How to Build Whelping Beds

When a dog is pregnant, it's important that she be well cared for, and that her owners be prepared for the impending birth. Owners should start by drawing up a time line, so they have an idea of when to look for labor, and get their supplies together ahead of time. One of the key supplies for birth is a whelping box, or box for the dog to use when giving birth to and later caring for and nursing the puppies.

Things You'll Need

  • Cardboard box
  • Scissors
  • Newspaper
  • Blankets
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a box to use for the whelping box. The box should be big enough to house both mother and puppies, and can be as simple as a cardboard box. Make sure there will be enough room for the mother to get up, turn and shift without stepping on the babies. The height of the sides of the box is relatively unimportant, as the purpose of the box is to hold the babies in and give the mother dog a place to call her own.

    • 2

      Cut one side of the box out to create an open front. Maintain an edge along the bottom of the open side, to keep the puppies inside the box. The mother should be able to get in and out of the box easily, without scraping her nipples.

    • 3

      Line the whelping box with newspaper, and put blankets in. Try to use soft blankets, and avoid any rough or scratchy material; newborn pups can be sensitive to rough material like burlap or unwashed flannel. Introduce your dog to the box beforehand so that she can nest.

    • 4

      Keep the box in the area where you'd like the birth to take place. The best options are controlled environments like a bathroom or enclosed kitchen. Make sure that the area is warm enough to make the dog comfortable, and easily accessible; the dog should be able to get into this area on her own if and when she wants to.