Are you expecting your first French Bulldog litter? Congratulations! Preparing in advance is crucial for a smooth process. This guide will walk you through the essential steps you need to take.
Understanding the French Bulldog Pregnancy
French Bulldogs’ pregnancies typically last between 58-68 days. Signs of pregnancy include:
- Increased appetite
- Weight gain
- Behavioral changes
Regular vet check-ups are essential to monitor the health of the mother and puppies.
Preparing the Whelping Box
Your Frenchie will need a comfortable place to give birth, often referred to as a ‘whelping box’. The box should:
- Be spacious enough for your dog and her puppies
- Have low sides for easy access
- Be lined with clean, comfortable bedding
One of the easiest whelping box setups is using a kid’s pool. Once they grow out of it you will need a cage setup.
Assembling a Puppy Kit
Prepare a kit with essentials for when the puppies arrive:
- Clean towels and blankets
- Heating pad for keeping puppies warm
- A scale for weighing the puppies
- Bulb syringe for clearing puppies’ airways
Prepare for Feeding Problems
On occasion, puppies fail to latch, eat and gain weight. Without intervention, this can lead to a bad outcome. You should be prepared with an appropriate feeding nipple, bottle, and formula to ensure success. You will also want to have a tube feeder available.
Feeding the Mother
Your Frenchie’s nutritional needs will increase during pregnancy. Consult with your vet about adjusting her diet accordingly to ensure she’s well-nourished for nursing.
Preparing for Possible Complications
French Bulldogs often need C-sections due to the puppies’ large heads. Stay in close contact with your vet throughout the pregnancy and have an emergency plan in place.
Know the Lineage
It is best to have deep knowledge of both the dam and the stud so you can better prepare for any known issues and if whelping without a C-section is likely. If it recommended to do this before breeding to ensure there are no possible genetic concerns, or history with cleft puppies.
Caring for the Newborn Puppies
Newborn care includes:
- Keeping them warm and well-fed
- Regular vet check-ups
- Socialization once they’re old enough
Other Items You May Want
Each litter presents its own set of circumstances. However, here is a list of other items you may find helpful to have:
- Steam Cleaner / Carpet Cleaner
- Pet Friendly Cleaners
- Puppy Travel Bags & Bins
- Towels / Rags
- Hand Sanitizer
- Cotton Swabs
- Pee-Pads
- Clavamox (presciption antibiotic)
Final Thoughts
Having your first litter of French Bulldog puppies is an exciting experience. By taking these steps to prepare, you can ensure the best care for the mother and her new puppies. As always, work closely with your vet to keep everyone healthy and thriving.
