How big should a whelping pen be?
For medium-size dog breeds, considered a whelping box that is about 28 to 34 inches long by 28 to 34 inches deep. Large dog breeds need whelping boxes that measure about 42 to 45 inches long by 34 to 40 inches deep. Extra-large breeds need boxes at least 48 to 58 inches long by 40 to 48 inches deep.
How do you set up a whelping area?
Put the whelping box in a room that is isolated from other dogs. Many breeders set it up in their own bedrooms for the first three weeks. A door and/or gate should be used to keep other dogs away. An ex-pen around the whelping box provides an extra layer of safety.
What can I use to make a whelping box?
To make a whelping box out of a kiddie pool, find a pool size where your dog can lay out comfortably with some extra room for the puppies. You can line it with a round whelping pad, old towels, newspaper or even covers made specifically for kiddie pools used for whelping.
Can I use a crate as a whelping box?
If your dog is already crate- or kennel-trained and finds security in her existing den, this often makes a great whelping box. Line the crate with blankets or towels to give the mother and pups good traction in the crate.
How do you keep a puppy whelping box clean?
Remember to use “free and clear” detergent to keep your puppies healthy. Clean the bottom with a chemical-free disinfectant cleanser. Spray a bit of chemical-free disinfectant cleanser on the bottom and sides of your whelping box, and use a paper towel to wipe this up.
Can a whelping box be too big?
Many considerations go into setting up the ideal whelping box for your breed of dog. Importantly, the size should be appropriate — large enough for a dam to stretch out with some room to spare — as a box that is too large can cause her great distress.
How long should puppies stay in whelping box?
Once or twice a day the puppies should be handled by a human and they should be weighed daily. During the first 3 weeks most dams like to be in a warm secluded area, not in the family living area. Pups remain contently in their whelping box for the first 20 days of their life.
How long is a dog in labor before pushing?
In fact, it can be quite fascinating to watch a dog’s instincts take over as they whelp and nurse their young. When the pregnant dog is ready to deliver her first puppy, she will typically strain, or push, for about 10-30 minutes before the puppy emerges.
Should you put blankets in a whelping box?
You can use towels, sheets, and blankets for bedding your puppies when they start moving here and there. Make sure that the bedding material should possess body-heat retention level. The bedding should be such that it can absorb body fluids and urine properly. It is essential to keep the bedding dry.