Care of the Pregnant DogCare of the pregnant dog will guide you through this important time in your dog's life and yours,but first, a disclaimer: I don't believe dogs (or cats) should be pregnant unless it's within the confines of a limited, responsible breeding environment. There are tragically too many unwanted dogs and puppies being euthenized in shelters due to irresponsible pet ownership. That being said, I'll step off my soapbox and impart some well-researched advice should you find yourself caring for a pregnant dog...
Natural Nutrition for the Pregnant DogAside from the vet visit, natural nutrition and the appropriate quantity is so important to a dog's healthy pregnancy and the health of her puppies. Feed your pregnant dog the most wholesome, highest quality food you can afford, but do not overfeed her. Obesity can cause complications in pregnancy and whelping (birthing). Good natural care for the pregnant dog dictate that the first six weeks of her eight week gestation period, a pregnant momma needs only what she normally eats. This changes though in the last two weeks of gestation when the puppies are rapidly developing and her body is preparing to nurse her young. At this time, her appetite and weight will increase; you will need to serve her at least 25% more food than her typical diet. Of course, with pups pressing on her stomach and internal organs she may only be able to consume smaller amounts of food at one feeding. At this point, you may want make food available to her several times through out the day. Once again, Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide offers great nutritional advice on diet for an expecting mother dog. At all times, make certain she has clean, fresh water available. 
Following the birth of the puppies, your momma-dog's food consumption will increase even more as her puppies nurse more frequently and continue to grow. At this point, she may be eating anywhere from two to four times what she normally consumes. Feed her all she wants, but if she loses weight, you may want to supplement her diet with a favorite treat-cheese, chicken, etc.
Exercise for the Pregnant DogExercise is also a key element in natural care for the pregnant dog. Your girl needs walks at her pace throughout her pregnancy to maintain muscle tone and a healthy weight. A working dog or a competitive dog,however, should curtail strenuous activities until after pregnancy; walks are recommended.What Happens at Birth?As the time for whelping draws near, your dog may exhibit behaviors that indicate she's close to delivery. Hopefully by this time, you will have prepared a nursing area for her in an area of the home that's warm, clean and quiet. A stress-free environment is something to strive for in the care of the pregnant dog, as stress can endanger the dog and the puppies. Some signs to look for that your dog is close to giving birth are the following: Nesting: Your dog will move the blankets about, and perhaps begin to pace. She may even appear agitated or restless; Zoning-out: Your momma dog may also get a "zoned-out", day-dreamy look in her eyes as she is preparing to go into labor; Clingy behavior: Some females will become clingy and perhaps follow you everywhere. This is a sign that she needs comfort; lead her to the nursing area and stay with her, comforting her. When labor begins and the pups are born, she will become occupied with their care and will not really notice your presence; Avoiding behavior: Other females will try to escape your presence and hide. This too, is not unheard of; as long as you check on her regularly, this momma is telling you she pretty much wants to be left alone! Lack of appetite: Shortly before labor, the female dog's appetite will disappear. This too, is a natural sign of labor; follow good natural care for the pregnant dog, and good nutrition practices when her appetite returns after birth. Return from Care of the Pregnant Dog to All Natural Pet Care Home
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