
As the fetuses develop and grow, your Dachshund’s appetite is likely to increase as well, therefore, you should feed her 50% more food than she normally eats. The food should be high in proteins, and the best food to feed her is dairy products, meat porridges, and cooked vegetables.
Can I give my dachshund puppy food while pregnant?
Towards the end of week 7, go back to feeding your Dachshund her regular diet and stop feeding her the puppy food you have been introducing to her during the pregnancy. This makes your Dachshund’s body start storing the calcium she got from the puppy food, which is an essential mineral for the later stages of pregnancy.
What should I Feed my dachshund after whelping?
Keep your Dachshund on a high-quality kibble that is high-protein, you can even mix their regular kibble with a quality puppy food so your female has plenty of nutrients to feed her new puppies. I also like to add a tablespoon of cottage cheese to their food twice a day to add calcium to their diet for the first two weeks after whelping.
What are the symptoms of a pregnant dachshund?
The most common dachshund pregnancy symptoms include enlarged nipples, behavioral changes, swollen belly, vaginal discharge and changes in their appetite. Additional Dach symptoms include nesting behaviors, avoiding other dogs, and burying food and water dishes. The 7 stages of dachshund pregnancy week by week (with pictures)
Can dachshunds eat wet food?
Giving your dog wet food reduces the amount of water they need, but wet food alone is not enough for their hydration needs. Protein: Dogs need plenty of animal-based proteins to meet all of their dietary requirements. Vegetarian diets are not suitable for dachshunds and can lead to severe health problems unless extremely short-term.

What's the best food to feed a pregnant dog?
Nutrition for Pregnant DogsFeeding an all life stage puppy food such as Purina® Puppy Chow® brand puppy food is best.The food should have 1600 kcal digestible energy per pound of food and at least 22 percent protein.More items...
How much should a pregnant dachshund eat?
A useful rule of thumb is feeding an extra 10% energy per week until birth. To ensure she is able to eat this, particularly with the smaller amount of stomach space, you should start to offer the food in little and often meals, rather than two large meals per day.
What can I feed my dog while pregnant?
To help your dog get the extra energy to nurse the needy litter, keep feeding your pet the puppy formula that they had throughout pregnancy. Its higher calorie content and added nutrients will give your dog strength, and help the new mum produce high-quality milk for the pups.
Do pregnant dogs need special food?
Different Stages of Dog Pregnancy Require Different Foods We advise a transition to a recommended growth/lactation diet to provide the extra nutrients, all while still providing the correct vitamin/micronutrient balance.
Are eggs good for a pregnant dog?
Eggs are good for dogs as they provide an excellent source of fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and protein. Essentially the entire egg, including the eggshell, can be nutritious for dogs.
Is boiled chicken good for pregnant dogs?
Try to feed your dog high-quality protein during pregnancy and nursing. Best source of protein for dogs is meat, so focus on chicken, turkey, beef, lamb and fish (as long as she's not allergic to any of these ingredients). Eggs and dairy products are also good secondary sources of quality protein.
Are carrots good for pregnant dogs?
Yes, dogs can eat carrots. In fact, not only is this vegetable safe, but it also can serve as a healthy, low-calorie snack for your pup.
Is milk good for pregnant dogs?
Dietary supplements, such as meats, milk, vitamins and minerals are generally not recommended if a high-quality growth/lactation diet is fed. Feeding excessive amounts of calcium or vitamin D can cause calcification of the soft tissues of the fetus, as well as other birth defects.
How many times a day should I feed my pregnant dog?
Because many females suffer from decreased appetite late in pregnancy due to abdominal distention, more frequent meals help maintain nutrient intake during this critical time. She should be fed at least twice daily.
Can pregnant dogs eat chicken?
This is not a good idea. Chicken and steak will not be a balanced diet for your dog and the puppies may not develop properly. Try feeding her some good quality puppy food, warm it up in the microwave, canned puppy food may be even better.
Is Tuna good for pregnant dogs?
Can puppies and pregnant dogs eat tuna? Weaned puppies and pregnant dogs can benefit from the extra lean protein found in tuna in addition to their regular diet. Light tuna (tuna canned in water) can be offered in small amounts as a treat or as part of a balanced home-cooked diet.
How do I prepare my pregnant dog?
How to Prepare for Your Dog's PregnancyVet Care. You want to get your furry family member a checkup before pregnancy. ... Check the Food. ... Parasites. ... Understand puppy development stages. ... Whelping Box. ... Watch for Changes. ... The Big Day.
How much food should a Dachshund eat a day?
Consult the back of your dog food bag for the proper weight-based amount for your dog. My adult Dachshunds usually eat 1/2 cup twice a day. (According to Google: 1/2 cup is equivalent to 64 grams 2.25 oz). Spreading out your dog's daily meals can help them digest smaller amounts and reduce anal gland issues.
How many puppies do mini dachshunds have in their first litter?
Dachshund Litter Size Dachshunds usually have 1 to 6 puppies per litter, but can have more depending on the size of the dog.
How do you take care of a pregnant Dachshund?
Owners should feed pregnant dachshunds about 50 percent more than before conceiving. Pregnant dachshunds need quality food that is high in protein. During the middle of the pregnancy the dog's abdomen may grow but there will likely be very little weight gain.
What should my dog look like at 6 weeks pregnant?
During weeks 5 and 6, the foetus starts to look more like a puppy, with toes, nails and whiskers. The foetus's organs have completely developed, along with its skin colour. At the six-week mark, the foetus has sex organs and begins to develop into either a male or a female.
What happens to a dachshund when pregnant?
As the dachshund pregnancy progresses, your doxie will gain more weight and her belly will be significantly swollen. In the late stages of pregnancy, your dog will be less active, and moving around may difficult for her.
How accurate is a dachshund's pregnancy test?
this hormone is released by the placental tissue during pregnancy. However, this test is only accurate if your dachshund is at least 30 days into the pregnancy.
What happens if a dachshund licks its vulva?
You might notice that your dachshund will lick her vulva repeatedly and experience contractions a few hours before delivery. Once the whelping starts you will start to see a gray water sac coming out of your dog’s vulva, your dog will probably bite on the water sac to break it.
How long does it take for a dachshund to lose appetite?
Another sign is loss of appetite, around 24 hours before whelping your dachshund will lose interest in food.
How long does a dog's pregnancy last?
A typical dog pregnancy will last around 63 to 65 days. However, birthing can also occur as early as 53 days and as late as 71 days. However, if your dachshund shows no signs of labor after day 65, check with the vet to make sure there is no problem. The number of puppies in a litter will depend on the type of dog.
How many puppies does a dachshund have?
The number of puppies in a litter will depend on the type of dog. Small breeds like Dachshund usually produce between 3 to 4 pup pies per litter but can produce up to 6. When a dachshund is pregnant, one of the first signs you will notice is that her nipples will get enlarged.
How long does the dachshund cycle last?
Estrus: This stage lasts from 3 to 11 days. At this stage, the female’s vulva will be enlarged and the discharge will decrease and lighten in color. This is when your female dachshund will be receptive to males and the mating can occur. Diestrus: This is the final stage of the cycle, it occurs around day 14.
How Long Are Dachshunds Pregnant For?
Typically, Dachshunds have a gestation period of between 63 days and 65 days. However, she can give birth at 53 days or even at 71 days.
Dachshund Pregnancy Stages
The following is practical information about your Dachshund pregnancy on a week-by-week basis:
When Can Dachshunds Get Pregnant?
Dachshunds can get pregnant during their first cycle, but it is not advisable. It is recommended that you wait until your Dachshund is fully mature to breed her, which is her second full heat cycle.
How To Confirm That Your Dachshund Is Pregnant
The following are the three ways that you can confirm the pregnancy of your Dachshund:
Dachshund Stages of Labor
You will notice that your Dachshund is going into labor when her uterus contracts and the cervix dilates. This can happen for between one to thirteen hours. When the contraction gets stronger, there will be a fluid that comes out of her vagina.
Caring For a Pregnant Dachshund
When your Dachshund becomes pregnant, it is crucial that she is healthy by providing her with a well-balanced diet and enough exercise.
How Do Dachshunds Give Birth?
With natural birth, you should be aware of the warning signs that your Dachshund is ready to give birth.
How long is a dachshund pregnant?
Dachshunds pregnancy will normally last somewhere about 63 -65 days, but in some cases the length of the pregnancy can be up to 70 days. In this article we are going to give you some practical information concerning your Dachshund pregnancy on a week by week basis.
When do dachshunds ovulate?
The ovulation takes place at the end of the cycle. In a few days after the mating the sperm reaches the eggs and fertilization occurs.
How to confirm a dog's pregnancy?
Visit your vet doctor one more time to confirm the pregnancy by means of ultrasound examination. At this stage, a vet is able to already determine how many puppies your dog has, as well as to detect some possible abnormalities.
Is it normal for a dachshund to have fluid discharge?
Warning! You may also notice clear fluid discharges from the vulva of the dog. Don’t be afraid – it is normal. Your Dachshund’s nutritional requirements will change, as she now requires a diet with higher energy, protein and mineral content.
Do dachshunds have nipples?
The fertilized eggs make their way to the uterus for implantation. The nipples of your Dachshund are growing bigger . There may be some changes in behavior: pregnant dogs usually tend to be more affectionate. This is a high time to visit a vet doctor for a checkup and exam.
How hot does a dachshund have to be before labor?
Many, but not all, dachshunds will experience a temperature decrease of about 1 degree from the normal temperature of 101 to 102.5 just a few hours before labor begins. The dachshund will experience some contractions and may repeated lick at her vulva in ...
When do dachshunds gain weight?
During the last week of pregnancy most dachshunds begin to gain weight rapidly. Their swollen bellies may make the dogs less active. Dachshunds carrying larger litters may deliver their puppies earlier than the normal length of gestation.
How long does it take for a dachshund to have an x-ray?
The veterinarian may schedule an X-ray at 60 days to determine the number of fetuses the dachshund is carrying. Owners must vigilantly watch their dachshunds during the last week of pregnancy to look for impending signs of labor. Dachshunds will show diminished interest in food about 24 hours prior to whelping.
How long does it take for a dachshund to have a clear discharge?
Middle Pregnancy. By about a month after breeding a dachshund will have a clear vaginal discharge that only occurs in pregnancy. After about 6 weeks, the dachshund's nutritional requirements will increase. Owners should feed pregnant dachshunds about 50 percent more than before conceiving.
How long does it take for a puppy to be delivered?
Once the water breaks, delivery usually occurs within an hour. The first puppy is the most challenging to deliver and may cause the dog to moan and strain to deliver her puppy. Owners should call their veterinarian every 15 minutes to give updates on the mother's and puppies' progress.
Do dachshunds gain weight while pregnant?
Pregnant dachshunds need quality food that is high in protein. During the middle of the pregnancy the dog's abdomen may grow but there will likely be very little weight gain. Only dachshunds carrying a large litter will experience early weight gain. Advertisement.
Can a dachshund have pregnancy?
Even with these early signs, breeders and dachshund owners should take their dog to the veterinarian to officially diagnose pregnancy. Dachshunds occasionally experience a false pregnancy in which the dog will exhibit swollen mammary glands, weight gain and sometimes even have morning sickness. Veterinarians can definitively diagnose pregnancy ...
What is the best food for a dachshund?
The Solid Gold Wee Bit with Bison Small-Breed Dog Food recipe is an excellent choice for your Dachshund because it is uniquely formulated to meet the nutritional needs of small-breed dogs. This formula is also unique because it contains bison as the main ingredient with ocean fish meal as a supplementary protein.
How much weight can a Dachshund gain?
For a dog breed that only weighs about 20 to 30 pounds, a gain of just a few extra pounds can be significant. Obesity can not only increase your Dachshund’s risk for serious health problems, but it puts extra strain on his bones and joints which could lead to musculoskeletal problems later in life.
What is a Dachshund known for?
Easily one of the most recognizable dog breeds out there, the Dachshund is known for his short, stubby legs and his elongated body. These little dogs are also sometimes affectionately called “wiener dogs” and they are friendly, active, and fun-loving little dogs. WHY 20,000+ READERS HAVE TRUSTED US FOR YEARS.
What is Doxie dog food?
It is a unique dog food option that offers a tasty meal your Doxie will enjoy . It is made with whole, fresh ingredients that are processed minimally as a way to retain as many nutrients as possible.
Why are dachshunds fussy?
It might be that they have been used with having a lot of choices for their food. Since they have been used to having a lot of different choices of food, they have different types of dog foods to choose from.
What is Earthborn holistic dog food?
Earthborn Holistic Dog Food uses high-quality, well-balanced nutrition for the overall health of your dog. Using vegetables, proteins, fruits, and other necessary nutrients, this brand prepares its special formulas for dogs.
How big is a dachshund?
The miniature Dachshund stands 5 to 6 inches tall and weighs no more than 11 pounds at maturity while the standard stands 8 to 9 inches tall and weighs 16 to 32 pounds.
Key points when feeding a pregnant dog
Feeding your pregnant dog the best, healthiest food is important during all stages of pregnancy, it begins before she is mated all the way through to when she is nursing her little pups.
What to feed a pregnant dog
We strongly believe the best food for a pregnant dog is a healthy, raw dog food diet, our veterinarian-approved food, with 8 different flavours (variety is key to a healthy life), contains all of the essential, natural nutrients and vitamins required to fully support your pregnant dog throughout pregnancy and beyond, helping to support their immune system, digestion and keep their bones and joints healthy..
How much to feed your pregnant dog
For the first 4 weeks of pregnancy, a female on a raw diet doesn’t have to change her normal feeding routine, unless there are underlying health issues. During weeks 3 and 4, your bitch may suffer from little nausea and may lose her appetite, like morning sickness in humans.
How much to feed a nursing dog
What to feed a pregnant dog? – Puppies need their mother to be well fed and watered to ensure they get all required nutrients
Additional resources to help
It’s all very exciting when we’ve some puppy buns in the oven, but it can also be rather overwhelming for newbies. Get informed and enjoy the journey. For extra help with your pregnant dog, there is Ian Billinghurst’s “Give your dog a bone” and many books to find on pregnancy, whelping to weaning, and bringing up your happy healthy mum and babies.
What is the best dry food for a dachshund?
Wellness’ Complete Health adult dog dry food is easily one of the best options currently on the market. This mix includes both chicken and whitefish, which are excellent sources of protein and fatty acids, as well as additional elements that support joint health and all-day energy. Active dachshunds have a lot of energy, so both of those are especially useful for this breed.
What is the nutritional needs of a dachshund?
5 Key Nutritional Needs of a Dachshund Diet. As a breed predisposed to obesity and back problems, dachshunds require special nutritional care for optimal health throughout their life. This isn’t particularly difficult to achieve, but there are a few. Water: Water is approximately 65% of your dachshund’s weight, ...
How many calories should a dachshund eat?
Calorie Needs: Active dachshunds need about 900 calories of food per day. Adult dachshunds that aren’t especially active need about 575 calories. Older members of this species need about 475 calories since they tend to move less.
Where do carbs come from in dog food?
Carbs in dog food usually come from vegetable and grain sources. Vitamins: Finally, just like humans, dachshunds require vitamins in their food.
How much dry food should I feed my puppy?
1 3/4 cups dry food. Note: The proper amount of dry food may vary by brand and specific dietary needs. Consult the instructions on your food for more information. Puppies should eat at least four times throughout the day, preferably in as close to even intervals as you can manage.
What is the best food for a puppy?
Blend of chicken, pork, fish meal, and whole eggs that are highly-digestible with essential amino acids that build muscle. High palatability and maximum digestibility ensures your pup gets all of the nutritional benefits this healthy food has to offer.
Is it bad for a dachshund to have stairs?
Unfortunately, their low, elongated back can present problems in some household environments. Too many stairs are bad for dachshunds, and obesity is particularly bad for them , given their relatively weak spines.
Reviewed best dog foods for pregnant dogs
Formulated with fresh ingredients that are safe enough for human consumption. Nom Nom only incorporates real ingredients into their recipes and they omit any artificial flavors.
Diet & Nutrition for a Lactating Dog
Lactating dogs need more energy than pregnant and whelping dogs, with their highest energy requirement reaching up to 2-4 times more calories than that of a normal adult dog. And they usually reach this peak at around 3 to 5 weeks after giving birth.
Best Food For Pregnant Dog – The Takeaway
Pregnancy is a special, yet stressful and delicate moment for mother dogs and their unborn puppies.
What should I feed my pregnant dog?
Just like the third trimester of pregnancy, feeding during lactation is best accomplished using a highly digestible, high quality puppy food. Free-choice feeding during the first 3-4 weeks of lactation, unless she only has one or two puppies, provides many advantages.
What should a pregnant dog not eat?
Raw diets are not recommended for pregnant or lactating dogs. A high quality maintenance dog food is usually sufficient for most dogs and you should avoid feeding your dog additional vitamins or supplements unless your veterinarian advises otherwise.
Can I give my pregnant dog milk?
Feeding your dog a puppy formula from week 6 of her pregnancy will help her to stay strong, and also passes nutrients to their puppies through the milk. Your dog should be introduced to the new food in stages, to allow their tummy time to adjust.
Is it normal for pregnant dogs to not eat?
Pregnant dogs lose their appetite for three to 10 days during their third week of pregnancy. It is normal for pregnant dogs to stop eating or eat significantly less, in the 24 to 48 hours before their puppies are born.

Week 1
Week 2
- The fertilized eggs make their way to the uterus for implantation. The nipples of your Dachshund are growing bigger. There may be some changes in behavior: pregnant dogs usually tend to be more affectionate. This is a high time to visit a vet doctor for a checkup and exam.
Week 3
- Implantation has taken place and the fetuses begin to develop. Your Dachshund may show some mild mood swings, changes in the appetite; the development in the breast tissue is taking place.
Week 4
- Visit your vet doctor one more time to confirm the pregnancy by means of ultrasound examination. At this stage, a vet is able to already determine how many puppies your dog has, as well as to detect some possible abnormalities. As fetuses begin to grow and develop, your dog’s appetite will likely increase. Actually, now your dog should eat 50% more...
Week 5
- During this week the fetuses weight will increase by 75%. They develop their sex organs and actually begin to look like puppies. The belly of your dog is big and swollen.It is a high time to feed your Dachshund more frequent but with smaller portions.
Week 6
- Future puppies are big and this fact will cause some discomfort for the mother. She may vomit occasionally due to the extra pressure against her stomach. At this point, you should care for your dog to have no stress at all. Your Dachshund’s nutritional requirements will change, as she now requires a diet with higher energy, protein and mineral content.
Week 7
- Worms may be very dangerous for the puppies, so, ask your vet about the best product to deworm your dog. Your dog is very anxious, feeling it is soon the time to give birth to the puppies.Start to prepare a whelping box/place.
Week 8
- Milk begins to flow from the nipples. Start to prepare for whelping. You can ask your vet for extra ultrasound examination to count the exact number of the puppies.
Week 9
- The pups are ready for birth. Your dog may appear restless. During this week your dog will whelp. Make sure, you are prepared for it and have made a safe and cozy whelping place for your dog where she will feel secure and calm. You may notice your dog licking at her vulva and maybe have some moderate cramping. Abdominal contractions may become more frequent. Whelping can l…