Diet for a Healthy Pregnancy

Pregnant bitches can and should be fed a raw diet.  Real food is the best source for all the vitamins, nutrients and minerals that they need for a successful pregnancy and healthy puppies. 

The diet must contain good protein sources and a wide variety of them.  Raw food is one of the best ways to achieve this goal.  Fresh food is best – it is completely usable and they need all the nutrition that they can get.  Commercial foods often rely on synthetic sources for their nutrients which are far inferior to whole food sources on which a raw diet is based.    

Protein, Omega 3 fatty acids, B vitamins, vitamin C, folic acid, vitamin D, vitamin E, trace minerals, iron and calcium are all important in maintaining a successful pregnancy and birth as well as healthy puppies.  Most are readily available in most raw diets based upon variety and balance over time.  B vitamins as well as vitamin D are provided for by meats, eggs and many vegetables.  Omega 3’s come from the addition of salmon or fish body oil to the diet.  Vitamin C can be supplemented by the addition of powdered or liquid Ester C.  North Atlantic Sea Kelp provides any trace minerals that may be lacking.  Vitamin E, while generally supplemented in gel caps, is available in veggies and nuts as well.  Calcium, protein and fat are all adequately supplied by bones, meat and organs without extra supplementation. 

Remember as you feed your pregnant bitch that the amount of food that she requires will expand along with her belly.  This remains true after the bitch whelps – feeding puppies takes a lot out of a dog and expect that they will need to eat 2-3 times their normal intake while nursing.

Feeding a raw diet with lots of variety will likely cover all necessary nutrients needed by your dog but use the check list above to make sure that you are providing all that is necessary for a healthy mom and pups.  Remember that nutrients from whole food sources are best but don’t be afraid to supplement if you are unsure as to whether or not you are providing a large enough variety of foods.  You will be rewarded with a happy healthy bitch and fat and sassy puppies!