How to Take Care of a Pregnant Female Dog: A Complete Guide

Pregnancy dog care is a rewarding task. Proper nutrition, living conditions, and medical care can enable you to keep her healthy and ensure safe delivery. This handbook will guide you through all phases of pregnancy, from onset symptoms to postnatal care, so you are confident and equipped.

Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs

Early Signs (First 3–4 Weeks)

Gradual weight gain
Appetite increase or alteration in feeding habits
More clingy or aloof behavior
Nipples slightly enlarged

Later Signs (After 4 Weeks)

Belly enlargement is evident
Clear or pink discharge from the vagina
Resting more often
Increased comfort needs

Note: The only definitive confirmation of pregnancy is a vet visit.

In early pregnancy, vitamin drops can help support a dog’s immune system, boost energy, and ensure proper fetal development when her body’s nutritional demands start to increase. They can fill small dietary gaps, promote healthy organ and bone formation in the puppies, and keep the mother strong — but should always be given under veterinary guidance to avoid over-supplementation.

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Veterinary Care

Initial Checkup: Get to the vet as soon as you think the cat is pregnant.
Ultrasound/X-ray: Generally performed between day 25–45 to ensure pregnancy and predict litter size.
Vaccinations: Ideally, be current before mating. Avoid live vaccines in pregnancy unless directed by the vet.
Deworming & Flea Control: Use only those products that are safe during pregnancy for the dog, as advised by the vet.

Nutrition for a Pregnant Dog

First 4 Weeks

Maintain her on an adult dog food of good quality.
Feed regular portions but make sure the protein and fat are balanced.

Weeks 5–6

Transition to high-quality puppy chow for added nutrients.
More frequent meals to 3 smaller meals daily.

Weeks 7–9

Puppy food continues.
Smaller, more frequent meals to prevent stomach upset.
Fresh water constantly available.

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Foods to Avoid:

Chocolate, grapes, raisins
Onions, garlic
Raw meat/fish (unless okayed)
High-fat junk foods

Exercise

Light walking and gentle playing is good.
Jumping, rough play, and excessive running should be avoided.
Short sessions 2-3 times daily.
Interrupt exercise if she becomes tired or uncomfortable.

Comfort and Environment

Offer a quiet, draft-free resting place.
Keep the bedding soft, clean, and washable.
Restrict stressful changes in routine.
Isolate other pets if they are stressful.

Preparing for Whelping (Birth)

Signs of Labor

Restlessness, nesting behavior
Reduction in body temperature (below 100°F/37.8°C in the 24 hours before labor)
Loss of appetite
Panting or shivering

Whelping Box Setup

Low sides for easy movement
Large enough to stretch and turn
Lined with washable towels or pads

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Supplies Needed:

Clean towels
Disposable gloves
Low-setting heating pad
Vet’s emergency number
Thread and scissors (only if guided for emergencies)

Postpartum Care

Have fresh water and food within reach.
Keep the puppies warm (optimal temp: 85–90°F first week).
Watch for nursing—puppies must nurse every 2 hours initially.
Maintain a clean, dry environment.
Observe for infection signs (fever, smelly discharge, loss of appetite).

Common Issues to Watch For

Abnormal labor (more than 2 hours between puppies)
Excessive bleeding
Weakness or collapse
Failure of puppies to breathe or nurse

If any of these, call a vet urgently.

Commonly Used & Vet-Approved Categories

(Exact drug name, dose, and duration must be prescribed by a vet.)

1. Dewormers

Some formulations of fenbendazole and pyrantel pamoate are often considered safe.
Deworming helps prevent roundworms and hookworms from passing to puppies.

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2. Flea & Tick Control

Certain fipronil or selamectin-based products may be approved by vets.
Avoid strong chemical spot-ons unless your vet confirms safety.

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3. Antibiotics

Only specific antibiotics like amoxicillin or cephalexin may be used safely.
Never use tetracyclines or fluoroquinolones — they can harm fetal development.

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4. Supplements

Calcium only if recommended — giving it too early or too much can cause birth complications.

Prenatal dog vitamins if diet is insufficient.

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Medicines to Avoid During Pregnancy

Hormonal drugs (like estrogen or progesterone supplements not prescribed for reproductive reasons)

NSAIDs (like ibuprofen, carprofen) unless absolutely necessary under vet supervision

Aspirin (can cause bleeding and fetal harm)

Certain wormers (like albendazole) unless prescribed in specific cases

Summary

Caring for a pregnant dog is a combination of love, patience, and preparation. By providing her with proper nutrition, gentle exercise, a safe place, and regular veterinary care, you prepare her for an easy pregnancy and healthy puppies.

Final Tip: Always keep your vet’s number handy and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional advice. Your attentiveness could make all the difference in the health and safety of your dog and her litter.

✅ Friendly Reminder: Pregnancy in dogs is a special time. With your care and support, you’re giving her and her puppies the best possible start in life.