walking time. Moderate activity has a beneficial effect on the body of the animal.

The nature of feeding during this period should not be changed: an increase in the volume of portions is not yet required. It is best to consult your veterinarian about taking additional vitamins and minerals. Do not give them yourself: some vitamins in excess can cause irreparable harm to the health of puppies.

Second period (embryonic): 20–45 days

At this time, active cell division occurs, the embryo gains 30% of its mass, but there is still no need to increase the amount of food.

Walking in the second period of pregnancy is also recommended twice a day: growing puppies need oxygen. However, it is worth reducing the activity of the dog and the time of the walk so as not to tire the pet.

On the 42nd day of pregnancy, it is necessary to carry out deworming with milbemycin.

Third period (fetal): 45–62 days

There is a jump in the growth of puppies and body weight of the dog, which leads to an increase in appetite. It is recommended to increase not only the amount of feed (by 30-40%), but also its quality. Transfer your pet to a special food for pregnant and lactating dogs.

For example, Royal Canin offers four types of such food, depending on the size of the dog, Hill’s, Pro Plan and other brands have analogues. In addition, due to the increase in the amount of food, it is recommended to give it to the dog more often – 6-7 times a day, so that the pet does not experience discomfort at each meal. Right on the day of birth, refusal to eat may occur – this is normal. However, representatives of some breeds, more often Labradors and Spaniels, on the contrary, begin to eat more.

During pregnancy, it is necessary to slightly change the care of your pet, especially those items related to nutrition and physical activity. Do not forget to also monitor the condition of the teeth, coat, eyes and ears of the dog, as well as conduct a routine examination with a doctor.

12 2017 June

Updated: July 6, 2018