Dogs – Things To Know Before Breeding

Dogs during Labor

Breeding dogs is an exciting experience. From the time a proper
mate is found to the point that the puppies are born, it is
crucial to take careful steps to make this successful.

Professional breeders do not breed frequently and will only do
so when a pair is found to be healthy that will ensure the birth
of healthy offspring.

The ideal breeder should have the pair of dogs tested for every
possible disease as well as have all the information regarding
the pair’s ancestors and health records on file. Should a
breeder find no problem in the history of the pair, then the
process can begin.

Dogs normally come into heat twice a year which is every six
months. Larger dogs can come into heat every eight or ten months
which usually lasts about three weeks. Vaginal bleeding is a
sure sign that the dog is in heat as well as swelling in the
vulva. A dog’s pregnancy or gestation period lasts between 60 to
67 days. Most dogs give birth after 63 days.

The only way to determine the stage of the dog’s pregnancy is by
keeping track of time from the day of the breeding. Keeping a
record of this on file is advisable for reference purposes.

Exactly three weeks after breeding, the mother must be examined
to confirm the pregnancy.

The dog must be given a formulated and premium brand of dog food
for the duration of the pregnancy and throughout the nursing
period preferably with a strong nutritional foundation.

During pregnancy, the mother’s food consumption will almost
double compared to the pre-pregnancy level so increased feeding
must be given to ensure that there is enough for both the mother
and the puppies.

Behavioral changes are to be expected during this time. The dog
will demand far more affection or may experience a few days of
vomiting.

Later on, the expectant mother will search for a secure place to
deliver the puppies. Ensure that a proper place is ready when
the time comes. An ideal place for an expecting mother is a box.
Depending on the size of the dog, it must be spacious enough for
the dog to move around and must have layers of newspaper inside
it that will absorb birthing fluids. This should also have low
sides for the mother to look outside and for the breeder to
easily check if assistance is needed to make it easy to remove
soiled papers without interrupting the mother and the newborn
puppies.

Follow these steps and you should be able to count on a happy
birthing process!