Dog Pregnancy Care Guide: Signs, Nutrition, and Labor Prep

Published on March 3 by Julia

A dog’s pregnancy is an exciting yet critical period that requires special care and attention. Whether you’re a breeder or a pet owner expecting a litter, ensuring a healthy pregnancy is essential for the well-being of both the mother and her puppies. From nutrition to veterinary checkups, every aspect of care plays a role in a successful pregnancy. This article provides essential tips to help your dog have a smooth and healthy pregnancy.

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1. Confirm the Pregnancy with a Vet

One of the first steps in caring for a pregnant dog is confirming the pregnancy with a veterinarian. A vet can use various methods to diagnose pregnancy, such as:

• Ultrasound (as early as 25 days post-mating)
• Palpation (feeling the abdomen at 3–4 weeks)
• X-rays (after 45 days to count puppies)

A vet visit will also help detect any potential complications early on.

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2. Provide a High-Quality Diet

Proper nutrition is crucial during pregnancy. Here’s how to adjust your dog’s diet:

• First 4 Weeks: Maintain her regular high-quality dog food.
• Week 5 Onward: Gradually switch to a premium, protein-rich puppy food to support fetal development.
• Small, Frequent Meals: As the puppies grow, the mother’s stomach will have less space for large meals.

Avoid calcium supplements, as excessive calcium can lead to complications such as eclampsia (low blood calcium levels).

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3. Maintain Moderate Exercise

Exercise is important but should be adjusted as pregnancy progresses:

• First 4–5 Weeks: Continue regular, moderate exercise like short walks and light play.
• Late Pregnancy (Week 6 Onward): Reduce strenuous activity but encourage gentle movement to prevent obesity and maintain muscle tone.

Avoid intense running, jumping, or rough play to prevent injury.

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4. Provide a Comfortable Whelping Area

A few weeks before delivery, introduce your dog to a whelping box where she will give birth. Choose a quiet, warm, and clean space. The box should be:

• Large enough for the mother to stretch out comfortably
• Lined with soft, clean bedding (easily washable)
• In a draft-free area with a stable temperature (around 75°F or 24°C)

Encourage her to sleep in the whelping box before labor so she feels secure.

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5. Monitor Her Health and Weight Gain

• Dogs typically gain 15–25% of their body weight during pregnancy.
• Monitor for signs of complications, such as excessive weight loss, lack of appetite, or unusual discharge.
• If your dog becomes lethargic or shows signs of distress, consult a veterinarian immediately.

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6. Schedule Veterinary Checkups

Routine vet visits help ensure a smooth pregnancy. Your vet will:

• Track fetal development
• Provide deworming (recommended around week 6–7)
• Discuss vaccination needs (avoid vaccines during pregnancy unless advised)

Tip: Deworming is essential to prevent parasites from being passed to the puppies.

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7. Recognize Signs of Labor

A dog's pregnancy lasts approximately 58–68 days, with an average of 63 days.
Signs that labor is near include:

• Nesting behavior (digging, scratching, or rearranging bedding)
• Restlessness or pacing
• Drop in body temperature (below 99°F or 37.2°C) about 24 hours before labor
• Panting, shivering, or licking the vulva

Be prepared with clean towels, scissors (for cutting umbilical cords if necessary), and your vet’s emergency contact.

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8. Know When to Seek Emergency Help

While most dogs give birth naturally, some may require assistance. Call a vet if:

• Contractions last over 30 minutes without delivering a puppy.
• A puppy is stuck in the birth canal for more than 15 minutes.
• There is excessive bleeding or a foul-smelling discharge.
• The mother shows extreme exhaustion or distress.

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Caring for a pregnant dog requires patience, attention, and preparation. By providing proper nutrition, veterinary care, and a comfortable birthing environment, you can help ensure a smooth pregnancy and healthy puppies. Always be ready for potential complications and consult a vet if you have concerns.

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