Caring For A Pregnant Dog

Caring for a pregnant dog is a significant responsibility that requires careful planning and consistent monitoring. Whether you’re supporting a newly expectant mother or assisting a seasoned pet in your home, understanding how to care for a pregnant dog helps ensure the health and comfort of both mother and puppies. This period demands special attention to nutrition, exercise, and veterinarian visits to address any unexpected challenges. Studies have shown that well-managed pregnancies often lead to healthier litters and fewer complications during delivery. By focusing on proper feeding habits, balanced rest, and emotional support, you can provide the foundation your dog needs for a smooth gestation. It’s also vital to watch for changes in appetite, behavior, or energy levels, as these can be early signals that professional assistance is needed. With the right approach, you’ll create an environment where mother and puppies thrive from day one. This journey is immensely rewarding.

Puppies are undeniably one of the cutest things on the planet. Dogs can make a lot of them, as well. A single pair of pooches can have 370,092 puppies in just 7 years! Most of the time, canine pregnancies go pretty smoothly. Of course, just like any other expecting mama, your pooch will need some extra TLC during this special time. Read on as a local Longwood, FL vet offers some insight into caring for a pregnant dog.

Basics About Dog Pregnancy

Gestation in dogs normally takes about two months, or 62-64 days. However, that isn’t a hard and fast rule. Also, keep in mind that the date of conception may not be the same as the breeding date. Breed and litter size can also factor in. Litter sizes typically range from a minimum of 3 puppies, with the normal maximum being about 15. However, there have been exceptions at both ends of the spectrum.

During that first month, fertilized eggs attach themselves to the lining of the uterine horn. From there, they double in size about every week or so. During the second month, the little beans start to appear more like puppies.

How Will I Know If My Dog Is Pregnant?

By the time a dog is close to delivery, the pregnancy may be quite obvious to the naked eye. However, it can be tricky to tell in the early stages. You can’t pick up a test from a pharmacy, so your best bet is to take your pooch to the veterinary clinic for tests.

The simplest is palpation, which is basically manually feeling for the puppies. This becomes a viable way to test around the end of the first month. This should only be done by a veterinarian.

After about 25 to 25 days, an ultrasound will become a viable option. An ultrasound will detect heartbeats, so you’ll be able to find out how many tiny furballs your pet is growing. (Fun fact: puppy heartbeats are two to three times faster than the mother’s.) Other options for tests include hormone tests and X-rays.

What Are The Signs Of Pregnancy In Dogs?

You should always seek out professional care if you know or suspect that your dog is pregnant. However, there are also a few clues you can watch for. For instance, you may notice that your furry friend has a sudden increase in appetite. After all, your cute pet may be eating for, well, anywhere from three to insert. (More on that later.)

Other signs of pregnancy in pups include the following:

• Weight gain
• Nipple growth
• Lack of energy

You may also notice some behavioral changes. Some dogs get a bit grouchy. Others go the other way, and want lots of cuddles and affection. You might also notice what is called nesting behavior.

Caring For Your Expectant Mama

Once you’ve confirmed that your pooch is pregnant, your focus will need to turn to keeping her healthy and safe, and making sure that the growing puppies are getting the nourishment they need. Diet is crucial here. If your pet is already eating a high-quality food, and was at or near her ideal weight before becoming pregnant, you may be able to keep her on the same menu until the last few weeks of her pregnancy. You may need to steel yourself a bit here: giving a pregnant dog too much food could actually be dangerous. Towards the end of her pregnancy, you can slowly increase your pet’s caloric intake. At this point, small, frequent meals are usually better than larger ones.

Ask your Longwood, FL vet for more tips on caring for a pregnant dog.

How Much Exercise Should My Pregnant Dog Get?

Before your pet gets pregnant, and during those first few weeks, she should stay on her regular exercise regime. This will depend on your pet’s age, breed, and size. However, once that belly begins to get noticeably large, you’ll want to tone things down. Short frequent walks are a better option than long ones with waits between

Taking A Pregnant Dog To The Vet?

Always take a dog to the vet before any attempts to breed her. A full exam is a must. Your pooch will also need to be current on her vaccinations. Your vet will check for any issues that may affect or interfere with the pregnancy or delivery. You’ll also need to bring your pet in during her pregnancy. If any issues are found, you may want to schedule a C-section in advance.

Contact us for help with the following:

• Progesterone Tests For Dogs In Longwood Fl
• Reproductive Vets Near Me In Longwood Fl
• Ovulation Tests For Dogs In Longwood Fl
• Dog Artificial Insemination In Longwood Fl

Preparing for Puppies

As the big day approaches, you can start to check for some telltale signs that your pet is about to deliver her puppies. One thing to watch for is an enlargement of the nipples. You may also notice fluid on the nipples. With some pups, you may even see or feel the babies moving around.

At this point, you’ll need a good whelping box. This is a safe, comfy environment for your pooch to give birth. You can buy these, but you can also make something. One option is to use a kiddie pool. Make sure that mama can get in and out, while the pups are contained. This should be placed in a comfy, quiet spat that isn’t drafty.

Remember to show your pet the box!

Here are some of the supplies you’d want to get:

• Newspaper or butcher paper for lining.
• Garbage Bags
• Bath Mats
• Clean Towels
• Thermometer
• Bulb Syringe
• Heat Lamp
• Sterile Scissors And Unwaxed Floss (For Cord Cutting)
• Iodine

Be sure to ask your vet for more information.

Helping Your Dog Deliver

As the big day approaches, your pooch may lose her appetite. She may also start making herself a den. (You may need to gently coax her towards your whelping box). Other signs include panting and a drop in rectal temperature.

Once labor starts, you may see the contractions. The puppies will be born inside membranes. Usually, the momma will remove this, but if she doesn’t, you’ll need to do it yourself. Don’t wait on this: puppies will quickly run out of air. Once you’ve freed the puppy, rub it with a clean towel.

Generally, the mother will chew through the cord as she licks the puppies. If not, you’ll need to cut it. Tie off the ends and use iodine to sanitize.

Ask your vet for more detailed information on what to expect.

What Are The Signs That Something Is Wrong?

Your pet may have her puppies at a steady pace, but there may also be pauses between. Give your pet water during this time. Your pet may need to relieve herself. She may deliver a puppy outside, so be prepared!

For the most part, labor should last about an hour for each puppy. This is why it’s important to find out how many are expected. Also, keep track of the number of placentas.

Contact your vet if:

• More than two hours pass between arrivals and not all of the puppies are out.
• Your dog’s rectal temperature dropped over 24 hours ago, but labor isn’t starting.
• Your dog appears to be in extreme pain
• Any of the puppies is having trouble breathing
• No puppies have arrived within two hours after contractions started, especially if you see green discharge
• If your dog has strong contractions for over an hour but no puppies
• Trembling, collapsing, or shivering
• If your dog delivers dark green or bloody liquid before the first puppy
• Puppies don’t nurse
• You have more puppies than placentas

Remember to talk to your vet regularly during the course of your pet’s pregnancy. We’re always happy to help! We are happy to offer advice on caring for your pregnant dog, her puppies, and postnatal care in Longwood, FL.

Caring for a Pregnant Dog: Delivery & Postpartum Tips (2025)

What supplies do I need in my emergency kit for delivery?

A well-stocked whelping kit usually includes newspapers or disposable pads for lining, garbage bags, towels, a thermometer, and a bulb syringe. Bath mats can help maintain grip and cleanliness. Sterile scissors and unwaxed floss are needed for cord care, while iodine helps disinfect. A heat lamp or heating pad is recommended to keep newborn puppies warm. Keeping extra towels on hand is wise, and a bowl of fresh water for the mother ensures hydration. Label all items clearly and store them in a clean, organized container for immediate, efficient access.

Should I provide calcium supplements during pregnancy?

Providing calcium supplements during pregnancy is usually unnecessary and can sometimes cause complications by disrupting the mother’s hormone balance. A well-balanced, high-quality commercial diet typically meets nutritional needs. Excessive calcium can lead to eclampsia once nursing begins. When there’s concern about a possible deficiency, it’s best to seek professional guidance. Some veterinarians may recommend targeted supplementation if specific risk factors exist. Oversupplementation can harm both mother and pups, so any addition to the diet should be carefully monitored. Balanced nutrition and regular checkups usually suffice for a healthy pregnancy. Routine visits help ensure safe adjustments.

What are signs of post-birth complications in the mother dog?

Signs of trouble after delivery can include ongoing heavy bleeding, extreme lethargy, fever, foul-smelling discharge, prolonged lack of appetite, or disinterest in nursing. Greenish or bloody discharge well after birth can also signal a problem, especially if puppies remain inside. Additional red flags include trembling, collapsing, or shivering, as well as abnormal pain or signs of infection around the mammary glands. If the mother dog seems distressed, weak, or neglects her puppies, prompt veterinary care is advised. Monitoring temperature, milk production, and nursing behavior helps detect complications. Excessive panting or a sudden spike in body temperature may also signify underlying issues.

How do I safely break the umbilical cord if the mother doesn’t?

First, gently remove the membrane covering the puppy to allow normal breathing. If the cord remains attached, tie unwaxed dental floss about an inch from the pup’s abdomen to prevent bleeding. Use sterile scissors to cut the cord between the tie and the placenta, making sure not to pull on the puppy. Once cut, disinfect the end with iodine to reduce infection risk. Rub the puppy with a clean towel to stimulate breathing. Proper cord management helps ensure healthy circulation and fewer complications. Confirm that the puppy is nursing and the mother is comfortable before monitoring them both closely.

How do I monitor the health of newborn puppies?

Monitoring newborn puppies involves daily weight checks, confirming that each pup is steadily gaining weight and feeding well. Observing how they nurse and confirming they receive adequate milk intake are recommended. Watch for signs such as trouble breathing, lethargy, discoloration of the gums, and unusual crying. Ensuring the environment remains warm and draft-free is equally beneficial for developing immune systems. Maintaining a clean whelping area, changing bedding frequently, and providing gentle handling further support robust immune function. Regular checks of body temperature and vital signs help catch any early signs of distress. Consulting a veterinarian for periodic exams and vaccinations fosters the puppies’ healthy growth.

Make An Appointment At Our Longwood, FL Pet Hospital

Do you have questions or concerns about your pregnant dog? Are you interested in reproductive services for dogs? Contact us, your Longwood, FL veterinary clinic, today!