Caissie Canine Instruction: Pregnancy in K9’s

We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring a beautiful Golden Retriever named Ayla.

Ayla is the 6th Golden Retriever we’ve had the pleasure to raise. Although each one was unique in personality, they were all truly Goldens at heart.

Ayla is 15 months old now and growing up with Sidney a 9-year-old black lab. I feel for Sidney, as some days Ayla would play all day long. This is when baby gates and the crate come in handy.

She has been a little bit of a challenge to train. But we’re having great success with Paul’s training. Ayla is excellent off leash and loves going to Greenwood conservation area for long hikes with Sidney. She loves meeting new dogs big or small.

She has been a graceful swimmer since she was 3 months old. Absolutely loves water, pools, creeks, garden hose, and playing in her water bowl.

Like a true Retriever Ayla’s always carrying a stuffed animal in her mouth or playing with a tennis ball! She is a beautiful Golden Retriever and we’re excited to watch her grow, love her dearly and share this precious time together.

Welcome to Doggie Dialogue

K9 pregnancy typically lasts 62 days and most owners will focus on nutrition for their K9 and regular vet visits. Early signs of pregnancy in your K9 you will notice a change in their appetite, increased tiredness, enlarged nipples, clear vaginal discharge and possibly affectionate behaviour. Your K9 may experience weariness and lethargy, especially in the early weeks.

Later signs of K9 pregnancy are weight gain, increased appetite and behavioural changes.

Here are a few tips for caring for your K9 during pregnancy:

1.    Nutrition-gradually increase your K9’s food intake 35-50% more than usual and feed her small, frequent meals.

2.    Regular Veterinary Care-therefore the vet can monitor the pregnancy and address any potential issues.

3.    Providing a Comfortable Nesting Place-you can provide a safe place for your K9 to give birth.

4.    Exercise-maintain a moderate exercise routine but avoid any strenuous activities.

5.    Keep away from other dogs-we recommend keeping your K9 away from other dogs during pregnancy to prevent infections or injury.

Remember to monitor your K9’s temperature as a rise in temperature can be a sign of infection.

When it is time, you will want to prepare yourself and your K9 for whelping or puppy birthing. The best way to do this is to set up a whelping box. Whelping boxes offer a warm, safe, draft-free, and a quite location for your K9 and her puppies.

Please speak to your veterinarian should you have any questions about your K9’s pregnancy or your role during labour.