Changes in Diet for a Pregnant Dog

A canine pregnancy lasts approximately 62 days, according to the "Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians." This is a delicate time where the nutritional needs of your pregnant dog are particularly important. A poor diet can lead to severe problems, such as pregnancy toxemia, especially as the pregnancy progresses.

  1. Significance

    • Pregnant dogs have different nutritional requirements than their non-pregnant counterparts. Puppies don't grow a whole lot during the first three weeks of pregnancy, so there is no need to change your dog's diet immediately. This gives you time to prepare for the changes you will need to make to accommodate the puppies growing inside of your dog, as stated by the "Clinical Veterinary Advisor."

    Time Frame

    • Change your pregnant dog's diet around the fourth or fifth week of pregnancy. During this time, puppies in-utero start growing at a rapid pace. A dog's weight increases to 25 to 35 percent of its normal body weight, according to "Shelter Medicine for Veterinarians and Staff." The mother-to-be needs more energy than usual. A dog's appetite decreases drastically 24 to 48 hours before giving birth. Keep food available at that time in case your dog wishes to eat, but do not force her.

    Changes

    • Continue feeding your dog her normal amount and type of food. Start increasing her food intake around the fourth or fifth week of pregnancy. Her appetite will naturally increase. Increase the amount of food given by 25 to 35 percent. For example, if you normally feed your dog two cups of food a day, increase the amount until your dog is eating 2.5 to 2.7 cups of food a day. Around this time, gradually begin mixing in a food with a higher caloric content, such as a growth or nursing and lactation formulation. Puppy food is also high in calories and may help offset some of the symptoms surrounding pregnancy, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach. Puppy food is more easily digested by canine stomachs and is rich in calories and the essential nutrients your dog and her growing puppies need, as stated by "Nutrition for Veterinary Technicians."

    Considerations

    • Pregnant dogs experience a lack of appetite around the third week of pregnancy. This is a normal occurrence, according to the "Clinical Textbook for Veterinary Technicians." This temporary period of reduced appetite typically lasts between three and 10 days. Seek veterinary advice if the dog stops eating for more than two days, or the dog ceases eating altogether. This may be a sign of a serious illness or a complication related to the pregnancy.

    Expert Insight

    • Speak to a licensed veterinarian about your dog's dietary needs. Other factors may affect what changes need to be made, including the amount and type of food given. These factors include your dog's age, her overall weight, the physical activity level of your dog and any underlying health problems that may be present.