Mommy Paws: Ensuring a Healthy Pregnancy for Your Dog

The gestational period in dogs is about 63 days. Optimal nutrition is especially crucial in the third trimester to ensure optimal fetal growth and development. Signs that are recognized initially are weight gain, a slightly enlarged abdomen, change in the color of her nipples, exhibit mood swings, restlessness, or a decrease in appetite. If you observed the above changes it is essential to confirm the pregnancy through a vet examination . 

• After the vet confirmation it is essential for planning proper care and nutrition. During the first two trimesters of pregnancy, a pregnant bitch’s energy needs are like her adult maintenance requirements. In the last 3 to 4 weeks of gestation, a bitch’s requirements for energy and other nutrients increase.
• Developing puppies grow rapidly during last 3-4 weeks of pregnancy. So the energy requirements of the bitch increase from 25% to 50%, depending on litter size during last weeks of pregnancy.
• Energy needs for the pregnant dogs :

• Dietary DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), omega -3 & 6 fatty acids helps to ensure optimal neural and vision development in puppies. In addition to these vitamins are also important for healthy development of puppies.
• Feeding a high-quality, nutritionally complete and balanced  formula will supply all the necessary nutrients.
• Provide clean and fresh water at all the times because Proper hydration is very essential during  pregnancy.
• Feeding several meals daily or free choice during the last 3 to 4 weeks of gestation will help ensure a bitch is receiving enough nutrition despite increasingly limited abdominal space for food and digestion.

Prepare a comfortable bedding that offers privacy and warmth. Moderate exercise is helpful during pregnancy. Avoid activities like jumping or sudden bursts of energy it  might strain the pregnant dog's body.