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Caring for A Pregnant Pooch

December 01, 2024

Puppies are unquestionably some of the cutest creatures on the earth. Dogs can certainly have a lot of them! In just seven years, a single pair of pooches can produce 370,092 descendants! Canine pregnancies are usually rather easy to manage. Of course, just like any other expecting mother, your dog will require extra attention during this special time. Continue reading to learn more about caring for a pregnant dog from a local Galloway, OH veterinarian.

Basics on Dog Pregnancy

Gestation in dogs typically lasts two months, or 62-64 days. However, there is some variation. Also, keep in mind that the conception date may not coincide with the breeding date. Breed and litter size are also factors to consider. Litter sizes normally range from three to fifteen puppies. However, there have been some exceptions on both sides of the spectrum.

During the first month, fertilized eggs adhere to the uterine horn’s lining. They then double in size almost every week after that. During the second month, the tiny little beans start to resemble puppies.

How Do I Know if My Dog Is Pregnant?

By the time a dog is nearing delivery, the pregnancy may be visible to the naked eye. However, it can be difficult to tell in the beginning stages. Your best option is to take your dog to a veterinary clinic.

Palpation is the easiest method, which involves manually feeling for the puppies. This becomes a viable method of testing near the end of the first month. This should only be done by a vet.

After around 25 to 25 days, an ultrasound will be a possible choice. An ultrasound detects heartbeats, allowing you to determine how many little furballs your pet is producing. (Fun fact: puppies’ hearts beat two to three times quicker than their mothers’.) Hormone tests and X-rays are two other testing choices.

What Are The Signs of a Pregnant Doggy Pregnancy?

There are some indications you can look for. For example, you may notice a sudden rise in your pet’s appetite. After all, your cute buddy may be eating for anywhere from three to insert. (More on this later.)

Other pregnancy indicators in pups include the following:

  • Weight increase.
  • Enlarged nipples
  • Lack of energy

You may also notice certain behavioral changes. Some pets grow irritable. Others prefer plenty of cuddling and attention. You may also notice nesting behavior.

If you know or suspect your dog is pregnant, make an appointment with your vet right away. 

Caring For Your Dog During Pregnancy

Once you’ve confirmed that your dog is pregnant, your primary focus should be on keeping her healthy and safe, as well as ensuring that the growing puppies receive the necessary nutrition. Diet is vital in this case. If your furry friend is already consuming high-quality food and was at or near her target weight before getting pregnant, you may be able to keep her on the same diet until the end of her pregnancy. You may need to brace yourself against that cute face: giving a pregnant dog too much food can be harmful. Toward the end of her pregnancy, you can gradually increase your pet’s caloric intake. At this point, small, frequent meals are usually preferable to large ones.

Ask your vet for specific advice.

How Much Exercise Should My Dog Get While Pregnant?

Before your pet becomes pregnant, and especially during the first few weeks, continue her regular activity routine. This will vary depending on your canine pal’s age, breed, and size. However, as that belly begins to grow significantly, you’ll want to tone things down. Short, frequent walks are a better option than extended walks with waits between.

Taking A Pregnant Dog to the Vet

Always take a dog to the vet before trying to breed her. A complete exam is a must. Your dog will also need to have her vaccinations up to date. Your veterinarian will look for any problems that could interfere with the pregnancy or birth. If any problems arise, you may want to plan a C-section ahead of time.

Preparing for Puppy Arrivals

As the big day approaches, you can start looking for indicators that your pet is about to give birth to her puppies. One thing to look for is an increase in the size of the nipples. You may also notice fluid on the nipples. Some puppies’ babies may even move around.

you’ll need a sturdy whelping box. This is a safe, comfortable place for your dog to give birth. You can buy these, or you can make your own. One possibility is to utilize a kiddie pool. Ensure that Mama can get in and out while the pups are enclosed. This should be placed in a comfortable, calm, and non-drafty area. Remember to show your pet!

You’ll also need to pick up a few things. Here are some of the supplies you should get:

  • Newspaper Or Butcher Paper For Lining
  • Trash Bags
  • Bath Mats
  • Clean Towels
  • Thermometer, Bulb Syringe.
  • Heat Lamp
  • Sterile Scissors And Unwaxed Floss (For Cord Cutting)
  • Iodine

Make sure to ask your vet for more information.

Assisting With Your Dog’s Delivery

As the big day approaches, your dog’s appetite may diminish. She might also start building herself a den. (You may need to gently entice her to your whelping box). Other indicators include panting and a dip in rectal temperature.

You may notice contractions once labor begins. Puppies will be born within membranes. Typically, the mama will remove them, but if she does not, you will have to do so yourself. Don’t postpone this: puppies will quickly run out of air. After you have liberated the new arrival, rub it with a clean towel.

Typically, the mother chews through the cord while licking the puppies. Otherwise, you’ll have to clip it. Tie off the ends and sanitize with iodine.

Ask your vet for more information on what to expect.

What Are The Signs That Something Is Wrong?

Your pet may have puppies at a consistent rate, but there may be gaps in between. Give your pet water during this time. Your pet may require to relieve herself. She may deliver a puppy outside, so be prepared!

For the most part, labor should take around an hour for each puppy. This is why it’s critical to know how many are expecting. Keep track of the number of placentas.

Contact your Galloway, OH veterinarian if you notice any of the following: 

  • More than two hours pass between arrivals and not all puppies are out.
  • Your dog’s rectal temperature decreased more than 24 hours ago, but labor has not begun.
  • Your puppy appears to be in excruciating pain.
  • Any of the puppies have problems breathing.
  • No puppies have arrived within two hours after contractions started, especially if there is green discharge.
  • If your dog has intense contractions for over an hour and no puppies arrive.
  • Trembling, falling, or shivering.
  • If your dog provides dark green or red liquid before the first puppy.
  • Puppies do not breastfeed.
  • You have more puppies than placentas.

Remember to consult your  Galloway, OH veterinarian frequently when your pet is pregnant. We’re always happy to help!

Make an appointment At Our Galloway, OH Animal Hospital

Do you have any concerns about your pregnant dog? Are you looking into dog reproductive services? Please contact us, your Galloway, OH pet hospital, today!


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175 Galloway Rd.
Galloway, OH 43119
t: (614) 870-3900
f: (614) 870-6655

Also serving Westland and
surrounding areas.

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