You might be wondering how to care for your pregnant dog if you own a dog and intend to breed it. A pregnant dog is referred to as a female dog that carries one or more puppies in her uterus. A pregnant dog is called a ‘dam’ or ‘bitch’. pregnant dog need special care and attention to ensure the health and well-being of her and her puppies. This article will cover some of the most important aspects such as:

1.How long are dogs pregnant?
2.What are the signs of pregnancy in dogs?
3.What are the stages of pregnancy in dogs?
4.What is the best diet for a pregnant dog?
5.How to feed a pregnant dog?

Pregnant dog – How long

A pregnant dog usually gives birth after about 63 days, or nine weeks, from the date of conception also it can range from 56 to 72 days. Duration of the pregnant dog how long can vary depending on the breed, litter size, and individual dog. There can be early birth or later than the average, so it is important to monitor your dog closely and consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns. As the owner, you can take your pregnant dog to frequent check-ups with your veterinarian for prenatal care. However, they can confirm your dog’s pregnancy, estimate the litter size, monitor fetal development, and advise you on any potential complications or risks. They can perform a physical examination, a blood test, an ultrasound, or an X-ray to diagnose your pregnant dog and monitor her health and the health of her puppies.

Signs of a pregnant dog

Several indications can be found for your dog being pregnant. The signs can depend. But the best practice would be taking her to the veterinarian for checkups. Here are some signs that indicate a pregnant dog:

Enlarged or discolored nipples

One of the first indications of pregnancy in dogs, this often appears two to three weeks after conception. As females are ready to give birth to a baby, the nipples get pinker and more noticeable.

Weight gain and swollen belly

Your dog will put on weight, and her stomach will round out and stiffen up as the puppies develop inside the uterus. During the last month of pregnancy, when your dog may put on 15–20% of her regular weight, this becomes more apparent.

Increased appetite

To fulfil her increased energy and food needs during pregnancy, your dog may eat more than usual. She might also grow pickier or develop a craving for particular meals.

Decreased energy and activity

As she bears the extra weight and hormones that affect her demeanor, your dog can become wearier and less energetic. She might also need more comfort and attention from you and sleep more.

Nesting behavior

Your dog can start seeking a cozy and safe spot to give birth as her due date near. To make a nest for herself and her puppies, she may scratch, dig, or arrange bedding.

Stages of a pregnant dog

Stages are the different phases that a female dog goes through from conception to delivery. Usually, pregnancy in dogs can be divided into three trimesters, each lasting about 21 days. During each trimester, different changes occur in the mother and the puppies. There are four stages of pregnancy in dogs.

Fertilization stage

In this stage, the male’s dog sperm meets the female dog’s egg. This occurs in the estrus phase of the female dog’s reproductive cycle when the egg is receptive to mating. Moreover, the fertilization lasts for about 2 days.

Embryonic stage

This occurs during 3-28 days of pregnancy. Here the fertilized egg travels towards the uterus and implants in the uterine wall. Then it starts to develop its organs, bones, skin, hair, and nails. This stage is very sensitive to external factors, such as stress, nutrition, and medication, and it is prone to miscarriage or resorption. The embryonic stage can be detected by a veterinarian through palpation or ultrasound.

Fetal stage

This phase of pregnancy lasts from day 29 to day 58. At this stage the embryo further develops a heartbeat, a coat of fur, a sense of hearing, a sense of smell, and a feeling of touch, and it resembles a familiar puppy. The puppy’s rapid growth and maturation are characteristics of the fetal stage. An ultrasound or X-ray can be used by a veterinarian to identify the fetal stage.

The delivery stage

This pregnant dog stage takes place between days 59 and 65 of pregnancy. The puppy is now prepared to be born and leaves the mother’s womb through the birth canal. Pre-labor, labor, and post-labor are the three parts of the delivery stage. Pre-labor symptoms include agitation, nesting behavior, appetite loss, panting, shaking, and clear or crimson discharge from the vulva. When a female dog is in labor, she has contractions and pushes the puppies out one at a time. The female dog cleans, feeds, and excretes the placenta after giving birth.

Pregnant Dog Diet

A pregnant dog’s diet must be high-quality, and balanced, to meet her increased energy and nutrient needs during pregnancy. Also, plenty of fresh water is required for the pregnant dog diet to stay hydrated and prevent dehydration as water is essential for pregnant dog feeding and lactation. You should avoid giving any table scraps, treats, supplements, or human foods that may be harmful or unnecessary for her during pregnancy as they may interfere with the pregnant dog feeding recimen.

Puppy food that has been particularly prepared for growth and reproduction is the healthiest pregnant dog diet. Compared to an adult diet, puppy food has more calories, protein, fat, calcium, phosphorus, and other vitamins and minerals. For maintaining the health of the mother and the growth of the puppies the nutrients mentioned above will be very crucial.

Around day 40 of pregnancy, you ought to gradually switch your dog from her regular adult meal to puppy food. To avoid upsetting her stomach, you should do this over a five-day period. Until she weans her babies, you should feed your dog puppy food. Moreover, you can consult a your veterinarian for specific pregnant dog diet recommendations 

Pregnant Dog Feeding

Pregnant dog feeding is a vital part of taking care of her since she requires more calories, protein, fat, and other nutrients to maintain both her and her puppies’ health. You can consult your vet for recommendations on particular pregnant dog feeding based on the breed, size, number of puppies, and stage of pregnancy.

Generally speaking, during the first six weeks of pregnancy, your pregnant dog feeding must be roughly 25% more food than usual. During the final three weeks of pregnancy, you should then raise this dosage by an additional 25%. To avoid stuffing her stomach to the point of indigestion or vomiting, you should break up her pregnant dog diet into three to five smaller meals. Throughout her pregnancy, you should keep an eye on your dog’s weight and overall health and alter her food consumption accordingly. By the end of the pregnancy, you should aim for a moderate weight rise of roughly 15 to 20 per cent of her normal weight. Avoid overfeeding or underfeeding your dog because both can have detrimental effects on both her health and the health of the puppies.

Additionally, make sure your dog has a spot to eat and drink that is tidy and distraction-free, away from other animals. Her bowls for food and water need to be kept fresh and clean, and you should wash them frequently.

Conclusion

Pregnancy period is an exciting time for you and your dog but it can require some extra attention and care towards your pregnant dog. By following the above discussed points, hope you can ensure a healthy and a happy pregnancy for your dog and her puppies.