Labrador Retrievers: Care for the Pregnant Dog

By Richard Cussons
Labrador Retrievers need proper care in order for them live longer and healthier. The same thing it goes for pregnant Labrador Retrievers. In fact, they even need special care since a lot of changes is happening as the puppies are growing inside her.

A dog's gestation period generally lasts for 60 to 65 days starting from the day she was first bred. During this period, it is important to keep you dog in healthy condition to prepare her give birth to a healthy litter.

Nutrition. A pregnant dog can eat her normal diet during the first 30 days of her pregnancy as long as the food is of high quality. Do not add vitamin supplements to her diet since high quality foods have plenty of nutrients. At around six weeks of pregnancy, gradually increase her food by about 25 to 50%. Start switching her normal food to high quality puppy food. Feeding her smaller meals more frequently throughout the day is necessary, however, the foods should be easy to digest. Ask your veterinarian for advice regarding this matter.

Exercise. Take her for regular walks to prevent obesity that can create blood-sugar irregularities and delivery problems. Walking will keep her in shape for delivery but avoid obedience training or other activities that may cause her stress. Even if your pregnant Lab enjoys agility, frisbee or flyball, these activities should be avoided during pregnancy. But stop taking her out during the last three weeks of gestation to protect her from diseases.

Whelping Box. A couple of weeks before her expected delivery, prepare a birthing or whelping box. The box should be wide and deep enough to accommodate puppies four to six weeks of age. Line the box with newspapers, blankets, towels or old clothes. Secure enough clean towels so that each puppy will have its own clean towel during the birthing process. Introduce and get her used to the box about one week before the expected delivery.

Body Temperature. A normal dog's temperature should be 101-102 degrees Fahrenheit, however, a pregnant dog's temperature will drop a few degrees about 24 hours before whelping.

Vaccinations. Pregnant dogs should not be given vaccines because some vaccines may cause abortion. Vaccines should be given before the breeding.

The time has come when you see your dog becomes nervous, restless, shivers, loses her appetite, vomits and has contractions. The vet must examine the puppies shortly after their birth.

About the author:
Richard Cussons is a writer with tons of knowledge on Labrador Retrievers. Discover effective Labrador training tips at labradorsavvy.com.

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Is Your Boxer Dog Suffering From Inhalant Allergy?

By Richard Cussons
One common problem affecting dogs, even your well cared Boxer dog, is skin related problem. Inhalant allergy is common in dogs as much as it is common in people. But unlike people who react to allergens through respiratory symptoms, dogs react through skin problems. In fact, pets almost always show allergic reactions through their skin, meaning, itchy skin may be due to food allergy, insect bite allergy or inhalant allergy. It is therefore a must to identify the underlying cause of itchiness before taking any measure to treat it.

Atopy in dogs is usually caused by the very same substances as those which cause reactions in people. These substances include pollens from trees, pollens from Bermuda grass, dust, mites and molds. If your Boxer dog shows seasonal itchiness, then it is caused by pollens. If the itchiness is present throughout the year, this maybe because of mold or dust.

Affected dog will display itchiness and scratching in every parts of the body, more severe on feet, flanks, groin and armpits. Biting, chewing at feet and constant licking can also be seen. Hair loss, skin lesions and inflammation may follow. Skin becomes thickened, greasy and has a strong odor. Ear flaps may become red and hot and may later lead to chronic ear infections. Constant chewing or scratching may give way for hot spots to develop and because of much licking, the dog's hair color turns reddish to orange.

Atopy can be treated through various options. Symptomatic therapy (cool baths with or without Epsom salts or medicated shampoos) is frequently done however, this therapy provides only temporary relief. Corticosteroids are also used to reduce inflammation thus reduce itchy skin, however, they also affect every organ in the body. Side effects include increased thirst and appetite, increased need to urinate, inflammation of the pancreas, lethargy and termination of pregnancy. Consult your vet before giving these drugs to your dog. Antihistamines can be given as alternative to steroids. These drugs are far less harmful than steroids but not as reliable. Topical such as dips, soaks, shampoos and ointments are also used to reduce itching.

Atopy cannot be totally prevented since no one can really prevent airborne particles and allergens from messing your dear Boxer dog. However, if you know which substances your dog is allergic to, it is best to avoid those. Reduce molds by using dehumidifier or by placing activated charcoal on top of the exposed dirt in your house plants. Use air cleaner to control dusts and pollens.

You cannot stop allergies from affecting your dog but there is something you can do to help prevent the problem- be careful in choosing your potential pet. Before breeding, a reputable breeder screens breeding stocks for possible diseases these animals are carrying in their genes. Ask your breeder about it.

About the author:
Richard Cussons writes articles about Boxer dog. Visit boxersavvy.com and learn more about Boxer dog training.