FOSHAN PHARMA CO., LTD. , https://www.forepharm.com
Winter puppy has tricks
Autumn is the prime time for dogs to go into heat, mate, and give birth. The average gestation period for a female dog is around 60 days. Puppies are often born in the cold winter months, which can be dangerous for them due to their weak immune systems, underdeveloped digestive abilities, and inability to regulate body temperature effectively. This makes it crucial to provide proper care during the winter to ensure their survival and healthy development.
First, maintaining a balanced temperature is essential. The kennel should be kept between 13-15°C during winter. To achieve this, you can:
1. Seal windows with plastic sheets and hang curtains on doors to prevent cold air from entering. You can also create a small shelter-like structure using plastic sheets for young puppies, and make sure all cracks in the walls are properly sealed.
2. Use infrared lamps to warm up the walls, and provide thick bedding for the dogs. Regularly clean the floor and keep it dry to prevent dampness and disease.
3. On warmer days, allow the dogs to bask in the sun to improve their health and immunity. Encourage moderate exercise to build strength and resistance.
Second, managing young dogs requires careful attention. Here are some key practices:
1. "Two Maintenances and Three Transitions": "Two Maintenances" means keeping the same housing and feeding routine. "Three Transitions" refer to gradually changing feed, living systems, and environment. For example, after weaning, continue with the same type of food for about a week before slowly introducing puppy-specific feed. Transitioning the feeding schedule should be done gradually, ensuring regular meals and avoiding overfeeding. Environmental changes should also be gradual—keep the puppies in the same area and avoid mixing them with other groups until they adapt.
2. "Three-Point Positioning" involves setting fixed areas for drinking water, sleeping, and waste. Place food bowls in the same spot consistently. The first sleeping area is important for the puppy’s sense of security. On the first night, confine the puppy to that spot, then gradually allow more freedom. If the puppy urinates or defecates elsewhere, collect the waste and place it in a designated area. Over time, the puppy will learn to use that spot.
3. Castration and group management: Male dogs not intended for breeding should be castrated at around two months old, preferably on a sunny, windless day. Bitches should not be castrated if they are nearing slaughter age, as it has little impact on their growth. Grouping dogs by size, strength, and breed helps reduce workload for handlers and promotes better growth. A group of 8–10 dogs per pen is usually ideal.
4. Deworming and disease prevention: Winter is a high-risk season for infectious diseases like canine distemper and parvovirus. Regular deworming, cleaning of feeding utensils, and disinfection of the kennel are essential. Deworming should begin at 20–25 days old and continue monthly. After deworming, dispose of feces and insects properly to avoid contamination. Wash feeding bowls daily and sterilize them weekly by boiling or soaking in disinfectants like benzalkonium chloride or caustic soda.
Next Article
Winter puppy has tricks
Prev Article
Cultivation and Irrigation of Muskmelon