Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Dog Pregnancy



If your German Shepherd becomes pregnant, she will be for about 9 weeks. Your normal feeding and exercise among other things must change to accommodate her and her unborn puppies. You aren't just feeding her anymore... she may be eating for 4! Adding vitamins and protein to her food is a great idea. Keeping her on a regular exercise routine as you did before she became pregnant is very important. The exercise needs to be more calm and laid back so she doesn't strain too much.

Some of the symptoms in the first couple weeks may be some weight gain, possible morning sickness and just being a bit restless at times. If you are unsure of what's going on, take her into your vet for an ultrasound to make sure you are taking all the proper precautions to help her along with a healthy and easy pregnancy.

Preparing for the puppies and making your German Shepherd comfortable is the first and most important thing at the beginning of this process. A whelping box is something you should set up for your dog to nest in and give birth. This will keep the mess out of your living room, bedroom or wherever she would decide to have her babies. Make sure it's well padded and in a spot that she can have some privacy and feel protected and secure. I wouldn't suggest trying to deliver the babies as they like to have some space when the birthing process takes place. I would just stay near by just in case you are needed.