Postpartum Care for the New Canine Mum: What Breeders Should Know
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Caring for the Postpartum Dog
Learn how to care for your bitch after whelping. Tips on nutrition, hygiene, rest, and warning signs every breeder should monitor.
The birth may be over, but the work is far from done. Postpartum care is just as crucial as pregnancy care, ensuring both the dam and her litter remain healthy and strong. Here’s what breeders need to focus on in the days and weeks following delivery.
1. Monitor the Dam Closely
After whelping, a bitch may be exhausted, sore, and hormonal. Monitor her closely for:
- Temperature spikes (above 39.4°C can indicate infection)
- Heavy or foul-smelling discharge
- Swollen or hot mammary glands (a possible sign of mastitis)
- Lack of appetite or extreme fatigue
Most dogs will pass a reddish-brown discharge (lochia) for up to 3 weeks postpartum—this is normal unless it changes colour or smell.
2. Support Her Nutrition
Producing milk takes a lot of energy. Postpartum dogs require a calorie-dense, high-quality diet—often double or triple their normal intake. Offer food and fresh water frequently.
You may also need:
- Calcium supplements (especially for small breeds or large litters)
- Electrolyte support if she’s dehydrated
- Pet Nutri-Drops - administered orally and delivers vital nutrients measurable in the blood stream in minutes
3. Keep Her Clean and Comfortable
The whelping area should stay warm, dry, and clean. Replace soiled bedding regularly. Use pet-safe disinfectants such as F10 Veterinary to reduce bacterial risk.
Wipe the dam gently with a clean cloth if there’s a build-up of fluids around the vulva, mammaries, or tail.
4. Manage Stress and Rest
The new mum will need peace, quiet, and reassurance. Too much foot traffic or noise can cause anxiety and interfere with bonding and feeding.
Avoid moving the puppies or disturbing the whelping area unless necessary. Let her decide when she’s ready for short breaks away from the litter.
5. Watch for Post-Whelping Complications
Act immediately if you notice:
- Shivering or excessive and prolonged panting.
- Sudden aggression or disinterest in pups
- Diarrhoea or vomiting
- No milk production, or pups not gaining weight
Early treatment = better outcomes.
Final Thoughts
After birth care is just as crucial as pregnancy care. Ensuring the dam has adequate rest, good nutrition, is kept clean and warm and is monitored for any signs of complications is crucial to ensure the dam and her litter remain healthy ad strong.