At DogingtonPost, we understand that dog pregnancy nutrition is a critical aspect of canine care. Proper nutrition during pregnancy ensures the health of both the mother and her developing puppies. This guide will explore the essential nutritional needs of pregnant dogs, recommended diets, and important supplements. We’ll provide practical tips to help you support your furry friend through this exciting journey. What Pregnant Dogs Need to Eat Calorie Requirements for Growing Puppies Pregnant dogs have specific nutritional needs that change throughout their gestation period. Your dog’s body prepares to nurture growing puppies, and her calorie and nutrient requirements increase significantly. During the first five weeks of pregnancy, your dog’s calorie needs remain relatively stable. However, from week six onwards, her energy requirements increase dramatically. Research indicates that after 4 weeks, caloric needs increase to 200–220 kcal ME/kg BW. When bottle feeding, 8–12 meals per day (every 2–3 h) are usually required during the 1st week. Protein for Fetal Development Protein plays a key role in fetal development. AAFCO recommends that the minimum crude protein concentration of dry matter should be 22.5% for growth and reproduction. High-quality protein sources like chicken, fish, or eggs should feature prominently in your pregnant dog’s diet. Fatty Acids for Brain and Eye Health Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, are vital for puppy brain and eye development. The Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association reports that puppies born to mothers supplemented with DHA during pregnancy showed improved trainability and visual performance. You should add fish oil to your dog’s diet (try 20-55 mg of DHA per kg of body weight daily). Essential Vitamins and Minerals A balanced diet is essential for pregnant dogs. Calcium and phosphorus are particularly important for skeletal development. The National Research Council recommends a calcium to phosphorus ratio of 1:1 to 2:1 in pregnant dog diets. However, you should avoid over-supplementing calcium, as it can lead to eclampsia post-whelping. Folic acid is another important nutrient. Veterinary studies suggest that supplementing with 400 mcg to 1 mg of folic acid daily, starting a month before breeding, can reduce the risk of cleft palate in puppies. Tailored Nutrition Plans Every pregnant dog has unique needs. You should always consult with your veterinarian to create a tailored nutrition plan that meets your dog’s specific requirements throughout her pregnancy. Your vet can help you adjust your dog’s diet as her pregnancy progresses, ensuring she receives the right balance of nutrients at each stage. What Should Pregnant Dogs Eat? High-Quality Commercial Dog Foods Many veterinarians recommend switching to puppy food during the last three weeks of pregnancy. A highly digestible, high quality puppy/growth/development formulation is generally recommended during the third trimester, and multiple small meals may be beneficial. Puppy formulas contain higher calories, protein, and essential nutrients, which meet the increased nutritional demands of pregnancy. Select foods with at least 28% protein and 17% fat, as recommended by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). Royal Canin offers a specialized formula called HT42d, designed for pregnant dogs. This food is specially formulated to meet the nutritional needs of breeding females from the 1st day of heat to the 42nd day of gestation. It contains essential nutrients like folic acid and DHA (crucial for fetal development). Carefully Planned Homemade Options Some dog owners prefer to prepare homemade meals. If you choose this option, consult a veterinary nutritionist to ensure a balanced diet. A typical homemade diet for pregnant dogs might include: Lean meats (chicken, turkey, lean beef) Cooked eggs Whole grains (brown rice or oatmeal) Vegetables (carrots or sweet potatoes) Fish oil for omega-3 fatty acids Avoid raw diets during pregnancy, as they increase the risk of foodborne illnesses that could harm the puppies. Feeding Schedule and Portion Sizes For the first five weeks of pregnancy, maintain your dog’s regular feeding schedule. From week six onwards, increase food intake gradually. During the last three weeks, your dog may need 25-50% more food than usual. Offer smaller, more frequent meals instead of two large ones. This accommodates your dog’s decreased stomach capacity as the puppies grow. Some veterinarians suggest free-choice feeding during the last week of pregnancy and throughout lactation. Monitoring Body Condition Monitor your dog’s body condition closely. She should gain weight gradually, with most of the weight gain occurring in the last third of pregnancy. Excessive weight gain can lead to complications during delivery. Hydration is Key Ensure your pregnant dog has constant access to fresh, clean water. Proper hydration supports her increased blood volume and helps prevent constipation (a common issue in pregnant dogs). As we move into the next section, we’ll explore the role of supplements and additional care in supporting your pregnant dog’s nutrition. These elements can further enhance your dog’s health and the development of her puppies. Enhancing Your Dog’s Pregnancy Diet Prenatal Vitamins for Dogs Many veterinarians recommend prenatal vitamins for pregnant dogs. These supplements contain a blend of vitamins and minerals that support fetal development and maternal health. Folic acid stands out as particularly important. It has been shown to reduce midline defects in many species including humans and dogs. Not all dogs need prenatal vitamins. If your dog eats a high-quality, balanced diet formulated for pregnancy, additional supplementation might be unnecessary. Always consult your veterinarian before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet. Omega-3 Fatty Acids Omega-3 fatty acids, especially DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), play a key role in puppy brain and eye development. Evidence shows that DHA dietary supplementation during the pre- and post-natal period can support brain and vision development. To add omega-3s to your dog’s diet, consider fish oil. Use a high-quality fish oil supplement specifically formulated for dogs (human supplements may contain harmful additives). Calcium Supplementation Calcium supports skeletal development in puppies and milk production in nursing mothers. However, calcium supplementation during pregnancy remains a controversial topic among veterinarians. Too much calcium intake during pregnancy can interfere with the body’s natural calcium regulation mechanisms, potentially leading to eclampsia (milk fever) after birth. Current recommendations advise against calcium supplementation during pregnancy unless specifically prescribed by your veterinarian. Instead, provide a balanced diet that meets AAFCO standards for growth and reproduction. These diets typically contain the appropriate calcium-to-phosphorus ratio (between 1:1 and 2:1) needed for healthy fetal development. After whelping, your veterinarian may recommend calcium supplementation to support milk production. However, only do this under professional guidance. Hydration Proper hydration supports increased blood volume and helps prevent constipation (a common issue in pregnant dogs). Ensure your pregnant dog has constant access to fresh, clean water. Monitor her water intake and encourage her to drink regularly. Monitoring and Adjusting Your dog’s nutritional needs will change throughout her pregnancy. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian will help you adjust her diet as needed. Monitor her body condition closely. She should gain weight gradually, with most of the weight gain occurring in the last third of pregnancy. Excessive weight gain can lead to complications during delivery. Final Thoughts Dog pregnancy nutrition requires careful planning and monitoring. High-quality commercial dog foods or veterinarian-approved homemade diets provide the necessary nutrients for fetal development. Regular veterinary check-ups help adjust the nutrition plan as pregnancy progresses, ensuring optimal health for both mother and puppies. Postpartum nutrition demands even more energy to support milk production and recovery. A nutrient-dense diet remains essential during lactation. Proper hydration and appropriate supplementation (under veterinary guidance) further support the mother’s health during this critical period. We at DogingtonPost strive to provide the best information for your furry family members. Our comprehensive resources on dog health and nutrition can guide you through every stage of your dog’s life. Prioritizing proper nutrition during your dog’s pregnancy sets the stage for healthy puppies and a smooth transition into motherhood.

Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting adventure, but it comes with its share of challenges. At DogingtonPost, we understand that learning how to care for a puppy dog can be overwhelming for first-time owners. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you navigate the early stages of puppy parenthood. From preparing your home to mastering training basics, we’ll cover everything you need to know to give your furry friend the best start in life. How to Puppy-Proof Your Home Secure Your Living Areas Start by examining your home from a puppy’s perspective. Get down on all fours and look for potential hazards. Remove or secure loose wires, small objects, and toxic plants. For safer alternatives, consider dog-safe plants such as haworthia (also known as the zebra plant), Christmas cactus, Tiger Jaws, and wax plants. Install childproof latches on low cabinets and drawers. These devices prevent your curious pup from accessing cleaning supplies, medications, or other dangerous items. Secure trash cans with locking lids to avoid messy and potentially harmful scavenging. Stock Up on Puppy Essentials Before your new family member arrives, gather essential supplies. A sturdy collar and leash are necessities for walks and training. Select an adjustable collar that allows for growth, and choose a 4-6 foot leash for optimal control during walks. Food and water bowls are obvious needs, but consider elevated feeders to promote better posture and digestion (especially for larger breeds). For toys, variety is key. Provide chew toys, puzzle toys, and soft plush toys to keep your puppy entertained and mentally stimulated. The American Kennel Club suggests rotating toys to maintain your puppy’s interest and prevent boredom-related destructive behavior. Create a Cozy Sleeping Space Every puppy needs a designated sleeping area. A crate can serve as a safe haven and aid in house training. Pick a crate that’s large enough for your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Line it with a soft, washable bed and consider covering it partially to create a den-like atmosphere. Position the crate in a quiet area of your home, away from high-traffic zones. This will help your puppy feel secure and get the rest they need. Puppies sleep up to 18-20 hours a day, so a comfortable sleeping space is essential for their growth and development. Establish a Safe Outdoor Area If you have a yard, make sure it’s secure for your puppy. Check your fence for any gaps or weak spots that a small puppy might squeeze through. Remove any plants that could be toxic if ingested (consult a comprehensive list of dog-safe plants). Create a designated potty area to help with house training. Prepare for Emergencies Keep important phone numbers (your veterinarian, emergency vet clinic, and poison control) in an easily accessible place. Put together a basic first aid kit for pets, including items like gauze, non-stick bandages, and hydrogen peroxide (always consult your vet before administering any first aid). With these preparations complete, you’re ready to welcome your new puppy into a safe and nurturing environment. The next step is to ensure your puppy receives proper nutrition, which is critical for their growth and development. What Should Puppies Eat? Selecting the Best Puppy Food Puppies need food specifically formulated for their rapid growth. The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) recommends puppy food should contain at least 22.5% protein on a dry matter basis. Choose high-quality brands that list a specific meat (like chicken or lamb) as the first ingredient. Avoid foods with artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Your veterinarian can provide recommendations based on your puppy’s breed and size. Creating a Feeding Schedule Puppies require more frequent meals than adult dogs due to their small stomachs and high energy needs. Follow this schedule: Under 3 months old: Four meals a day 3 to 6 months: Three meals a day After 6 months: Two meals a day Set specific meal times and maintain consistency. This routine helps with digestion and house training. Remove uneaten food after about 20 minutes to prevent grazing. Mastering Portion Control Overfeeding can lead to obesity, which strains developing joints and organs. Follow the feeding guidelines on your puppy food package as a starting point. Adjust portions based on your puppy’s body condition and activity level. Try the rib test to check if you’re feeding the right amount. You should feel your puppy’s ribs without seeing them. If you can’t feel the ribs, reduce portions slightly. If the ribs are very prominent, increase food intake. Monitoring Growth and Weight Monitor your puppy’s weight regularly. Most puppies double their birth weight by 1 week old and continue to gain 5-10% of their body weight daily (growth rates can vary by breed). Consult your vet for specific guidelines. Transitioning to Adult Food As your puppy grows, their nutritional needs change. Prepare to adjust portion sizes and eventually switch to adult dog food. Transitioning to adult food typically occurs around 12-14 months of age for medium-sized breeds, while it can be earlier for small breeds and later for large breeds. With proper nutrition established, the next step in puppy care involves training and socialization. These elements are essential for developing a well-behaved and confident adult dog. How to Train and Socialize Your Puppy House Training Basics House training is often the first major challenge for new puppy owners. Start by establishing a consistent routine. Take your puppy outside every 1-2 hours, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. Choose a specific spot in your yard and use a command like “go potty” to create an association. When your puppy eliminates outside, immediately offer praise and a small treat. This positive reinforcement encourages them to repeat the behavior. If accidents happen indoors, avoid punishment. Simply clean the area thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove odors that might attract your puppy back to the same spot. Teaching Basic Commands Start with simple commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Keep training sessions short (around 5-10 minutes), several times a day. Use high-value treats and lots of praise to reward your puppy for following commands. For the “sit” command, hold a treat close to your puppy’s nose, then slowly move it up and back over their head. As their head tilts back to follow the treat, their bottom will naturally lower to the ground. As soon as they sit, say “yes!” and give them the treat. Early Socialization Socialization is essential to raise a well-adjusted dog. The socialization period for puppies includes the time when commercially-bred puppies are in the breeding facility, as homing happens from 8 weeks onwards. During this time, expose your puppy to a variety of people, animals, and environments. Organize puppy playdates with vaccinated dogs, invite friends over to meet your puppy, and take short car rides to new places. Always ensure these experiences are positive and not overwhelming for your puppy. Positive Reinforcement Techniques Positive reinforcement is claimed to be more humane and equally or more effective than aversive or punishment-based methods. This method involves rewarding desired behaviors to increase their frequency. Use treats, praise, and playtime as rewards. Avoid punishment-based methods, which can lead to fear and anxiety. If your puppy exhibits unwanted behavior, redirect their attention to an appropriate activity or toy. Consistency in Training Consistency is key in puppy training. Everyone in the household should use the same commands and reward system to avoid confusing your puppy. With patience and persistence, you’ll soon have a well-mannered canine companion. Final Thoughts Caring for a puppy requires dedication, patience, and love. Learning how to care for a puppy dog involves several key aspects, from puppy-proofing your home to providing proper nutrition and establishing a consistent training routine. Your puppy will thrive with your unwavering support and guidance, even though progress may come at different rates for each unique pup. Responsible dog ownership extends beyond these initial stages. You must continue to educate yourself on your puppy’s changing needs as they grow. Regular veterinary check-ups, ongoing training, and plenty of love and attention will help your puppy develop into a well-adjusted adult dog. At DogingtonPost, we support you throughout your dog ownership journey. Our platform offers resources, from the latest news in canine care to expert advice on health and nutrition. We encourage you to explore our site for ongoing guidance and inspiration as you navigate the joys (and challenges) of raising your furry friend.

Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting adventure. At DogingtonPost, we understand the joys and challenges of puppy dog care. This guide will walk you through essential aspects of caring for your furry friend, from nutrition to training and health. By following these tips, you’ll set the foundation for a happy, healthy relationship with your new canine companion. What Should Your Puppy Eat? Choosing the Best Puppy Food Your puppy needs food specifically formulated for rapid growth. Select puppy-specific foods that meet AAFCO standards. These foods contain higher levels of protein, fat, and calories than adult dog food. A study in the Journal of Nutrition found that puppies fed a diet with 30% protein had better muscle development compared to those fed 18% protein diets. Check the label for high-quality protein sources (like chicken, lamb, or fish) as the first ingredient. Setting Up a Feeding Schedule Puppies have small stomachs but high energy needs. Most veterinarians recommend feeding puppies three to four times a day until they’re about six months old. After that, you can transition to twice-daily feedings. A typical feeding schedule might look like this: 8 AM: Breakfast 12 PM: Lunch 4 PM: Dinner 8 PM: Final meal (for puppies under 6 months) Getting Portions Right Overfeeding can lead to obesity. To avoid this, follow the feeding guidelines on your puppy food package, but adjust based on your puppy’s individual needs. A good rule of thumb: feed your puppy about 20 grams of food per pound of body weight daily, split across their meals. However, this can vary based on breed and activity level. Monitor your puppy’s body condition and consult your vet if you’re unsure. The Importance of Fresh Water Always provide clean, fresh water for your puppy. Change the water at least twice daily and wash the bowl regularly to prevent bacterial growth. Some puppies may drink more after eating dry food, so keep an eye on their water intake. A study in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that dogs who drank more water had a lower risk of urinary tract infections. Encourage your puppy to drink by placing water bowls in easily accessible locations around your home. Every puppy is unique. What works for one might not work for another. Always consult with your veterinarian to create the best nutrition plan for your furry friend. Now that we’ve covered nutrition, let’s move on to another crucial aspect of puppy care: training and socialization. Training Your Puppy: Effective Methods for Success House Training Basics House training is often the first challenge new puppy owners face. Consistency and positive reinforcement are key. Take your puppy out frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. When they eliminate outside, praise them enthusiastically and offer a small treat. This reinforces the desired behavior. If accidents happen indoors, clean them thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to remove odors that might attract your puppy back to the same spot. Never punish your puppy for accidents; this can create anxiety around elimination. Teaching Basic Commands Start with simple commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Keep training sessions short (around 5-10 minutes), several times a day. Puppies have short attention spans, so brief, frequent sessions are more effective than long ones. Use high-value treats and lots of praise. When teaching “sit,” hold a treat close to your puppy’s nose, then slowly move it up and back. As their head tilts back to follow the treat, their bottom will naturally lower. As soon as they sit, say “yes!” and give the treat. The Power of Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement is the most effective and humane way to train your puppy. Training methods based on the use of rewards are claimed to be more humane and equally or more effective than aversive or mixed methods. Clicker training is a popular form of positive reinforcement. The clicker marks the exact moment your puppy performs the desired behavior, making it clear what they’re being rewarded for. Pair the click with a treat every time to reinforce the behavior. Socializing Your Puppy Proper socialization is critical between 3 and 16 weeks of age. Puppy socialization practices play a large role in the development of well-adjusted adult dogs that display few undesirable behaviors. Puppy classes are an excellent way to socialize your puppy in a controlled environment. They also provide an opportunity for you to learn proper training techniques from professionals. Addressing Common Behavioral Issues Puppies often exhibit behaviors like chewing, nipping, and jumping. These are normal but need to be addressed early. Provide appropriate chew toys (to redirect chewing), teach gentle play (to prevent nipping), and reward calm behavior (to discourage jumping). Every puppy learns at their own pace. Patience and consistency are essential. Celebrate small victories along the way. With time and effort, you’ll build a strong foundation for a well-behaved adult dog. Now that we’ve covered training basics, let’s move on to another vital aspect of puppy care: health and wellness. Proper healthcare is just as important as training in raising a happy, healthy dog. How to Keep Your Puppy Healthy and Happy Puppy Vaccinations: A Vital Shield Vaccinations protect your puppy against serious diseases. After the primary puppy series of vaccinations, a booster should be administered within 1 year. Thereafter, interval boosters are recommended every 3 years. Your vet might also suggest non-core vaccines based on your puppy’s lifestyle and local disease risks. Follow the vaccination schedule strictly. Missed or delayed shots can leave your puppy vulnerable to potentially fatal diseases. Always keep a record of your puppy’s vaccinations and bring it to each vet visit. Regular Vet Check-ups: Your Puppy’s Health Compass Schedule your puppy’s first vet visit within a week of bringing them home. During this visit, your vet will perform a thorough physical exam, check for parasites, and discuss preventive care. Try to schedule monthly check-ups until your puppy is about 4 months old, then every 3-4 months until they reach adulthood. These regular visits allow your vet to monitor growth, administer vaccines, and catch any health issues early. Grooming: More Than Just Looking Good Grooming is a vital part of your puppy’s health routine. Start grooming sessions early to get your puppy comfortable with being handled. Brush your puppy’s coat at least 2-3 times a week. This helps distribute natural oils, removes loose fur, and gives you a chance to check for any skin issues or parasites. For long-haired breeds, daily brushing might be necessary to prevent matting. Introduce tooth brushing gradually. Try to brush your puppy’s teeth at least 2-3 times a week. Use a dog-specific toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Regular dental care can prevent periodontal disease. Studies show that 80-90% of dogs over the age of 3 have some component of periodontal disease. Exercise: Balancing Activity and Rest Puppies have boundless energy, but too much exercise can harm their developing joints. A good rule of thumb is five minutes of exercise per month of age, up to twice daily (e.g., a four-month-old puppy would get about 20 minutes of exercise, twice a day). Mix up the types of exercise. Short walks, play sessions, and training exercises all count. Always supervise outdoor activities and ensure your puppy has access to fresh water. Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, training sessions, and socialization all contribute to your puppy’s overall well-being. Final Thoughts Caring for a new puppy requires dedication, patience, and love. Puppy dog care encompasses many responsibilities, from proper nutrition to effective training techniques. We at DogingtonPost believe that consistency in your approach will yield the best results. The effort you invest in your puppy’s early months will strengthen your bond and create a harmonious household. A well-socialized, properly trained, and healthy puppy often grows into a confident, obedient, and content adult dog. This journey of puppy dog care transforms both the pet and the owner. We encourage you to embrace the challenges and cherish the moments as you build an incredible bond with your new canine companion. We commit to supporting you through every stage of your dog’s life. Our comprehensive resources cover everything from puppy care to senior dog health (ensuring you have the knowledge and tools to provide the best care). The journey of raising a puppy offers countless opportunities for growth and joy.

Socialist Utopia

The liberal media shows which groups they favor by the positive terms they use on their behalf. “Protections” is often a good example. Liberals will use the term “abortion protections,” which is odd considering you’re protecting the killing of unborn babies. Now it’s happening with illegal immigrants. Check this Associated Press headline, Mean Old Trump hates protections: Supreme Court lets Trump end legal protections for 500,000 migrants, exposing more to deportation Criminal justice reporter Lindsay Whitehurst didn't say "illegal" immigrants were the subject: WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Friday again cleared the way for the Trump administration to strip temporary legal protections from hundreds of thousands of immigrants for now, pushing the total number of people who could be newly exposed to deportation to nearly 1 million. The justices lifted a lower-court order that kept humanitarian parole protections in place for more than 500,000 migrants from four countries: Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua and Venezuela. There were five uses of the P-word, six if you count the headline. (It's seven when you see another AP headline in "Related Stories"!) The Justice Department argues that the protections for people fleeing turmoil in their home countries were always meant to be temporary... [Ketanji Brown] Jackson echoed what U.S. District Judge Indira Talwani wrote in ruling that ending the legal protections early would leave people with a stark choice: flee the country or risk losing everything....  The Supreme Court’s order is not a final ruling, but it means the protections will not be in place while the case proceeds. AP also repeatedly called it "humanitarian parole," suggesting Trump opposes humanitarian policies -- with no imagination that not every illegal immigrant is a humanitarian:  The high court’s decision could ultimately affect another ruling from Talwani this week in favor of other people covered by humanitarian parole policies, including Afghans, Ukrainians and children from Central America. Joe Biden used humanitarian parole more than any other president, employing a special presidential authority in effect since 1952. The Trump administration’s decision was the first-ever mass revocation of humanitarian parole, attorneys for the migrants said. They called the Trump administration’s moves “the largest mass illegalization event in modern American history.” And there it is! A version of the word "illegal" only comes up once -- when Trump somehow creates "mass illegalization," not Biden!  The Trump-trashing AP reporter gets bias bonus points for reminding readers of "They're Eating the Pets" from last year:  Republican President Donald Trump promised on the campaign trail to deport millions of people, and in office has sought to dismantle Biden administration policies that expanded paths for migrants to live legally in the U.S. In a 2024 presidential debate, Trump amplified false rumors that Haitian immigrants in Ohio, including those with legal status under the humanitarian parole program, were abducting and eating pets, court documents note. As you scroll through an AP story, you get their lying pop-up message begging for donations: “Now more than ever, we remain committed to covering the news quickly, accurately and without bias…If you believe in the importance of a free and fair press, please consider supporting AP. Your donation advances our mission to provide fact-based, nonpartisan information to the world.”

The Last Great Dream: How Bohemians Became Hippies and Created the Sixties is from the longtime publicist of the Grateful Dead. The post How ’60s Hippies Came to Be: Dennis McNally Talks About His New Book appeared first on Best Classic Bands.

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Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Maryland Gov. Wes Moore at a Friday night fish fry in South Carolina sought to fire up Democrats and sounded like national candidates for the 2028 presidential election in doing so, reports the New York Times.Walz, the 2024 vice presidential...

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said his Omani counterpart presented elements of a U.S. proposal for a nuclear deal between Tehran and Washington during a short visit to Tehran on Saturday.