Crazy Cat Vet Conference
Join the Crazy Cat Vet, Dr. Petra Černá, and Wisdom Panel™ speakers Jason Huff, PhD and Casey Knox, DVM for this year’s conference as we and other experts discuss current topics of importance to cat...
Pregnancy Care for Dogs: A Guide to Supporting Healthy Litters
As a breeder, managing your dog's pregnancy is a crucial part of your work. Every step of pregnancy care has a direct impact on the health of the dam and her puppies, including diet, environment, medical care and stress management. If you're new to breeding, consider reading “Should I breed? What to consider before breeding dogs" and our Breeding Checklist and Tips first. If you’re ready to move to the next step, here are some important things to know to support your bitch for a successful pregnancy and a healthy litter.
Understanding the Stages of Canine Pregnancy
A dog’s gestation period typically lasts around 63 days, or roughly nine weeks. Understanding the progression through each week helps you provide timely care for the mother and her developing puppies. Canine pregnancy can generally be divided into three trimesters, with key milestones during each stage:
-
Weeks 1-3: Fertilization and early cell division.
-
Weeks 4-6: Organ and skeletal development.
-
Weeks 7-9: Rapid growth, final development, and preparation for birth
Regular veterinary check-ups throughout these stages help to both confirm the pregnancy and monitor the mother’s and puppies’ health.
Nutrition: The Foundation of a Healthy Pregnancy
A nutrient-rich, balanced diet is essential throughout pregnancy. In the first trimester, maintain the mother’s normal feeding schedule; there’s no need for extra food yet. Starting around the fourth or fifth week, her caloric needs will increase to support the growing puppies. Here’s how to approach feeding during pregnancy:
-
First Trimester (Weeks 1-3): Continue your dog's regular diet. Focus on quality over quantity and ensure she’s eating nutrient-dense food with high-quality protein sources.
-
Second Trimester (Weeks 4-6): Gradually increase her food intake by 20-30%. Some breeders find success by feeding a high-quality puppy food, preferably what you intend to feed the puppies later. The food must be nutrient-rich and support growth.
-
Third Trimester (Weeks 7-9): By this point, you should increase your dog’s food to about 50% more than her pre-pregnancy intake. Smaller, more frequent meals are best, as her expanding uterus leaves less room in her stomach.
Adding a vitamin supplement can be beneficial, but consult with your veterinarian before introducing anything new, as an imbalance in minerals like calcium or phosphorus can lead to complications. Research has also shown that probiotics may also help the mother and puppies.
Monitoring Weight and Body Condition
Throughout pregnancy, maintaining an ideal weight is vital. Excessive weight gain can lead to delivery complications, while insufficient weight can affect the health of both your bitch and her litter. If you’re unsure about her body condition, speak with your vet—they can help monitor her weight gain to ensure it’s on track for a healthy pregnancy.
Exercise and Activity Levels
Moderate exercise is encouraged throughout pregnancy, as it helps keep your dog’s muscles toned and supports overall health. However, as the pregnancy progresses, especially into the third trimester, be mindful of overexertion. Avoid activities that involve jumping or strenuous running; opt instead for gentle walks and play that allow her to stay active without undue stress.
Veterinary Care: When and What to Check
Regular veterinary visits provide you with peace of mind and the chance to address any issues as they arise. Here’s what to expect:
-
Initial Pregnancy Confirmation: Around days 21-28, your vet can perform an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy.
-
Mid-Pregnancy Check-Up: Around day 45, radiographs (X-rays) can be used to count puppies, as their skeletons have started to mineralize. This lets you to know how many puppies to expect.
-
Pre-Whelping Examination: In the final week, a pre-whelping visit can provide final health assessments and check for near-term complications and give you a chance to ask any last-minute questions.
It’s also a good idea to talk to your vet early on about a plan should an emergency arise: who can you call after hours if you have a problem, and who do they recommend sees your dog if they aren’t available? Keeping emergency contact information in your whelping kit is a good idea so you don’t have to search for it.
Preparing for Whelping
In the final phase of pregnancy, set up a calm, safe, and welcoming space for the mother and her soon-to-arrive puppies. This whelping area should be in a quiet part of the home, away from other animals, children, distractions and drafts, to ensure a stable, comfortable environment.
Essentials for the Whelping Area:
-
Bedding: Soft, clean, low-lint bedding will keep her comfortable and help keep the area sanitary.
-
Temperature Control: The area should be kept warm, ideally between 85-90°F, especially during the first few days after birth, as puppies can’t regulate their body temperature.
-
Whelping Kit: Stock up on essentials such as clean towels, antiseptic, gloves, and sterile scissors for umbilical cords. While many dogs deliver without issues, it’s best to be prepared for any possibility.
Emotional Support and Stress Reduction
Pregnancy can be a physically and emotionally demanding time, so minimizing stress is key. Keep your bitch’s routine as consistent as possible, limit travel or changes to her environment, and make sure she’s comfortable with her surroundings. Gentle affection, reassurance, and a calm environment can significantly ease her stress.
Monitoring for Signs of Labor
As your dog’s due date approaches, be on the lookout for signs of labor. Some common indicators include:
-
A drop in body temperature (from around 101-102°F to 99°F or lower)
-
Restlessness, nesting behaviors, and reduced appetite
-
Increased licking or attention to her abdomen
Each dog may show different signs, so knowing your bitch's baseline behavior will help you notice subtle changes.
Your Role in Supporting a Successful Pregnancy
Taking the time to monitor your bitch's health, provide good nutrition, and create a supportive environment can make a significant difference in the outcome of her pregnancy. By combining attentive daily care with regular veterinary support, you’re giving her and her puppies the best start possible.
Remember, every pregnancy can bring unique challenges and surprises, so adaptability is a key asset. With your dedication and knowledge, you’re providing a foundation for strong, healthy puppies who will bring joy to their future homes.
References:
Fontaine E. Food intake and nutrition during pregnancy, lactation and weaning in the dam and offspring. Reprod Domest Anim. 2012 Dec;47 Suppl 6(Suppl 6):326-30. doi: 10.1111/rda.12102. PMID: 23279530; PMCID: PMC7169170.
Lopate C. Ultrasonography for the evaluation of pregnancy in the female canine. Reprod Domest Anim. 2023 Sep;58 Suppl 2:144-162. doi: 10.1111/rda.14446. PMID: 37724659.
