Discovering your dog is pregnant is an exciting time! Just like human mothers, your furry friend needs extra special care and attention during this important period. Your support is crucial to ensuring she stays healthy and her puppies receive the best possible start in life.

This guide will walk you through the simple steps you can take to provide the best care for your expecting dog, from confirming the pregnancy to welcoming her new litter.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy

Step 1: Get a Vet’s Confirmation
If you suspect your dog is pregnant, the first step is to visit your veterinarian. They can confirm the pregnancy and give you a timeline. Around day 25-30, an ultrasound can not only confirm the pregnancy but can also show how many puppies to expect, which is very helpful to know when it’s time for delivery.

Step 2: Nutrition – Feeding for Two (or More!)
Your dog’s diet is the foundation of a healthy pregnancy.
Quality is Key: Switch to a high-quality, balanced dog food. Your vet can often recommend a great brand or a specific “puppy” or “performance” formula, which is higher in the nutrients she needs now.
*Little and Often: As her belly grows and space shrinks, she’ll find it hard to eat large meals. In the final few weeks, offer smaller meals three to four times a day.
* Gradual Increase: Don’t double her food right away. Her food intake should gradually increase, peaking near the end of pregnancy when she might be eating about 1.5 times her normal amount.

*Step 3: Keep Her Gently Active
* Moderate Exercise: Continue with gentle walks and light play. This keeps her muscles strong and prevents excessive weight gain.
* Listen to Her:* As the pregnancy progresses, she will naturally tire more easily. Avoid strenuous activities such as running, jumping, or rough play. Let her set the pace.

*Step 4: Create a Cosy, Stress-Free Environment
Pregnant dogs need plenty of rest. Make sure she has a quiet, comfortable spot with soft bedding where she can relax undisturbed. Try to keep her routine as normal as possible and avoid loud noises or stressful situations.

*Step 5: Watch for Warning Signs
Keep an eye on her general health. Contact your vet if you notice:
* A loss of appetite
* Excessive vomiting
* Unusual discharge
* Extreme lethargy

*Step 6: Prepare for the Big Day (Whelping)
Around two weeks before her due date, get her “whelping box” ready. This is a safe, comfortable, and easily cleanable area where she can give birth. Let her get used to the box by placing her bed and treats inside.

*Step 7: Post-Natal Care for Mom
Once the puppies arrive, your job isn’t over!
* Nutrient-Rich Food: She’ll need a high-quality diet to produce enough milk. Keep feeding her the puppy food while she is nursing.
* Quiet Bonding Time: Give her and the puppies a quiet, private space to bond.
* A Post-Delivery Check: Schedule a vet visit for both mom and her puppies to ensure everyone is healthy.

Caring for a pregnant dog is a big responsibility, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding experience. By providing love, the right nutrition, and a calm environment, you are giving her and her future puppies the gift of a healthy beginning.

FAQs

Q: How can I tell if my dog is going into labour?
A: In the 24 hours before labour, she may seem restless, pant, shiver, or refuse food. She will often start “nesting”—scratching at her bedding in the whelping box. When you see these signs, it’s time to keep a close watch and have your vet’s emergency number handy.

Q: Will my dog’s personality change while she’s pregnant?**
A: It’s very common. Many dogs become more affectionate and clingy, seeking extra comfort from their owners. Others might want a little more space. Be patient and follow her lead, giving her the attention or quiet she needs.

 

For expert guidance through your dog’s pregnancy and whelping, our veterinary team is here to help. From prenatal check-ups to post-natal care, we’ll ensure a smooth journey for your expectant mother. Call us at 8851172126, visit www.Zuka.in, or drop by our clinics in Delhi, Gurgaon, and Noida.