Homemade Canine Whelping Boxes

A whelping box acts as a den, or safe space for your dog to give birth to and rear her pups. Without a whelping box your dog will likely find an area of your home that is den-like, such as a closet or stairwell, to give birth. You don't need to be handy to make a whelping box. With a few things from around your home you can set up a whelping box for your dog's impending labor and delivery.

Things You'll Need

  • Large cardboard box
  • Box cutter
  • Old newspaper
  • Towels
  • Hot water bottle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a large, sturdy cardboard box. The box should have enough room for your dog to lay down, stretch out and turn around. Use the box cutter to cut the sides down. Cut the sides so your whelping box walls are low enough for your dog to get in and out, but high enough to keep the puppies contained.

    • 2

      Line the bottom of the whelping box with between six and eight layers of old newspaper. You can add layers of newspaper during the birthing process to keep the whelping box dry. When labor and delivery is over and you take your mama dog outside to go the bathroom, remove all the soiled newspaper and replace it with clean newspaper. Replace soiled paper regularly while your dog is using the whelping box to rear her pups. You may also use old towels or paper towels to make the box more comfortable.

    • 3

      Fill a hot water bottle with hot water. Seal it closed, wrap it in an old towel and put it inside the box to add warmth.

    • 4

      Place the box in an out-of-the way location. The area should be warm, free of drafts and away from constant human interaction. The goal is to find a private place in your home that your dog likes, feels safe in and has easy access to food and water.