Expert: Jannie Balliett - 10/14/2010

Question
My boxer is due next Saturday the 23rd of October, had her at vet yesterday, he said start checking her temp next Firday. He said not to worry about her eating, don't force her, my question is she still refuses to eat, he said puppies are small but he isn't sure...never has time to answer my questions..

Answer
Is the 23rd the 63rd day? Sometimes they come 56-65 days-- but 63 days is the good time; not too early and not too late.

If either occurs before and beyond those days, get to a vet.

If she is not eating, which is natural (she will pee and poop more though) put whole, plain yogurt (no flavors) on her dog food. And, speaking of dog food, switch her to puppy food now and all through nursing until pups are 100% weaned. She needs the high protein during this time.

I think the yogurt will help her eat and its good for her.

Also, buy vanilla ice cream ( nothing else) and during labor in between contracts and pups, offer her a small spoon or bowl (spoon some in) of vanilla ice cream. This will keep her blood sugars up during labor which can get really low during this time!

I hope you know how to care for newborn puppies. If not, email me: jannieballiett @yahoo.com