What to feed a pregnant dog?
Proper nutrition during pregnancy is important for both the mother's health and the health of her future offspring. A pregnant dog must receive significantly more nutrients, minerals, and vitamins than usual to provide both herself and the puppies growing in her womb. This will protect the mother from malnutrition and her offspring from potential developmental abnormalities. Therefore, during pregnancy, not only the quality of the mother's diet changes, but also the amount and frequency of feeding.
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Feeding features depending on the pregnancy period
Before mating, it's recommended to weigh the dog to monitor her weight throughout pregnancy. Weight gain during pregnancy should not exceed 25-30% of normal, as obesity can lead to a difficult birth or even a cesarean section. Optimal nutritional requirements for a pregnant dog are calculated based on body weight, breed, age, and activity level.
During the first month of pregnancy, a bitch's energy expenditure increases slightly, so she can be fed as usual. Sometimes during this period, a dog's appetite decreases, sometimes, on the contrary, it increases, and digestive upset may be observed. If such symptoms are severe and persistent, it is necessary to take the animal to a veterinarian.
Weight gain begins in the second month of pregnancy: the bitch gains up to 10% of her normal weight per week. To meet her body's needs, the energy value of her food should be increased by 20%, by 30% by the beginning of the third month, and by almost 50% by the end of pregnancy.
A pregnant dog should be fed more frequently, but in smaller portions: the expanding uterus puts pressure on the stomach, making it no longer able to accommodate the same volumes of food. As her belly grows, it's recommended to feed the dog first two, then three, and then four times a day, especially if she's expecting a large litter. To prevent the portions from becoming too large, experts recommend using high-calorie diets.
One or two days before labor, the bitch's appetite may decrease, and right before labor, she may refuse to eat at all. Unless there are any alarming symptoms (bleeding, vomiting, severe dyspepsia), this is not cause for concern. Once labor begins, the animal should not be fed.
If a pregnant dog expends a lot of energy (for example, if she is free-ranging and is very active by nature), or if she has any serious chronic illnesses, it is recommended to consult a specialist regarding the feeding schedule, amount, and quality of food.
The needs of a pregnant dog's body
During pregnancy, a dog's body requires increased amounts of protein, as it serves as the building block for all types of cells. Calcium, vitamins, and microelements are also required in much higher amounts than usual.
The most essential vitamins during pregnancy:
- A (retinol), D (calciferol). They are responsible for the proper intrauterine development of offspring - the formation of bones, skin, fur, and the retina.
- C (ascorbic acid). It participates in the synthesis of collagen, therefore it is necessary for strengthening muscle and joint tissue.
- Group B. Ensures homeostasis processes (maintaining the body's functions in a balanced state) and normal functioning of the central and peripheral nervous system.
Of the microelements, the most necessary are:
- Iron. It plays a role in hematopoiesis. A deficiency of this element can cause anemia.
- Calcium. Promotes strong bones. A calcium deficiency during birth can lead to eclampsia, a life-threatening complication. Calcium deficiency in mothers is a cause of intrauterine pathologies in puppies.
- Phosphorus. Necessary to stabilize the phosphorus-calcium balance in the body.
Various nutritional supplements should be used in reasonable doses to avoid harm. For example, too much calcium in a mother's diet can lead to the development of pathologies in the puppies in the womb. It's best to have your pet's daily diet developed by a specialist.
From the first days of pregnancy, a dog should have unlimited access to water. Fluid is needed both to maintain hydration and to produce amniotic fluid, which acts as a buffer to protect the puppies in the womb.
Types of diets
It's not recommended to change your dog's diet during pregnancy. It's best to feed her the same food she's used to: prepared foods (kibbles, canned food) or homemade. However, the food should be high-quality and contain all the nutrients necessary for pregnancy.
If your dog eats prepared food, you should give preference to holistic or super premiumThey do not contain artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives that are harmful to animals. Suitable for pregnant women and nursing Special dry and wet diets are available for dogs. They are high in calories, making it important to use small portions when needed. These kibble and canned foods contain the necessary proportions of easily digestible proteins, vitamins, minerals, and components that promote good digestion (e.g., prebiotics, fish oil, fiber).
According to veterinary nutritionists, the best dry foods for pregnant dogs are:
- Purina Pro Plan,
- Dog Chow Puppy Small Breed,
- Royal Canin Giant Starter,
- Orijen 6 Fresh Fish Dog,
- Orijen Puppies,
- Brit Care Grain Free Puppy Salmon and Potato.
Among wet foods, the brands N&D OCEAN COD & PUMPKIN, Royal Canin Starter Mousse, and Dog Chow Puppy received high marks from experts.
If your dog is accustomed to home-cooked food, her diet during pregnancy should consist of at least half meat products, with the remainder consisting of fish, cottage cheese, fermented milk products, cereals, vegetables, and eggs (both cooked whites and yolks in any form). Vitamin and mineral supplements, over-the-counter medications, or natural sources (such as brewer's yeast, fish oil, carrots, and vegetable oil) should be added to her natural diet.
If your dog shows signs of toxicosis (which can happen in dogs too), it's best to feed it mostly liquid food—nutritious vegetable and grain soups with ground meat or broths. The food should be easily digestible; fermented milk products are a good choice for nausea.
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