The nutrition of a pregnant and lactating bitch begins immediately after birth. This is the time when nutritional habits are developed that help the bitch successfully conceive and gestate. During the gestation, the bitch must receive enough energy, protein and minerals, especially calcium and phosphorus. The bitch must also receive enough folic acid. During lactation, the bitch needs enough water to produce milk. We also have to make sure that the bitch eats enough, as her energy needs double. An important mineral that the dog needs during lactation is calcium, as it is necessary for milk production. The first milk is critical for the offspring as it provides passive immunity and must be ingested as soon as possible after the birth. We used NRC standards to verify the nutritional requirements of a special dog food for a bitch and her offspring. Farmina Team Breeder Puppy Lamb & Blueberry Pumpkin dry dog food is nutritionally sufficient for a pregnant bitch. Mothers Pudding, a home-prepared meal and an excellent alternative to dry dog food, has sufficient energy and protein for a nursing bitch. The offspring were fed the same Farmina dry food in an amount appropriate for their age. It was nutritionally sufficient for them as well. In addition to the dry food, the offspring can be given various cooked meals, raw meat and other treats so that they can get used to different tastes before they arrive in their new home.
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