From Bump To Birth: Nourishing Your Pregnant And Nursing Dogs

Malnutrition during pregnancy and nursing can lead to serious health issues for both the mother and her puppies, making it essential to address their unique dietary needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide on properly feeding pregnant and nursing dogs to support their health and the development of their puppies.

Feeding For Two (Or Maybe More) – Nutrition During Pregnancy

A dog’s pregnancy typically lasts around 58-63 days, during which her nutritional requirements increase significantly. As her body supports the growing puppies, it’s important to provide her with a nutrientdense, high-quality diet.

Increased calories and energy: By the end of pregnancy, a dog’s energy needs may increase by 25-50%, mainly due to the growing puppies. However, the calorie increase typically doesn’t begin until the second half of the pregnancy. A diet high in fat and protein is essential to meet these increased demands, ensuring both the mother’s and puppies’ health.

Protein: Protein is vital for tissue development in the puppies and for the mother’s overall health. A diet rich in highquality protein (like chicken, soya, egg, and fish) will support muscle mass and help the puppies develop properly.

Fat: Fat is a concentrated source of energy. Increasing fat content in the diet helps supply the additional calories needed during pregnancy. Healthy fats like fish oil containing omega-3 fatty acids, also contribute to the puppies’ brain development and the mother’s milk production.

Calcium and phosphorus: These minerals are essential for bone development in puppies and for maintaining the mother’s bone strength. However, too much calcium can interfere with other minerals, so it’s important to maintain the right balance which will typically meet these needs. Consult your vet to know the best calcium supplement for your pet.

DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid): DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oils, is crucial for the development of the puppies’ nervous systems, promoting cognitive function and healthy eye development.

Superfoods For Supermoms – Nutrition During Nursing

Once the puppies are born, the mother’s nutritional requirements increase even further by 25-30 %. Nursing mothers need up to 4-8 times the energy required by a non-pregnant/ non-lactating adult dog. Ensuring that the mother has enough food and hydration is crucial for milk production and the well-being of both the mother and her puppies.

Increased caloric intake: Nursing dogs require significantly more food to support milk production. They may need two to three times their regular caloric intake. Offer highly digestible, nutrient-dense foods to meet these energy demands.

Hydration: Milk production requires a lot of fluid, so providing fresh water at all times is essential. If your pet refuses to drink, you can try offering wet food or broth to help keep her hydrated.

Protein and fat: The mother’s diet should continue to be rich in protein and fat to support milk production and energy needs. Aim for a diet containing up to 30% protein and 15-20% fat. These levels will support the health of the mother and the growth of her puppies.

Healthy Moms, Healthy Pups Feed puppy food

High-quality puppy food is the best choice for pregnant and nursing dogs. Puppy formulas are specifically designed to meet the nutritional demands of growth and lactation. Look for puppy food brands that offer the necessary protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals. Avoid feeding large-breed puppy formulas, as they may not provide enough energy or calcium for pregnant and nursing dogs.

Multiple meals a day

Due to reduced stomach space from the growing puppies, pregnant dogs may not be able to consume large meals. Offer smaller, more frequent meals to ensure they are getting enough nutrients. After birth, the mother

may also experience a loss of appetite or be too focused on her puppies to eat regularly. Encouraging her to eat small amounts of food throughout the day can help maintain her strength.

Free-Choice feeding

For nursing dogs, free-choice feeding (providing unlimited access to food) is often the best strategy. This allows them to eat as needed, supporting their increased caloric and energy requirements. Be sure to provide fresh, clean water at all times.

Monitor her weight

During pregnancy, monitor your pet’s weight and body condition regularly. Pregnancy typically involves gradual weight gain, with rapid growth in the final weeks. After birth, your pet may lose some weight but should regain her strength with proper feeding. If she loses her appetite or becomes lethargic, consult your veterinarian.

Transitioning after weaning

By 3-4 weeks, puppies will begin to show interest in solid food. At around 6-7 weeks, they should be fully weaned. At this point, you can gradually return the mother to her pre-pregnancy diet. Puppies should continue to eat high-quality puppy food until they are ready to transition to an adult diet, typically around 6 months of age.

Can I feed my pregnant or nursing dog regular adult dog food?

Regular adult dog food is not sufficient for pregnant or nursing dogs. Adult dog food lacks the extra calories, protein, fat, and other nutrients needed for the development of puppies and milk production. Puppy food designed for all life stages is the best choice during pregnancy and lactation.

When to see a veterinarian?

It’s important to work closely with your veterinarian throughout your pet’s pregnancy and nursing. Regular check-ups can help ensure that the mother is maintaining a healthy weight, receiving the right nutrition, and producing enough milk. Your vet can also provide guidance on adjusting her diet, managing any complications, or prescribing any supplements (if needed).

Pregnancy and nursing are demanding times for your pet, and proper nutrition is key to ensuring the health of both the mother and her puppies. By providing a high-quality, nutrient-dense diet that supports the increased caloric, protein, and fat requirements, you can help your dog navigate these stages successfully. Always consult your veterinarian to create a feeding plan tailored to your dog’s specific needs and monitor her condition closely throughout the pregnancy and nursing periods. With the right care and nutrition, both the mother and her puppies can thrive.

(Dr. Akanksha Diwakar – Marketing Head, Allana Consumer Products Ltd. (ACPL) – Pet Food Division)