When should I start feeding my pregnant dog more food?

Calorie increases are generally not needed until around weeks 5–6 of gestation, when foetal growth accelerates. Before that point, maintaining a high-quality adult diet is appropriate for most healthy dogs. From week 6, gradually increase daily intake by roughly 10% per week, aiming for 25–50% above baseline by the time of whelping.

Do I need to give my pregnant dog calcium supplements?

Generally no — and calcium supplementation during pregnancy is actually discouraged in most cases because excess calcium intake during gestation can impair the body's calcium-regulating mechanisms and increase the risk of eclampsia (milk fever) after whelping. A nutritionally complete puppy or growth-formulated food provides appropriate calcium without supplementation.

Can I keep my dog on adult food throughout pregnancy?

Some high-quality adult foods labelled as nutritionally adequate for all life stages (including reproduction) can be appropriate throughout pregnancy, but transitioning to a dedicated puppy or growth formula around week 5–6 is more commonly recommended because these foods are specifically formulated for the elevated energy and protein needs of late gestation and lactation. Check the AAFCO statement on the bag — it should cover 'growth and reproduction' or 'all life stages.'

How do I know if my nursing dog is getting enough calories?

A nursing dam should maintain a stable body weight and body condition through the lactation period, with puppies gaining weight consistently (daily weighing of puppies in the first two weeks is a useful check). If the dam is losing significant weight or condition, or puppies are not gaining weight, increase calorie intake and consult your vet.

When should I stop feeding puppy food after my dog gives birth?

Continue the growth/puppy formula throughout the entire lactation period — typically 7–8 weeks post-whelping, until the puppies are fully weaned. As weaning progresses and milk demand drops, reduce the dam's food gradually back toward maintenance levels over 1–2 weeks, then transition back to a maintenance adult formula.

Dog Pregnancy Nutrition | PetCalculator

A pregnant dog's nutritional needs change significantly across gestation and into lactation. Here is what to feed, when to increase calories, and what to watch for at each stage.