What Should Be in a Dog Whelping Box?

Preparing for the arrival of a new litter of puppies is an exciting time for any dog owner. One crucial aspect of this process is creating a comfortable and safe environment for the mother and her newborns. A dog whelping box serves as the ideal space for the mother to give birth and care for her puppies during their early weeks. Here are some essential items that should be in a dog whelping box:

1. Adequate size: The whelping box should be spacious enough for the mother to move around comfortably, while also providing enough room for the puppies to nurse and grow.

2. Soft bedding: Choose soft, washable bedding such as blankets or towels that will keep the mother and puppies warm and cozy. Make sure to have spare bedding available for quick changes when accidents happen.

3. Heat source: Newborn puppies cannot regulate their body temperature, so it is crucial to provide a heat source in the whelping box. A heating pad or a heat lamp can be used to maintain a constant temperature around 85°F (29.5°C).

4. Low sides: The sides of the whelping box should be low enough for the mother to easily enter and exit, yet high enough to prevent the puppies from escaping as they grow and become more mobile.

5. Easy cleaning: The whelping box should have a removable bottom or a liner that can be easily cleaned and sanitized. This will help maintain a clean and hygienic environment for the mother and puppies.

6. Adequate ventilation: Proper ventilation is essential to ensure fresh air circulation in the whelping box. However, be cautious not to create any drafts that can make the puppies cold.

7. Whelping supplies: Keep a kit of essential supplies within reach, including clean towels, clean scissors for cutting umbilical cords, puppy-safe disinfectant, and a digital scale to monitor the puppies’ weight.

FAQs:

1. How big should a dog whelping box be?
The whelping box should be large enough for the mother to move around comfortably and for the puppies to nurse and grow. A size of 4ft x 4ft is generally suitable for medium-sized breeds.

2. Can I use blankets for bedding?
Yes, blankets or towels make excellent bedding choices as they are soft and washable. Ensure you have spare bedding available for quick changes.

3. Do I need a heat source in the whelping box?
Yes, newborn puppies are unable to regulate their body temperature, so a heat source is necessary to maintain a constant temperature of around 85°F (29.5°C) in the whelping box.

4. How often should I clean the whelping box?
It is important to maintain a clean and hygienic environment for the mother and puppies. Clean the whelping box daily, removing any soiled bedding and disinfecting as needed.

5. Can the puppies escape from the whelping box?
The sides of the whelping box should be low enough for the mother to enter and exit easily but high enough to contain the puppies as they grow and become more mobile.

6. How do I cut the umbilical cords?
Use clean scissors to cut the umbilical cord about an inch away from the puppy’s belly. Tie the cord with sterilized thread if bleeding occurs.

7. How often should I weigh the puppies?
Weigh the puppies daily using a digital scale to monitor their weight gain. This helps ensure they are receiving enough milk from the mother.