Caring for pregnant dog requires quite some knowledge and guidance to perfect it. It’s no secret that knowing your pet is expecting some puppies drums up excitement and responsibility. Just like human beings, dogs too require pre-natal care. They too face difficulties in their pregnancies and this can be due to certain factors such as health, environment, genetics and nutrition. Therefore, breeding a pregnant dog should never be taken lightly.

When there are a couple of nibbles you and your pet can appreciate with them, shrimp is one which should be drawn closer with some consideration. Thus, Can Dogs Eat Shrimp? Lets discover the appropriate response and approach to serve it.

How do you know if your dog is pregnant?

Let it be clear that dogs could have all the signs of being pregnant, but turn out to be just a false call. Signs such as swollen nipples, big belly, lethargy, increased weight and appetite are just some of the signs your dog might be having. It might be quite confusing to a hormonal imbalance female since they inhibit such symptoms and that’s why you need to take your dog to the vet for testing. Your vet will test for the presence of the hormone Relaxin to confirm the pregnancy.

Things to know when caring for pregnant dog.

• Nutrition:  Your dog requires a nutritious and healthy diet. This will aid in the proper development of both the mother and the puppies. Your dog’s body will undergo certain physical changes that will require more on the amount of nutrients they take. Be sure to give the meals in small portions, but make it frequent since their stomachs will accommodate small portions of food due to the increasing size of the puppies.
• Exercises: Your dog needs strong muscles to help carry the weight of the developing puppies and also for giving birth. Giving them walks daily help them balance their own weight and that of the puppies. However, heavy activities should be avoided, especially three weeks to giving birth to allow for birth preparedness.
• Stressors: Make sure to avoid stressing your dog during this period as they are very sensitive. It is good to show affection, but pregnant dogs could be easily irritated, therefore avoid anything that might make them uncomfortable.
• Medication:  Most vets recommend against the use of medications such as vaccinations since they harm the unborn pups. Though there are prescriptions which are not harmful such as de-wormers and anti-flea which are safe for pregnant dogs.
• Whelping box: It is important to prepare a place where your dog will be giving birth. This should be a dark place with less noise. A whelping box is the best option and the earlier she gets used to it the best and easier the birth process.
• Support: This is the most important above all. Be there for your dog at the most crucial time of its life.