Nutrition for the pregnant dog: Croney Research Group
Weeks 1-5
Feed an adult maintenance complete and balanced diet made from high-quality ingredients including animal-based protein and fats.
To promote healthy eye and brain development, incorporate foods that are rich in the omega-3 fatty acid DHA, such as cold water fish oil or salmon oil.
energy requirement: adult maintenance
It is important to maintain optimal body condition. Overweight dogs are at increased risk of dystocia.
Week 6
energy requirement: maintenance + 10%
Energy requirements begin to increase. Begin transition to a high-quality, nutritionally complete and balanced puppy food
Week 7
energy requirement: week 6 + 10%
Feed a puppy diet that contains at least 29% protein, 17% fat (dry matter basis) with high amounts of soluble carbohydrates, low fiber, and DHA.
Week 8
energy requirement: week 7 + 10%
Week 9
energy requirement: week 8 + 10%
Continue to feed several meals a day or free choice.
Topic(s): Bare Bones Basics, Breeder Resource, Gestating Females, Nutrition