Pet food package copy should give this information. The bitch's food intake during the first six or seven weeks of pregnancy is not much higher than for maintenance. However, during the last two weeks or three weeks of gestation, food intake will normally increase by 50 percent. Remember, maintain the bitch in good body condition, with food intake increased or decreased accordingly. It is normally not necessary to add any supplements to a nutritionally complete and balanced diet during gestation and lactation.
Milk production is one of the most nutritionally demanding stages of a bitch's life.
A good quality nutritionally complete and balanced commercial dog food will supply all the nutrition needed during this stressful time, but at times the bitch may need to be encouraged to eat more food. If a dry food is being fed, moisten with water. This will normally increase food intake. Twice a day feeding is also recommended during lactation. This amount will improve the palatabilty of the diet which usually results in increased food intake, without altering the nutritional balance of the diet.