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Caring For A Pregnant Bitch

Most of our bitches (female dogs) will saunter through even their first pregnancy without too much difficulty. We, their humans, are far more likely to be experiencing stress than they. During the first two trimesters of their pregnancy only their contact with other dogs need change. Though we do need to make sure the diet we have been feeding them is correct for their age and size.

Diet throughout the pregnancy, and during lactation (milk production) after, is very important. During those first two trimesters they should continue with the appropriate diet for their age and size. It is only in the final trimester they should start receiving larger meals, 20 to 30 percent larger. Fat content in these larger meals should be around 10 to 20 percent, but may need to be increased to 20 to 30 percent during lactation if she starts losing body mass. Only reduce her meal size back to normal after the puppies have been weaned.

With planned pregnancies, your bitch should undergo a breeding soundness examination before mating. This will ensure she has no genetic problems that might be passed on and is physically suited to carry a litter to term. Some breeds, such as the bulldog or boxer, have small hips, making birthing difficult for them. Hip dysplasia is common in many larger breeds, such as German shepherds, so needs to be checked for. Our girls are individuals though, so an examination specific to them is what is most important.

Unplanned pregnancies shouldn't really occur, as we should keep our girls away from males while they are in estrus (heat), but accidents can happen. With an unplanned pregnancy there is the choice of termination or allowing the pregnancy to proceed. In some medical circumstances, such as if she develops brucellosis, an infection of Brucella canis bacteria, abortion is the option that should be taken. If a medical examination shows no problems, the choice is with you, based on your ethical, lifestyle and financial considerations.

Brucellosis is common in kennels, so isolation from other dogs during pregnancy is best, to avoid this and other diseases that might cause miscarriages or stillbirths. Off leash contact with other dogs at the dog park will need to be foregone until after the litter is born. Play dates with friends' dogs might be a good alternative, once they have been checked by a veterinarian and given a clean bill of health. More loving attention from you will also be very good.

Many people believe bitches should be given privacy when it comes time for the birth. Personally, I believe the supportive presense of a loved one or two, but no more, is the better option. She will let you know if she wants to be alone.

Learn more about this author, Perry McCarney.
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