Breeding pets isn’t for everyone, or even most. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, and passion for the breed. If you are someone who has decided to breed their dog, however, you know how overwhelming it can be to take care of your pregnant pet.
Luckily for you, Billings Animal Family Hospital has enormous expertise and experience in the area. We are always happy to help our clients with their canine reproductive care needs.
Prenatal Care for Your Dog
Dogs are pregnant for approximately 63 days and, just as in their human counterparts, experience changes in metabolism during their pregnancy. It is important to make the appropriate adjustments to her care during this time in order to help her have a healthy, strong litter. Be sure to do the following for your pregnant dog:
Postnatal Care for Your Dog
As important as it is to care for a pregnant dog, it is even more vital to properly care for a nursing mom and pups. You have two areas of focus now:
Caring for the Mother Dog – Most new mothers instinctually know to take care of themselves and their puppies. Be sure to keep them in a clean, quiet, warm area. Do not allow other pets and children to bother them. Be sure to pay close attention to your dog’s vaginal discharge. It is normal for her to have a reddish brown discharge called lochia that starts off very watery and becomes thicker over a few weeks. Also be sure that your dog is producing milk. Examine her mammary glands daily to be sure that they are not inflamed or painful. Continue to feed her a high calorie food until she is done nursing.
Caring for the New Puppies – Puppies are helpless when they are first born. They depend on their mother (and you) for all of their basic needs. Perhaps the most important thing that they need is help regulating their body temperature, especially during the first few weeks of life. Keep their area temperature-regulated and free of drafts. You may wish to provide heat lamps or other heat sources, but remember that puppies are unable to move away easily if they become too hot.
It is nice for us to be able to examine mom and her puppies within the first 24-48 hours after birth so that we can examine everybody and be sure that there are no problems. This is an excellent opportunity for us to help you with any questions or concerns you may have as well.
While spaying or neutering is often the best option for most pets and owners, having a litter can be a wonderfully rewarding experience. Should you decide to breed your dog, Billings Animal Family Hospital is excited and happy to help you along the way.
