If your dog is expecting a litter of puppies, you may feel excited and anxious. You’re thrilled that your best friend is bringing new life into the world while nervous about providing the right level of animal care for her. The more you know about dog pregnancy, the better off you and your furry family member will be. To help you, here are some frequently asked questions about dog pregnancies. 

What You Should Know About Dog Pregnancies

How do you know if your dog is pregnant?

Early symptoms of pregnancy in dogs include weight gain, increased appetite, prominent nipples, and a distended abdomen. If your dog displays these symptoms, bring her to a veterinarian for diagnostic tests. An ultrasound can determine whether your dog is pregnant and estimate how many puppies she’ll have.

How long are dogs pregnant?

Dogs are only pregnant for about two months. A veterinarian can perform additional tests to more accurately determine when your dog will go into labor.

How do you care for a pregnant dog?

When your dog is expecting puppies, the level of animal care you must provide increases. At home, feed your dog a nutritious diet. If she’s already eating quality dog food, you don’t have to change her diet in the beginning. However, some specialists believe that pregnant dogs should eat food fortified with EPA and DHA fatty acids. During the last half of your dog’s pregnancy, increase her portion sizes by 30–50%. She also needs to see a veterinarian regularly, who will check on the health of the puppies and examine your dog for signs of illness or discomfort.

What should you do when your dog is ready to deliver?

The good news is that dogs typically don’t need much assistance when giving birth. When they’re ready to deliver, dogs will look for a warm, quiet place to give birth. You can make your dog more comfortable by giving her old blankets or towels to lie on. Stay by your dog’s side throughout the delivery, and inform your veterinarian when she’s about to give birth.

When the puppies come out, make sure your dog removes the placental membrane covering each one to allow them to breathe. If she doesn’t, you should. If your dog is trembling, shivering, or collapsing, or more than two hours pass in between the delivery of each puppy, take her to the veterinarian. 

If you’re looking for a reliable veterinarian for your pregnant dog, turn to Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital. The veterinary hospital has provided quality animal care on Oahu since 1972, offering everything from routine checkups to pet surgery and reproductive assistance. They’re open seven days a week to accommodate busy schedules. For more information about their animal care services, visit their website. Call (808) 671-7387 to make an appointment today.