The bedding you chose for your litters and puppies has tremendous implications for their near- and long-term health.

Recommendations

We recommend bedding that:

• is comfortable for the dam, keeps her with her puppies more. It also reduces the risk of your bitch developing sores, rub spots or elbow callouses.
• provides traction for puppies from birth on, decreases the risk of orthopedic issues in adulthood and improves the pups’ strength, coordination and muscle development.
• wicks moisture away from its surface, keeps pups drier, cleaner and warmer.
• does not fold or wrinkle easily, increases the pups’ safety because they are less likely to get caught in a fold. Pups that are out of sight of their mother are more likely to get stepped on or injured.
• is easily laundered, makes your life easier and doesn’t damage your washer and dryer.
• is white, enables you to monitor your pups and dam more closely so you can respond quickly to infections or diarrhea.
• is long lasting, enables you to get the most for your investment.

One thing you should never use is newspaper or newsprint. Newsprint is slippery so does not provide essential traction for puppies. It also remains wet, once dampened so it increases the risk of infections.