Diet for Finicky Bitch
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Good Dog is on a mission to educate the public, support dog breeders, and promote canine health so we can give our dogs the world they deserve.
Good Dog is on a mission to educate the public, support dog breeders, and promote canine health so we can give our dogs the world they deserve.
Good Dog is on a mission to educate the public, support dog breeders, and promote canine health so we can give our dogs the world they deserve.
Q: What would you feed a finicky bitch?
A: If your bitch is not eating, first check her temperature to be sure it is normal. If it is elevated, see your vet.
Between 20-28 days of pregnancy, I have found that some bitches may go off their food a bit. Sometimes this is because of a build-up of stomach acid, similar to having a pregnant woman with morning sickness. I would suggest many small meals to keep the stomach acid down. I remember eating saltine crackers throughout the day when I was pregnant, so perhaps using small bits of bland food as treats can help too. Talk to your vet about using Pepcid AC (famotidine) since it has been shown to help too, and it is considered safe during pregnancy.
Bitches that are carrying large litters may struggle to eat enough food to meet both the dam, and the puppy nutritional requirements in the second half of pregnancy and lactation. Looking for a higher calorie diet, ideally one that still meets reproductive criteria (link to the question above) so she doesn’t have to eat as much can help. Feed her many small meals during the day since her stomach capacity is limited due to the large uterus.
It can also help to warm your bitch’s food to her body temperature, around 100°F, to bring out the aromas. If that doesn’t work, try removing any supplements and just feed her dog food. Gradually add back in the supplements, if possible. Usually starting with the probiotic, then the vitamins, and finally the fish oil.
If within a day she still isn’t eating, try adding to or replacing her food with other options for a short period. You may have to play around. Some bitches prefer bland food while others want more pungent options. Here are additions or temporary replacements that have worked for other breeders:
- Fresh Pet refrigerated dog food
- Canned dog food for dogs that usually eat dry
- Raw or cooked frozen dog food
- Canned or frozen green tripe (Tripett)
- Eggs (raw, cooked, scrambled, boiled)
- Fresh, canned or bottled fish (tuna, salmon, sardines, herring)
- Canned cat food
- Human baby food (meat or poultry)
- Chicken hearts, livers or gizzards
- Rotisserie chicken
- Chicken breast or boneless thighs
- Beef—steak or ground
- Bacon, ham, liverwurst
- Dog treats
- Rice (cooked, white is better than brown)
- Oatmeal (cooked, NOT instant)
- Bread, pasta
