What Supplements To Give Pregnant & Nursing Dogs?
A nursing or pregnant dog needs special care in the form of more energy, protein, and key nutrients to stay healthy. Choosing the right diet and nutrition supplements is important for her daily nutritional needs, strength, and the growth of her litter. Let’s learn more about the nutritional supplements for pregnant and nursing dogs that nurture both their strength and the next generation’s future.
Overview of Supplements for Pregnant & Nursing Dogs
Your dog's body puts in extra effort while she is pregnant or caring for her litter. The majority of the nutrients she needs are frequently found in commercially available, high-quality, life-stage-balanced food. Since over-supplementing, particularly with calcium, can be detrimental, many veterinarians emphasize that additional supplements are not required unless recommended. However, in certain situations, specific dietary and nutritional supplements can help mom and pups develop normally and have more energy and immunity.
What To Feed A Pregnant Dog?
Your dog just needs her usual, well-balanced diet during the first few months of pregnancy. Her energy requirements increase by week five and can increase by up to 50% by the end of pregnancy. For additional protein, fat, and vitamins, veterinarians advise switching to puppy food. To accommodate her expanding stomach, serve her smaller, more frequent meals.
What To Feed A Nursing Dog?
Your dog will have even higher nutritional needs after her puppies are born. She needs to consume up to three times as much energy as usual because her milk must feed several pups continuously. Keep giving that nutritious puppy food. Avoid extra supplements unless your veterinarian prescribes them for a particular deficiency or health issue.
Supplements for Pregnant Dogs
Supplements are usually unnecessary if your dog's diet is complete and balanced, but mistakes like giving them too much calcium can lead to dangerous conditions like eclampsia after whelping.
Nonetheless, early puppy development can be supported by a small supplement of folic acid (vitamin B9); this should always be done under a veterinarian's supervision and with pet-safe products rather than human prenatal vitamins.
Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids (DHA/EPA) may help puppies' brain and eye development through their mother's diet. However, as always, veterinary advice is crucial.
Why Collagen is Crucial During Canine Pregnancy?
Collagen helps to repair skin, joints, and tissues throughout pregnancy and lactation. There aren't many studies on dogs, but it may help with stretching and soreness. Since pet-safe collagen supplements complement nutritional supplements and essential vitamins for nursing dogs rather than replace them, it should always be used under a veterinarian's supervision.
Diet and Nutrition for Pregnant and Nursing Dogs
If you’ve a pregnant or nursing furry friend, serve them a diet rich in nutrients, essential vitamins, protein, healthy fats, iron, and folic acid. The idea is to serve food that is easy to digest. Make sure to avoid too much calcium and concentrate on eating often and staying hydrated.
Dog chicken treats given as protein snacks and supplements for nursing dogs, under a veterinarian's supervision, support good health and a balanced diet.
Takeaway
Your dog needs your undivided attention and support during her motherhood journey. She can remain strong for her puppies with a well-balanced diet and gentle **dog supplements** like collagen that has been approved by a veterinarian, folic acid, or omega-3. For optimal care, however, don't forget to heed your veterinarian's recommendations regarding her diet and nutritional supplements.