Birth and puppy care in small hunting dogs: Reproductive health for a strong next generation
Introduction: The cycle of life
The birth and care of puppies is a moving moment in the life of every dog owner, especially in the case of small hunting dogs. These dynamic and energetic four-legged friends not only bring life to the woods, but also joy to our hearts. But to ensure that these new additions are healthy and robust, it is important to keep an eye on their reproductive health. Ready to dive into the fascinating world of dog birthing and puppy care? Then let's get started!
Prenatal phase: preparation is everything
Before we look at the actual birth, let's take a look at the preparation phase. The health of the female dog giving birth plays a decisive role. The bitch should be in top condition to be able to carry and give birth to the offspring in the best possible way.
- Regular visits to the vet: Ensure that the bitch has had all necessary vaccinations and a general health check.
- Suitable nutrition: High quality food that is rich in vitamins and nutrients to keep the mother and unborn puppies healthy.
- Advice from experts: Talk to an experienced breeder or vet to prepare for the birthing process.
The birth: A marvellous spectacle
Now the big day has finally arrived. The birth of small hunting dogs can be an intense experience. Every breed has its own characteristics, and the individual bitch also brings her own specialities with her.
Signs of the impending birth
How do you recognise that it's about to start? Here are some typical signs:
- Calmer and more withdrawn behaviour
- Panting and trembling
- Nest building and restlessness
The birth process
The birth takes place in several phases:
- Opening phase: This can last from several hours to a day. The bitch shows restlessness and labour begins.
- Expulsion phase: The actual birth of the puppies begins. Each birth can take between 20 minutes and an hour.
- Postnatal phase: This is where the afterbirth is expelled, which is also important for the mother's health.
Postnatal care: The well-being of the puppies and the mother
The birth is over, now the intensive care phase begins. The first few weeks are crucial for the health and well-being of the puppies.
Nutrition of newborns
Mother's milk is essential for puppies in the first few weeks. It contains all the necessary nutrients and antibodies.
But what happens if the mother doesn't have enough milk or the puppies are rejected? Then hand-rearing with special puppy milk is required.
Creating a safe and comfortable home
A quiet and secluded place is ideal. A puppy bed should be kept clean, warm and dry. Temperature regulation is a must to protect the little rascals from the cold.
Critical socialisation: preparation for the world
In the first eight weeks, puppies go through important development phases. Socialisation plays a crucial role in preparing them for their later life.
The first weeks of life at a glance
- Week 1-2: Eyes and ears open and the puppies begin to perceive their surroundings.
- Week 3-4: The first steps are taken and they begin to play with each other.
- Week 5-8: The puppies learn social interactions and experience their first adventures.
The right time for the first vet visit
The first visit to the vet is due in the sixth week at the latest. Here the puppies are vaccinated and thoroughly examined.
Reproductive health: preventive measures for bitch and dog
Health care is not only important during pregnancy, but also before and after.
Regular preventive medical check-ups
Both female and male dogs should have regular health checks. This includes:
- Health checks
- Vaccinations
- Nutritional counselling
Genetic health
To Hereditary diseases it is important to know the genetic health of the parent animals. Reputable breeders have their dogs tested for specific hereditary diseases.
Long-term health of the puppies
A healthy diet and regular exercise should be prioritised from an early age. A balanced diet and sufficient exercise are the be-all and end-all for small hunting dogs.
Final thoughts: Promoting harmonious coexistence
The birth and care of puppies is a responsible and exciting task. With the right knowledge and the necessary preparation, you can ensure that your little hunting dogs grow up healthy and happy.
Reproductive health is the key to a successful breeding programme and the foundation for a long and happy life for your dogs. Whether you are an aspiring breeder or simply love your little hunting dog, this knowledge will help you to give your four-legged friends the best start in life.
Let's get on with it - your puppies will thank you!
FAQs
What do you need to consider when giving birth to puppies?
There are various signs of the approaching birth of puppies that you should look out for. These include increased restlessness, nest-building behaviour and increased panting. It is important to keep a close eye on the bitch during this phase and ensure that she has a quiet and protected place to give birth.
Why do puppies die after birth?
Sometimes it can happen that puppies die after birth. One possible reason for this is delayed involution or inflammation of the uterus in the first eight days after birth. This leads to toxins from the uterus entering the mother's bloodstream and eventually reaching the puppies via the milk, which can have fatal consequences.
When do small dogs give birth?
The birth date in small dogs is usually reached after a gestation period of 58 to 68 days. On average, the pregnancy lasts around 63 days. There is a rule of thumb that fewer puppies mean a longer pregnancy. If the bitch is only carrying one pup, this will not usually be born before the 63rd day.
How many puppies does a small dog have in its first litter?
The number of puppies a bitch gives birth to varies depending on the breed and body size of the parents. Small dog breeds give birth to an average of three to four puppies per litter. Medium-sized breeds give birth to an average of six to seven puppies, while large breeds can have up to nine puppies.
