Caring for Your Pregnant Rottweiler Before and After Birth

Understanding Rottweiler Pregnancy

The Rottweiler is a popular large breed dog prized as a companion, guardian and working dog. As with all dogs, female Rottweilers go through a pregnancy lasting about 9 weeks or 63 days from conception to delivery.

Signs of Pregnancy

Determining if your Rottweiler is pregnant early on can be difficult. Signs include:

• Decreased appetite in the first few weeks
• Increased appetite later on
• Weight gain
• Enlarged nipples
• Fatigue and increased sleeping
• Mild abdominal distention

However, the most definitive way to diagnose pregnancy is through ultrasound by your vet.

Stages of Pregnancy

The Rottweiler pregnancy can be divided into 3 trimesters, each about 3 weeks long:

First Trimester (Week 1-3)

Ovulation and fertilization occurs, the embryos implant into the uterus. Early signs like appetite changes and lethargy appear.

Second Trimester (Week 4-6)

This stage has the most rapid fetal development. The embryos develop into fetuses with organs, bones, nerves, and coat. Abdominal swelling is noticeable.

Third Trimester (Week 7-9)

The fetuses gain significant weight and size. Milk production begins and appetite increases. Close monitoring is required as birth approaches.

Caring for a Pregnant Rottweiler

Proper care of your pregnant Rottweiler is vital for her health and that of the puppies. Important tips include:

Nutrition

Feed a high-quality puppy food for the extra nutrition needed. Avoid supplements without veterinary approval. Increase food gradually as appetite increases. Small, frequent meals may help with morning sickness.

Exercise

Exercise helps stay fit but avoid overexertion. Short, low impact walks are ideal over high intensity or prolonged exercise. Swimming is an excellent option. Discuss specifics with your vet.

Grooming

Gently brush her coat 1-2 times per week. Clean her face and ears daily. Clip nails if needed. Check for fleas, ticks or skin problems. Scale back on baths.

Veterinary Care

Schedule regular veterinary checkups to monitor mom and puppies. Vaccines and heartworm prevention may need adjustment. Discuss supplements, scan for birth defects and prepare a birthing/nursing plan.

Comfort

Provide a whelping box lined with bedding in a quiet room a week before birth expected. Ensure she has clean water and can relieve herself easily outside. Give soothing massages if she allows it.

Socialization

Gradually limit interaction with other pets, children and strangers as instincts to protect pups kick in. Avoid events with crowds or stress. Spend quiet time bonding with her.

Signs of Labor

Call your vet immediately if you notice:

• Restlessness
• Panting
• Lack of appetite
• Vaginal discharge
• Straining or attempting to give birth

This indicates labor has likely begun!

The Rottweiler Birthing Process

Here's what to expect as your Rottweiler gives birth naturally:

Stage 1 Labor

Early labor may last 6-12 hours as the cervix dilates and contractions begin. She may seem restless, pant, pace and dig. Offer support but avoid intervention.

Stage 2 Labor

Hard contractions push pups out one by one every 30-60 minutes. This stage lasts 12-24 hours. Pups are born encased in a sac that the mother breaks open. She will sever the umbilical cord and eat the afterbirth.

Stage 3 Labor

Mild contractions deliver the placentas over 1-4 hours. The mother may strain but should pass all placentas equal to number of puppies born. Call your vet if any materials are retained.

Most Rottweiler litters contain 8-12 puppies, though as few as 3 or as many as 15 may be born.

Caring for Newborn Puppies

Ensure the puppies are nursing and staying warm. Weigh them regularly to confirm they are gaining weight. Provide emergency medical care if the mother cannot or will not care for them herself.

Vaccines

Puppies gain temporary immunity from drinking the mother's colostrum milk. They should be dewormed at 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks old and vaccinated starting at 6 weeks of age.

Weaning Process

Puppies begin weaning off milk onto solid food between 3-6 weeks old. Provide a quality puppy food soaked with goat's milk. Weaning is gradual and completed by 7-8 weeks of age.

Finding Homes

Rottweiler puppies can go to new homes at 8 weeks of age once weaned, dewormed and vaccinated. Screen potential buyers carefully and have them sign a contract. Only place puppies in responsible hands.

After the Pregnancy

Help your Rottweiler recover after the demands of pregnancy and nursing:

• Ensure she passes all placental material and isn't infected
• Support lactation with healthy diet and clean space away from the puppies when needed
• Limit strenuous activity while nursing over the next few weeks
• Watch for signs of postpartum depression like lack of appetite, low energy or anxiety
• Discuss spaying with your veterinarian once done breeding

With lots of TLC and veterinary guidance, your treasured Rottweiler companion can have a smooth pregnancy and delivery resulting in adorable puppies!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.