My Lab

Question
My Lab gave birth to 12 healthy puppies 4 days ago. She ate all 12 placentas. She has never been a big eater and I am having trouble getting her to eat her dog food and I am concerned about the puppies nutrition as well as hers. What can I give her to help meet her nutritional needs? She has also had diarhea for the past 2 days. Is this normal and what can I do to help it?

Answer
Hi Bailey

The runs are easy enough to explain, that's from eating the placenta. Although very good for her, it does cause loose stool. Remember she's also ingesting everything the pups eliminate.

Make sure she has lots of fresh water.  Canned pumpkin in her food will help tighten her right up.

Canned dog mixed in with her kibble, will usually entice the most picky eater.  A good high quality puppy food is what she will be needing. You can also supplement with beef heart, liver, kidney, chicken, etc.  Either raw or cooked BUT remember in moderation as too much will give her the runs to.  Organ meats should only be given three times a week.

With such a large litter, I would also advise that you rotate the litter for feedings.  Splitting the litter in half or in third will allow the dam to clean and inspect each pup and give the pups a good feeding.  Start with 30 minute rotation and graduate to and hour.

Good luck