Essential Supplies for a Dog's Pregnancy: What You Need

Preparation for Dog Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Assemble the Birthing Box

The birthing box should be constructed from sturdy wood or, alternatively, a sturdy cardboard box that is appropriately sized for the mother dog to deliver her puppies and nurse them. One side of the box should have a cutout to facilitate the puppies' entry and exit. Inside, line the box with soft bedding materials such as short straw or rags. Place the box in the mother dog's kennel two days before the expected delivery date.

2. Use Disposable Plastic Gloves

When assisting with the birth, wearing gloves is crucial to prevent any potential infections for the mother dog.

3. Alcohol

Keep alcohol handy for disinfecting your hands and any tools used during the birthing process. Be sure to thoroughly clean the scissors with alcohol wipes to prevent injury to the puppies.

4. Scissors

Use these to snip the umbilical cords of the newborn puppies. The scissors should not be too sharp to avoid cutting the puppies themselves.

5. Iodine

Apply iodine to disinfect the freshly cut umbilical cords of the puppies. It's normal for the cords to bleed after being cut, so don't be alarmed. After trimming the umbilical cord, apply iodine to the puppy's navel to help with disinfection and止血.

6. Cotton Swabs

Use cotton swabs to apply the iodine to the puppy's navel after the umbilical cord is cut.

7. Cotton or Silk Thread

This is used to tie off the puppies' umbilical cords. It's recommended to tie the cords with a piece of cotton or silk thread after cutting them, as this aids in the healing process.

8. Provide the Mother Dog with Warm Water

Giving birth is a lengthy and physically demanding process for dogs, sometimes taking several hours. Ensuring the mother stays hydrated is important. Keep a bottle of warm water within easy reach so she can drink during the birthing process.

9. A Heating Pad

Especially useful during winter months, a heating pad can help maintain the temperature of the newborn puppies, who are fragile and rely on their mother's body heat. The heating pad should be kept at a comfortable temperature (4050 degrees) to prevent burns.

10. Prepare an Abundance of Tissue Paper or Clean, Absorbent Cloths

As the puppies are born, the mother dog may bleed and other fluids will be present. Having plenty of tissues or clean, absorbent cloths on hand is essential for cleaning up during the birthing process.

Remember to provide proper postbirth care for the mother dog.

Tip: For more information on the care of a mother dog postpartum, click here to learn about the important issues to consider during the puppy's first few weeks.