Extreme weight-loss in your dog after giving birth

It is common for dogs to show a small degree of weight and hair loss after giving birth but if it is a severe amount of hair and weight loss, then it may be worth taking her to the vet, as she may require immediate hydration or application of electrolyte solutions. It is also worth checking her discharge which should have significantly reduced by now, should not contain any blood and should be odour free. If any of these indicators are not as they should be your dog requires immediate veterinary care. Your dog may have a large litter to feed, so ensure that she is eating and drinking enough! She should be eating around 50% more food during the first week after giving birth and then should double her food intake (and by week three should treble it). This is best done by increasing the number of meals rather than increasing the quantity at each sitting. She also needs lots of water to allow her to produce the milk.