***Sign up now for Dr. Greer’s upcoming exclusive 1-hour webinar “Dr. Greer’s 5 P’s to a Successful Dog Pregnancy” to learn more about this topic. Register Here for the webinar on April 23rd.***
Want to boost fertility and improve pregnancy outcomes in your female dogs? In this Vet Minute you’ll learn Dr. Marty Greer’s top 5 expert tips – from prenatal care and progesterone testing to whelping prep and C-section planning – to ensure healthier litters and successful canine pregnancies.
How to Improve Fertility and Pregnancy Success in Female Dogs
If you’re looking to boost fertility and improve pregnancy outcomes in female dogs here are five essential steps – the “Five P’s”:
1. Prenatal Care for Female Dogs
Start by prioritizing prenatal care. Ensure your dog receives high-quality vitamins such as Breeder’s Edge Oxy Mate Prenatal, nutritional supplements, and a balanced diet. Maintaining an ideal body weight is crucial for optimal fertility and healthy pregnancies.
2. Progesterone Testing for Breeding Dogs
Don’t underestimate the value of progesterone testing. This vital tool helps you determine the best time to breed your dog and provides a reliable due date. It’s especially helpful when managing high-risk pregnancies or scheduling planned C-sections.
3. Prenatal Puppy Count X-Rays
Around day 55 of gestation, schedule a puppy count X-ray. Knowing the exact number of puppies helps you prepare for labor and delivery.
4. Preparation
Be ready! Prepare your whelping supplies in advance, fuel your vehicle, and organize your tools. Proper preparation can make a significant difference when labor begins. The Revival Animal Health Whelping Kit is a free tool to help make sure you have everything you need for whelping.
5. Planning for C-Sections or Large Litters
If the X-ray shows a small or oversized litter, plan for a possible C-section ahead of time. Being proactive prevents stressful, last-minute emergencies and ensures the safety of both mom and puppies.
For more expert advice on canine fertility, dog breeding success, and pregnancy management, give us a call at 800.786.4751.
***Register Here for Dr. Greer’s exclusive 1-hour free webinar in April to learn more about this topic.***
LEARN MORE:
Calcium and Food for Pregnant Dogs: FAQs
Food and calcium supplements are critical to the health of both a pregnant dog and her pups. Learn what to feed a pregnant dog, and when to safely give calcium for pregnant dogs.
Cat and Dog Supplements During Pregnancy
What supplements should I give my dog during pregnancy? Dr. Greer explains the use of supplements with pregnant dogs and cats.
Dr. Greer’s Dog Breeding, Pregnancy and Whelping Plan
Plan your dog breeding, pregnancy and whelping with help from Dr. Greer's easy-to-follow dog breeding guide.
3 Ways to Help Your Dog Prepare for Whelping
What three things should you do to help your dog prepare for whelping? Learn about prenatal vitamins for dogs, deworming, and calcium gel during whelping.
Written by: Marty Greer, DVM
Director of Veterinary Services
Marty Greer, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, has 40+ years’ experience in veterinary medicine, with special interests in canine reproduction and pediatrics. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University in 1981. She’s served as Revival’s Director of Veterinary Services since 2019. In 2023, Dr. Greer was named the Westminster Kennel Club Veterinarian of the Year.