To change the bedding, you can try to get the help of another person. You or the other person can hold the dog while the other changes the bedding. If you don’t have help, move the mother and puppies to one side of the whelping box, then lift up the empty side and immediately place the new bedding. Once that is down, move the mother and puppies to the clean side and do the same for the other side. Doing this helps reduce the risk of the mother dog and the puppies getting an infection.
She may not shed a lot of lochia, but it can still leave a mess on the bed or lead to infection for the dog and the litter. Keep an eye on the bedding as you check on the puppies. If you notice a mess on the bedding, change it.
Use a high-power blow dryer, to blow out their loose undercoat. This keeps the hair at that facility instead of your home. When sponging off your dog, you should use warm water and wipe the area gently.
You should do this for at least two weeks. However, some dogs will shed small amounts for up to six weeks.
The discharge the dog sheds should not have an odor.
If you notice any blood in the discharge, not just a normal reddish color, contact the vet. This is a symptom of an infection of the uterus or an infected retained placenta. Tell your vet, “My dog’s discharge isn’t normal. It has an odor, it is very thick, it’s black, or it’s full of blood. I think she needs to be checked out. "
This can help prevent hair from getting all over your home.
You may want to give your dog puppy food. Puppy food can provide her the nutrients she needs for recovering after the birth and while lactating. Talk to your vet about the proper diet for your dog. They should advise you on what to feed your nursing dog, but if she’s shedding, they can suggest some food that may help.
Tell your vet, “My dog is shedding a lot of fur. I’m worried something is wrong. I think she should be checked out just to make sure she is healthy. "
