Quick Answer: How Often To Feed Nursing Mothers Dogs

How frequently you should feed a nursing mother dog depends on the stage of lactation. During the initial 1-3 weeks of nursing, it’s advisable to transition from her usual two daily meals to three meals. As she reaches the fourth week (when her milk production is at its highest), it’s recommended to provide her with four meals per day. It’s crucial to adjust the portion sizes of each meal according to her changing nutritional needs as she continues to nurse her puppies. This gradual increase in meal frequency and portion sizes is essential for ensuring the mother dog receives the necessary nutrients to support both her own health and the health of her growing litter.

Determining the appropriate amount of food to feed a nursing dog with puppies depends on the size of the litter. In general, nursing dogs should consume two to three times their usual food intake to adequately nourish their growing pups. It’s crucial to ensure that the nursing mother has access to ample water, as this helps in producing the necessary milk volume to feed the entire litter. Throughout the entire pregnancy and nursing period, you might observe fluctuations in your dog’s appetite for food. This variation in appetite is entirely normal and should be managed by adjusting their diet as needed to meet their increased nutritional requirements during this critical time.