A pregnant dog has different needs. Pregnant dogs may show some signs that you haven’t seen before and perhaps, you have no idea what to do. So, here are some tips on how to care for your pregnant dog and help you know what to expect and what to do about it.
4 Ways to Care for Your Pregnant Dog
A pregnant dog is not a big deal if you are prepared for it and you know that it’s going to happen. If this is your first time, that’s probably is the reason why you’re here. So let’s jump into the ways to care for your pregnant dog.
1. Proper Diet and Nutrition
Pregnant dogs are most likely to have changes in their appetite. They may be more interested in eating or they may lose their appetite. However, no matter how big their appetite is, you should still consider their size because it can affect their babies inside. They should remain fit and healthy.
Boston Terriers, for example, is a brachycephalic breed and may experience a lot of complications if they become overweight during pregnancy. Poor nutrition can also result in a weak litter of Boston Terrier puppies. Give them quality food to support not just their nutrition, also the needs of the puppies. Their calories intake may kick up because they are sharing it with their babies.
Do not change their food and the amount that you give her unless you’re told by the vet. Doing it abruptly can cause stomach discomfort and other diseases may arise. As per your vet’s recommendation, give them smaller meals that are rich in protein on the latter part of their pregnancy.
2. Exercise
Exercise can help your dog give birth easily and lessen the pain of pregnancy just like in humans. However, you must know their limits and the proper kind of exercise that they should do. Most often than not, the most delicate part of dog pregnancy is during the first 2 weeks and the last 2 weeks.
They should do their normal walking during the first trimester of pregnancy and avoid strenuous activities. After the first trimester, which can last up to 4 weeks, you should give her shorter walks and make sure she’s not getting overly tired.
You should not allow her to jump from a bed or couch to the floor and even going up and down the stairs all the time. During the last trimester, which is about 8 to 9 weeks of pregnancy, your dog should not be allowed to mingle with other dogs. Indoor exercises are suggested at this stage.
3. Regular Vet Visits
Before allowing your dog to conceive, you should make sure that she is fit for it and her vaccinations and deworming are up-to-date. This is to lessen the possible complications that may arise during pregnancy that may affect both the mother and the puppies.
Deworming the mother dog with Fenbendazole starting from the third trimester up to one week after giving birth is recommended to reduce roundworms and hookworms in the newborn pups. Remember, before giving any kind of oral medicine to your dog, consult with your vet first.
4. Prepare for Giving Birth
If you don’t want your dog giving birth on your bed or somewhere that may endanger her and her pup’s life, you should be prepared for the moment of giving birth. You may set up a whelping box in a warm and quiet space in your house.
Put some old newspapers as the bottom layer to prevent blood stains on the floor. Layer it with some old blankets, towels, and puppy pads to absorb the liquids and blood that will come out of your mommy dog’s body. Make sure that your dog can lay down comfortably and there is still space for the newborn puppies.
Conclusion
Being prepared before, during, and after dog pregnancy can lessen the stress it can give you and the mommy dog. Proper care and guidance are what your dog needs especially if it’s their first time having a litter. Make sure they are healthy and their pups will be.
