Chronic Diseases & Special Conditions
Nutrition for Pregnant & Nursing Dogs
Calorie needs for pregnant and nursing dogs drastically increase, especially in late pregnancy and during lactation. Ensure proper nutrition for mom and pups.
When to see a vet IMMEDIATELY
- •Blood in stool or vomit
- •Lethargy, not drinking, or not eating for 24+ hours
- •Repeated vomiting, especially if water won't stay down
- •Swollen or painful abdomen, whimpering
- •Diarrhea lasting more than 3 days, or worsening symptoms
This article is informational and does not replace veterinary examination.
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Feeding Pregnant & Nursing Dogs
3 Stages of Pregnancy
1. First Trimester (Weeks 1-3) Calorie needs do not increase. Feed normal maintenance diet. Do not overfeed.
2. Second Trimester (Weeks 4-6) Calories +10-15%. Slowly transition to puppy food.
3. Third Trimester (Weeks 7-9) In the last 3 weeks, about 25-50% more calories than maintenance. Feed multiple, smaller meals 3-4 times daily. Puppy food is mandatory.
Lactation
Needs depend on litter size and peak in weeks 3-5.
- Week 1: about 1.5× maintenance
- Week 2: about 2× maintenance
- Weeks 3-5 (peak): about 2-4× maintenance, depending on litter size
- From Week 6: Gradually decreases
Simple Formula
- Pregnant (last 3 weeks): about 25-50% more than maintenance
- Lactating (peak, weeks 3-5): about 3-8× RER, i.e. about 2-4× maintenance (depends on litter size). Confirm the exact amount with your veterinarian and monitor body condition.
What to Feed?
Puppy Food (only):
- Higher calories
- Higher protein (28-32%)
- Higher Calcium (Ca) and Phosphorus (P)
- More fat
Water Intake
A lactating dog may drink 3x more water. Always provide fresh water; wet food is recommended.
Calcium Supplementation (CAUTION)
Never give calcium supplements during pregnancy (increases risk of eclampsia). Puppy food is adequate. Eclampsia typically appears 1-4 weeks after whelping, at peak lactation (less often around the birth). It is a veterinary emergency: the vet gives calcium intravenously with monitoring. Do not give oral calcium at home on your own, and don't wait for it to pass.
Eclampsia
Life-threatening low blood calcium. Symptoms: restlessness, trembling, muscle spasms, high fever, seizures. Emergency!
Loss of Appetite Near Whelping
Normal. If no food for 24+ hours, whelping is imminent.
Post-Whelping
- Slightly smaller portions, more frequently
- Always provide accessible water
- Continue puppy food
Weaning
From Week 6, puppies start eating solid food. Reduce mother's food intake at Weeks 7-8. Complete weaning by Weeks 8-10. Continue puppy food for the mother for another 1-2 weeks.
Weight Management
An 8-25% weight gain during pregnancy is normal. She will lose weight during lactation. Weight should stabilize from Weeks 6-8 post-whelping.
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References
- 1.Greco DS — Nutritional supplements for pregnant and lactating bitches. Theriogenology 70(3):393–396, 2008. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.04.013 (accessed: 2026-09-10)
- 2.National Research Council (US), Committee on Animal Nutrition — Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006. https://doi.org/10.17226/10668 (accessed: 2026-09-10)
- 3.FEDIAF (European Pet Food Industry Federation) — Nutritional Guidelines for Complete and Complementary Pet Food for Cats and Dogs. FEDIAF, 2024. https://europeanpetfood.org/self-regulation/nutritional-guidelines/ (accessed: 2026-09-10)
- 4.Hawthorne AJ, Booles D, Nugent PA, Gettinby G, Wilkinson J — Body-weight changes during growth in puppies of different breeds. The Journal of Nutrition 134(8):2027S–2030S, 2004. https://doi.org/10.1093/jn/134.8.2027S (accessed: 2026-09-10)
This is general information and does not replace a veterinary diagnosis.
This guide was compiled based on the expert input of Reka Fazekas-Birizdo canine nutritionist.
Certified Canine Nutritionist