How many puppies do dogs have? More than you think! Your dog may not be expecting puppies at this very moment, but it’s always better to be prepared than caught unaware. Plus, if you want to learn more about whelping, then you’re in the right place! We’ll cover what is whelping for dogs and how to tell when your dog is in labor, along with other frequently asked questions about whelping that can help ensure that your dog has the safest birthing experience possible.
1) Introduction
When a dog gets pregnant, they go through a process called whelping that begins in the weeks before the birth. It is important to prepare for this event by stocking up on supplies, such as a whelping box for dogs. A whelping box is typically an enclosed area with plenty of room for the mother-to-be and her newborn pups, but it's not necessary to have one from the start. If you're planning on whelping your dog at home then it's recommended that you wait until after your dog has given birth to purchase one so that you can make sure it's big enough to provide ample space for everyone.
2) The stages of whelping
Whelping is the process of giving birth to puppies. The entire whelping process can take anywhere from a few hours to a day or two. If you have planned ahead and set up your whelping box, the process should go much more smoothly.
Here are the steps involved in whelping: First, start by feeling around for the pups’ noses. Next, pull out the pup gently but quickly with one hand while you keep pressure on its head with your other hand so that it doesn't get stuck. Once you have pulled out one pup, put them in the warm water while feeling around for another pup. Repeat this until all pups are out of their mother's womb. After removing all pups from their mother's womb, help her stand up and find a nice spot for her to lie down again with her hind legs spread apart so she doesn't accidentally hurt any newly born pups if she moves too quickly after laying down again. Then, dry off each pup thoroughly and make sure they are breathing properly before returning them to their mother's nipples. Take care not to handle any new borns at this point because they need time to adjust to being outside of the womb and will be sensitive.
3) Preparing for whelping
Whelping can be a trying time for the new mother and her puppies. The process is all about making sure that the mother and her puppies are safe and comfortable. One of the most important parts of this process is choosing the right whelping box for dogs. A whelping box for dogs will not only provide comfort, it will also ensure that the mother's birthing area remains clean and tidy. A good option is to make your own from blankets, towels or old clothing. If you do purchase a commercial product, make sure to find one with an opening on top so that you have easy access to check on your dog as she progresses through her labor. Make sure you have extra bedding material ready in case of accidents.
4) The importance of a clean environment
Whelping puppies can be a messy business. But it is important to have the right kind of whelping box for dogs to make the process as clean and comfortable as possible. The most popular type of whelping box is a whelping bench. A whelping bench typically has a thick padded surface that allows the mother to have extra comfort while lying on her side and an elevated surface, or shelf for the puppies to nestle in. It is also worth noting that these benches come with either wood-based or metal-based legs, both of which are equally sturdy.
A cloth covering over the top of the bench will help protect it from any messes that might occur during labor and birth.
5) Assisting during delivery
During the delivery, the dog's owner should know what to expect and be prepared. This includes knowing how to care for their pet during whelping. The first step is to prepare a whelping box for dogs. This can be done by lining a cardboard box with towels or blankets. The bottom of the box should be lined with newspaper and have a kennel pad on top so the mother can have something soft to lie on while giving birth. Put some more padding on the floor of the box before placing a heating pad under it. Remember to keep an eye on the temperature and make sure that it doesn't get too hot. It should stay between 80 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. If the room becomes too cold, you may want to turn up the heat or turn on a small space heater near her head. Once she has given birth, take the puppies away from her until they are strong enough to start feeding from her. At this point, she'll need all of her strength to produce milk for them. Let your veterinarian show you how often to feed them and when they're ready, place them back in with their momma for feeding time.
6) After the delivery
Conclusion
Whelping is an exciting time for any dog owner, but it can also be a bit overwhelming. Thankfully, we've put together this comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about whelping for dogs. From the early stages of pregnancy to the moment your puppy is born, we've got you covered. So take a deep breath and relax - everything is going to be just fine.