What are the best foods to feed a nursing dog?

Understanding the Nutritional Needs of Nursing Dogs
Feeding a nursing dog is a critical aspect of ensuring both her health and the well-being of her puppies. During this demanding period, a mother dog requires a diet that is not only rich in calories but also packed with essential nutrients to support milk production and overall vitality.
Key Nutritional Components
High-Quality Protein: Nursing dogs should consume a diet that is approximately 30% high-quality animal protein. This is vital for muscle maintenance and milk production. Foods such as puppy formulas, which are specifically designed to meet the heightened nutritional needs of lactating mothers, are often recommended.
Healthy Fats: Alongside protein, a nursing dog’s diet should include about 20% fat. Healthy fats are crucial for energy, especially as nursing can be physically taxing. Sources of healthy fats include fish oil and chicken fat, which not only provide energy but also contribute to the overall health of the puppies.
Calcium and Phosphorus: These minerals are essential for both the mother and her puppies. A diet rich in calcium helps prevent conditions like eclampsia, a serious complication that can arise from low calcium levels in nursing dogs. Foods such as dairy products, leafy greens, and certain supplements can help meet these needs.
Carbohydrates: While protein and fat are critical, carbohydrates also play a role in providing energy. Whole grains, vegetables, and fruits can be included in the diet to ensure a balanced intake of nutrients.
Recommended Foods
1. Puppy Food: One of the best options for nursing dogs is high-quality puppy food. These formulas are designed to be calorie-dense and nutrient-rich, making them ideal for a mother dog who needs to support her puppies.
2. Raw Diets: Some owners opt for a natural diet, which can include raw meats, organs, and bones. Raw liver and kidneys are particularly beneficial, as they provide essential vitamins and minerals. However, it’s crucial to ensure that any raw food is safe and properly handled.
3. Home-Cooked Meals: For those who prefer to prepare meals at home, a combination of cooked chicken, rice, and vegetables can be nutritious. However, it’s important to avoid cooked bones, as they can splinter and pose a risk to both the mother and her puppies.
4. Hydration: Adequate hydration is just as important as nutrition. Providing fresh water at all times is essential, and some owners find that offering chicken broth can encourage a nursing dog to drink more.
Conclusion
In summary, feeding a nursing dog requires careful consideration of her increased nutritional needs. A diet rich in high-quality protein, healthy fats, calcium, and carbohydrates is essential for her health and the growth of her puppies. Whether opting for commercial puppy food, a raw diet, or home-cooked meals, ensuring that the mother dog receives balanced nutrition will help her thrive during this demanding time.

What is the best homemade food for nursing dogs?

Ingredients for homemade food for nursing dog:

• Lean Protein Source: Choose one or a combination of lean proteins such as cooked chicken (boneless and skinless), turkey, lean beef, or fish.
• Carbohydrates: Cooked brown rice, sweet potatoes, or quinoa provide energy.

How can I increase my lactating dog’s milk?

Offering lots of fluids especially lukewarm or cold water will help increase milk production. If she does have some milk production, let the pups nurse often on the mother to help increase the milk flow before supplementing with the formula.

Is peanut butter good for nursing dogs?

Generally speaking, any peanut butter that doesn’t contain xylitol, chocolate, or cacao/cocoa should be fine for a dog. It can be a good source of protein and healthy fat — in moderation, of course.

Are boiled eggs good for nursing dogs?

Yes, they are. In fact, a boiled egg is a great meal for a dog. Shell included. However, always be sure to break the egg up a little first to ensure it’s not a choking hazard.

Is oatmeal good for nursing dogs?

Oats are acidic and negligibly allergenic, which is why they are tolerated best by most dogs. Oats help keep cholesterol levels low. Oats promote constant milk production in lactating dogs.

Are scrambled eggs good for nursing dogs?

Eggs are nutritious for both people and dogs. They can be tasty treats or a hearty breakfast, whether they’re hard-boiled, poached, scrambled, or over easy. A cooked entire egg or yolk can be good for your dog, unless your pet has a pre-existing health condition like acute pancreatitis or diabetes.

Are eggshells good for nursing dogs?

Eggshells are a good source of calcium, which is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth in dogs. Calcium is particularly important for growing puppies and pregnant or lactating dogs. You can supplement your dog’s calcium intake by feeding him eggshells.

Is chicken broth good for nursing dogs?

If the lactating dog doesn’t want to drink plain water, try giving her chicken broth or other flavored drinks that are safe for her consumption.

What should nursing dog food have?

A nursing pup needs to consume anywhere from 1.5–6 times more calories than usual to meet their puppies’ demands, depending on the size of their litter. But the quality of food they eat is equally important, as a poor diet can affect the mother dog’s health and impact the development and well-being of the pups.

What is the best thing to feed a nursing mother dog?

Besides the puppy chow, it is always nice to give a nursing mother some extra food – chicken and plain rice, any simple meat or fish (boneless) with some rice or oatmeal or sweet potato. Plain yogurt or kefir, an egg, a can of sardines, some liver, warm chicken broth (or beef). Just no salty or sweet things.