How Should Pregnant Dogs Be Fed?

Pregnancy, as in all living beings, is an important process in the lives of dogs that brings with it different requirements. For a smooth pregnancy and healthy puppies, dogs need to be fed according to the specific guidelines of the pregnancy period. In our article titled "Pregnancy in Dogs, Symptoms and Nutrition for Pregnant Dogs," you can find details about important factors specific to this period. This article provides information on how dogs should be fed during their pregnancy.

Maintaining Weight Balance in the First 6 Weeks

The duration of pregnancy in dogs varies depending on the breed, but generally lasts 58-64 days. Different goals are aimed at achieving different goals with special nutrition programs at different stages of this process. When pregnancy is diagnosed in dogs and the approximate due date is determined, nutrition programs are prepared to maintain the dog's ideal weight for the first 6 weeks. Since weight gain in the early stages of pregnancy can lead to problems during delivery, keeping weight gain at a maximum of 10% in the first 6 weeks is an important requirement.

During the first 6 weeks of pregnancy, the growth rate of embryos is extremely slow, so there is no significant change in the energy needs of dogs. Therefore, there is no harm in feeding them adult dog food during this period. This period can bring about mood swings in dogs, as well as changes in appetite. Appetite may decrease or increase; both changes are normal. What should be noted is that pregnant dogs should not experience weight loss. If weight loss occurs, support should be sought from a veterinarian.

Critical Changes Occur Between 6 and 9 Weeks

Significant changes begin to be seen in dogs from approximately the 42nd day of pregnancy. During this period, the fetuses enter a rapid growth phase. This rapid growth simultaneously increases the energy needs of pregnant dogs. As fetuses grow and take up more space in the abdominal area, the amount of food that female dogs can hold in their stomachs decreases. All these reasons necessitate significant changes in the diet of pregnant dogs. Ultrasound scan results will be important guides in restructuring the feeding plan. Whether a single birth is expected or multiple births will have different effects on the feeding plan. Experts emphasize that changing food is critically important at this stage of pregnancy. In the final stages of pregnancy, when more energy is needed, feeding female dogs puppy food is extremely important for both their own health and the health of the puppies. Puppy food is richer in calories, protein, minerals, and vitamins compared to adult dog food. All of these are critically important for the developing puppies in the womb. Another advantage of puppy food at this stage is that it can meet the needs of the female even if consumed in smaller quantities than adult dog food. Due to the shrinking stomachs caused by growing fetuses, access to sufficient nutrients in small amounts is one of the factors contributing to the health of females.

Experts emphasize that changing food is critically important at this stage of pregnancy. Feeding female dogs with puppy food during the final stages of pregnancy, when they need more energy, is extremely important for both their own health and the health of their puppies. Puppy food is richer in calories, protein, minerals, and vitamins compared to adult dog food. All of these are critically important for puppies developing in the womb. Another advantage of puppy food at this stage is that even if consumed in smaller quantities than adult dog food, it can still meet the needs of the female. Due to the shrinking stomachs of growing fetuses, access to sufficient nutrients in small amounts is one of the factors contributing to the health of females.

Do Pregnant Dogs Need Vitamin and Mineral Supplements?

When dry foods that use quality food sources and offer a balanced and complete diet are preferred, there may not be a need for additional vitamin and mineral supplements in pregnant dogs. However, veterinary evaluations are important at this stage. Depending on variables such as the age of the females, their general health status, and how many births they have had, the use of additional vitamin and mineral supplements may become an important necessity.

The Need of Pregnant Dogs: Quality and Balanced Nutrition

In order to meet the changing nutritional needs of pregnant dogs, they should be fed with puppy foods that have a quality and balanced formula both after the 6th week of pregnancy and during the lactation period. Pro Plan, one of the world's leading premium dog food brands, continues to be the choice of many people who live with dogs, thanks to its high-quality products that enable complete and balanced nutrition for dogs with different needs. You can also browse Pro Plan puppy foods here to ensure your pet has a healthier pregnancy and that the puppies grow optimally. While making choices suitable for your dog's breed and general health condition, you can benefit from the assurance of Terralora's 100% original product guarantee.