.jpeg)
.jpeg)
Read time: 7 mins
08 Aug 2023
Are you a dog owner with an expecting pup? Congratulations! Now that you know your dog is pregnant, it’s important to understand what kind of food she needs now more than ever.
In this article, we’ll give you all the information you need to make sure your pregnant pooch gets the best nutrition possible. From signs of pregnancy to optimal feeding times and recommended meals, everything is right here for you.
We’ll also tell you why Butternut Box is the perfect choice for pregnant dogs - with its high-quality ingredients, tailored nutrition and convenient subscription service - so be sure to read on and build your box today!
Pregnancy in dogs can be an exciting, yet sometimes overwhelming, process. As a dog owner, it’s important to understand the signs of pregnancy so you can provide your pup with the best care and nutrition possible. Here are some of the physical and behavioural changes to look out for if you suspect that your pup may be pregnant.
Pregnant dogs may exhibit a range of changes in their behaviour, such as increased appetite, lethargy, restlessness, or even depression. If you’re noticing any changes in your pup’s behaviour that seem unusual for them, it could be a sign that they’re expecting.
Weight gain is another common sign of pregnancy in dogs. Monitor your pup’s weight regularly throughout the gestation period to make sure they’re getting enough food and nutrients.
Keeping an eye on your dog’s nipples is also important during this time. If they become enlarged or redder than usual, this could be a sign that she is pregnant. The nipples will continue to enlarge as the puppies develop over time.
Another indication of pregnancy is visible swelling around your dog's stomach area. If you notice any signs of swelling here, then it could indicate that she is indeed expecting. This will become more pronounced near the end of her pregnancy as well.
Finally, one last thing to watch out for is signs of discharge from the vulva - this can indicate that she is close to giving birth. It’s important to pay attention to these signs and take appropriate action if necessary (such as seeking medical attention if needed). By being aware of these physical and behavioural changes during pregnancy, you can ensure that your pup gets all the proper care and nutrition they need during this special time.
A female dog can get pregnant from the first heat cycle after they reach sexual maturity, which is usually between six and twelve months of age. During this time, female dogs will experience an estrus or “heat” cycle every six to twelve months. This cycle lasts for about three weeks and is divided into four stages: proestrus, estrus, diestrus 1, and diestrus 2. The most important stage for successful breeding is estrus, as this is when the female ovulates and becomes fertile. It typically occurs around day nine of the cycle.
During the fertile period (which typically lasts up to 24 hours), mating must take place in order for fertilisation to be successful. Female dogs may signal that they are ready to mate by being more affectionate and attentive than usual towards male dogs, as well as by presenting their backsides while walking away from them or standing still with her hind legs spread apart. It’s important that owners pay close attention to these behaviours so that they make sure that their pup gets bred during this brief window of opportunity.
The timing of breeding does not end once a female dog has been mated; it’s also important to monitor her health throughout her pregnancy in order to ensure a safe delivery and healthy puppies. By understanding when a dog can get pregnant, owners can better prepare themselves for the journey ahead.
Pregnancy in female dogs typically lasts for an average of 63 days, but can range anywhere from 58 to 68 days depending on the breed. During this time, it is important that owners pay close attention to their pup’s health and well-being, as even small changes can have a big impact on the health and development of the puppies.
Veterinarians typically recommend that pregnant dogs receive ultrasound examinations after day 45 of pregnancy, which helps to ensure that all puppies are growing properly in the mother’s womb. This also allows veterinarians to count how many puppies there are expected to be in the litter and check for any abnormalities or deformities.
At around two weeks before delivery, it is common for female dogs to start showing signs of labour such as panting, restlessness, and nesting behaviour. They may also experience a decrease in appetite due to stress or anxiety associated with labour. As labour approaches, owners should make sure their dog is comfortable by providing them with a warm bed and plenty of food and water nearby. Additionally, they should contact their veterinarian if they have any concerns or notice any abnormal behaviour during this time.
By understanding the timing of a female dog’s pregnancy cycle and recognising when they are about to give birth, owners can ensure that their pup receives proper care throughout this special time. With quality nutrition from Butternut Box tailored specifically for pregnant dogs combined with regular veterinary examinations throughout pregnancy, puppy parents can set their furry friend up for success.
Pregnant pups rely on the nutrition they receive from their meals to support their developing bodies. Giving them the right kind of food is essential for ensuring they get all the nutrients they need while carrying puppies. Commercial dog foods designed specifically for pregnant dogs are available, but it's best to check with a veterinarian first to make sure you're making an informed decision. Additionally, homemade meals can be tailored to meet your pup's individual needs based on breed and health condition—ideally using organic ingredients where possible.
When in her third trimester, your pregnant pooch may require up to three times the amount of food as usual due to her expanding belly. Keep an eye on her diet during this time and adjust as needed so she has enough energy and essential nutrients. Omega-3 fatty acids are especially beneficial since these promote healthy neural development in puppies. Protein sources, such as egg whites or chicken, should also be included in meals.
When it comes to nutritional needs of pregnant dogs, Butternut Box is the ideal solution. Developed with expert advice from veterinarians and nutritionists, each meal is designed to provide the highest quality of nutrition for mum and her puppies. We use only human-grade ingredients that are free from fillers, artificial flavours and preservatives, making them easy to digest even for those pups with sensitive stomachs.
Convenience is another great feature of Butternut Box; our subscription service makes sure that you never run out of food when you need it most. Our fresh meals are delivered directly to your doorstep so that your pup can have access to the optimal diet needed during this special time in their life. What’s more - we offer a range of nutritional supplements, such as gut health and calming, which can help support the growth of puppies in utero, as well as keeping mum healthy throughout her pregnancy.
Butternut Box provides all these benefits without compromising on quality or convenience, making us an obvious choice for expectant mothers who want to give their pup the best care possible during pregnancy.
