Dog Pregnancy, Labor & Puppies

On this episode of Off Leash with Dr. Pete, Molly and Dr. Pete use Labor Day as an excuse to talk about a different kind of labor: what actually goes into breeding a dog, preparing for birth, and caring for a new litter of puppies. Dr. Pete starts with what should happen long before puppies arrive—making sure both parents are healthy and avoiding breeding dogs with hereditary problems that could be passed on. They also discuss pregnancy nutrition, why adding too much calcium too early can cause problems, and when it may make sense to transition a pregnant dog onto puppy food. Once labor begins, Dr. Pete explains why giving the mother a quiet, low-stress environment matters, what owners should watch for during delivery, and why newborn puppies should be monitored closely for nursing and weight gain. They also cover warning signs such as constant crying, cleft palates, and complications that can arise when a mother is producing milk for a larger litter. The conversation also gets into C-sections in breeds like French Bulldogs and Bulldogs, puppy health checks, vaccinations, AKC paperwork, and why responsible breeding involves far more than simply pairing two dogs and hoping for a healthy litter. Whether you’re considering breeding your dog, expecting a litter, or thinking about buying a puppy from a breeder, this episode gives you a better idea of the planning, veterinary care, and responsibility involved. Thanks so much for listening, and be sure to subscribe and review!