In the event that you find your dog expecting puppies, there are a few tips that could help you assist your dog. You might not know exactly when the dog got pregnant, but there are a few signs that you will notice when it comes closer to the time of delivery. Before the puppies are delivered, you need to make sure there is a warm and comfortable spot in the home for the dog to lay so that she can have the puppies in peace.
Expecting Puppies? 4 Tips When Your Dog Is Pregnant
Diet
You need to make sure that the dog is getting a food that is rich in nutrients. The food will deliver what the body will need to make milk for the puppies and to keep the dog healthy after the birth of the dogs. You want to find a food that has a high amount of protein and higher levels of calcium so that the puppies can develop properly. A few weeks before the puppies are born, it's not uncommon for her to eat about three times as much as she normally would.
Ultrasound Images
Whether you're curious as to how the puppies are doing or there are concerns with their development, you can take the dog to a vet to have an ultrasound performed using technology like the products found at Keebovet. The ultrasound will determine how many puppies there are and the position of the puppies so that you can tell if the dog might have difficulties delivering them.
A Safe Place
Before the dog goes into labor, you need to make a space for her that is soft and away from intrusions. This could be a box in a room of the house or even in a corner of a room. It should be in an area that is warm and free of loud noises. She will begin to nest in this area before the puppies are ready to be delivered.
Puppy Movements
When the puppies begin to grow and develop, they can often be seen moving in the stomach when the dog is laying on her side. You can sometimes see the puppies kicking each other and forming a ball. If you notice a lack of movement from the puppies, it could mean that the dog will go into labor soon or that there is something wrong with the puppies. If you feel that something is wrong, then you should consult a vet for assistance.
When your dog is pregnant, there are many things that you can do to make sure she is comfortable. Keep a safe place for her and her puppies, and make sure that she is getting enough to eat. A vet visit might be in order to see the puppies if there are questions or concerns.
Brandi Dawn says
Great tips. I think the diet tip is very important. Also, making sure your momma doggie is kept comfortable.
Debbie Campbell says
All of my dogs have been spayed, but I remember when my mom's german shepherd had puppies. This is good advice!
Adriane says
Puppy pics melt my heart 🙂
Lauryn R says
We are not expecting puppies, but this was a very informative post to read! Thank you so much for sharing! 🙂
Elissa Mahler says
Thank you for sharing these great, practical tips for handling a pregnant pooch.
justin orkin says
Ah, that's good to know. Make her comfy
Maryann D. says
These are all great tips and I would hope everyone who has a pregnant dog will follow them.
Renee Walters says
I would absolutely love it if my dog got pregnant. These tips are great if it happens (fingers crossed). Thanks!
Gloria Walshver says
My dog is not pregnant or has no puppies but I liked your tips if he was.
Brandi Dawn says
Awww, these tips give me goose bumps! I love little puppies! I wouldn't have thought to change up a mama dogs diet but that makes total sense!
Sarah L says
I've never had a dog get pregnant since mine have all been neutered.
Amy Orvin says
My dog has been spayed and I always encourage spaying and neutering. These are good tips though.
Molly says
We, of course, also encourage spay and neuter! However, sometimes it happens. Perhaps a stray that you take in or adopt. It has happened to us a few times with stray females we have adopted not knowing they came with a bundled surprise 🙂
Mia says
I have a friend who has bred dogs and it is a lot of work and dedication to make sure puppies and mama are safe and healthy.
April Monty says
These are some great tips,a lot of us don't know what to watch for when our ladies go into labor ,sending this to a few friends of mine .