How to Make My Pregnant Dog Comfortable

Pregnant dogs need exercise, rest and tender, loving care in order to stay comfortable. You will also need to provide top-quality nutrition in order to soothe any nausea your pregnant dog is experiencing. Some pregnant dogs enjoy receiving a gentle massage on the paws, back and belly. Any sources of stress should be avoided during pregnancy, particularly as delivery approaches.

Things You'll Need

  • Collar
  • Leash
  • Premium puppy food
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Instructions

    • 1

      Call your vet and schedule an examination at around 30 days following mating in order to confirm that your dog is pregnant and discuss her medical needs during pregnancy. If your dog has special needs, she may need to visit the vet sooner than 30 days after she has mated. A dog must be pain-free to be comfortable, so it's important to address any medical problems that could plague your dog during pregnancy.

    • 2

      Exercise your pregnant dog gently but regularly. Don't start a new exercise routine or compete in canine sports during your dog's pregnancy, but do continue with at-home exercise to which your dog is already accustomed. A slow walk or a game of fetch every day will keep your dog fit and happy during pregnancy.

    • 3

      Continue using a heartworm preventive if your dog is accustomed to taking one. All heartworm preventives currently on the market are safe for use in pregnancy. Most will also provide some protection against other parasites.

    • 4

      Add a premium quality puppy food to your dog's meals during the last five weeks of pregnancy. This will provide extra nutrition that is easily digestible, which helps both by supporting the healthy growth of your dog's puppies and by helping her to avoid nausea and diarrhea during pregnancy.

    • 5

      Explore alternative therapies to increase your dog's comfort level and decrease her stress level during pregnancy. You can perform a gentle massage or apply essential oils by yourself, though you should talk to your vet before using any essential oil product on a pregnant dog. If your dog seems especially uncomfortable during her pregnancy, consider hiring a professional canine massage therapist to come to your home and massage your dog.