Dogs and puppies

Question
My Pitt/Lab mix dog just had her first litter of puppies at one and a half years of age. She had 9 puppies all very healthy, but she is extremely thin in the hind quarters now. She has a normal appetite and is still playful. She wasn't this thin before pregnancy, is that normal?

Answer
Hi Cherita,

It's very common for a dam to lose all her puppy weight and more after whelping.  

Her caloric requirements increase by 25 - 30% and by the time the pups are four weeks old, it doubles again.  So make sure your female is getting enough to eat, if she loses too much weight, she will fail to produce enough milk for her pups.

Feed a good kibble mixed with puppy food.  She should be eating three full rations spaced throughout the day.  Also remember to supplement with a balanced vitamin/mineral supplement.