Zviropolis

Bringing a dog into our lives is not only a source of joy and pleasure but also a responsibility for its upbringing. One of the basics worth paying attention to is house training. Why does it matter so much? Above all, it is about keeping the home hygienic and everyone in it comfortable. A dog that knows where it should go to the toilet minimises the risk of unpleasant surprises and helps keep the house in order. What is more, house training builds trust between the animal and its owner, which means a better relationship and a greater sense of security for your pet. In this article we look at the benefits of house training your dog and share practical tips on how to go about it.

• Keeping the home hygienic is easier when a dog knows where it should go to the toilet, which means far less cleaning up.
• Building trust between dog and owner matters; a dog feels safer when its needs are respected.
• House training helps you avoid damage to furniture and floors, as well as disputes with neighbours if you live in a block of flats.
• Starting training from the very first day in the new home is essential; watching for the signals your dog gives helps you respond effectively.
• Designating a toilet spot and rewarding your dog for getting it right supports the learning process.
• Moving from puppy pads to walks means gradually taking the dog outside more often and rewarding it for successes outdoors.
• Adult dogs can be house trained too, with regular walks and positive reinforcement.
• Health problems can affect a dog’s ability to stay clean; if behaviour changes suddenly, it is worth consulting a vet.

Why is house training worth the effort?

House training your dog is not just a matter of appearances; above all, it improves hygiene in the home. A dog that knows where it should go to the toilet helps keep its surroundings clean and tidy. That way you avoid the unpleasant business of cleaning up after your pet in places that were never meant for it. Building trust between dog and owner is another important aspect. When a dog understands the house rules and knows its needs are respected, it feels safer and more at ease.

It is also worth stressing that house training spares you a lot of unpleasant situations. A dog that can relieve itself outside is less likely to damage furniture or floors with moisture or the smell of urine. It is also a way of avoiding disputes with neighbours if you live in a block of flats.

• Better hygiene – less cleaning and a cleaner home.
• Trust – the dog feels more confident and more bonded to its owner.
• No more problems – no nasty surprises in the form of stains or smells.

With these benefits, both you and your pet can enjoy living together in harmony.

First steps in house training

It is extremely important to start house training from the very first day your dog arrives in its new home. Pay attention to the signals your dog gives when it needs to go. Watch for behaviour such as circling, sniffing the floor or restlessness. These are the moments to step in and guide your dog to its designated spot. Consistency and patience are key to the whole process. Remember that a young dog cannot yet control its bladder and bowels as well as an adult, so taking it outside frequently will help it understand the house rules.

To house train your dog effectively, it is worth using a few tried-and-tested methods:

• Designate a spot in the home where your dog can go to the toilet – puppy pads are the best option.
• Reward your dog every time it goes in the right place – verbal praise and treats are great motivators.
• Stay alert – respond quickly to your dog’s signals and guide it to the designated spot.

With these simple steps you can get your pet’s house training off to a good start. Remember that every dog is different and may need a different amount of time to take in the new rules. What matters is being a consistent and patient owner.

How to teach a puppy to pee in a designated spot

To teach a puppy to pee in a designated spot, start by setting up a suitable area in the home. Choose a place that is easy for the dog to reach but does not get in the way of the household. Puppy pads can be extremely helpful in the early stages of training. They are made of absorbent materials that soak up moisture and odours, which helps keep the home clean. Put the pad in your chosen spot and regularly encourage your puppy to use it, especially after meals, naps and play.

A key element of training is consistently rewarding your dog for going in the right place. Every successful use of the pad should be rewarded with a treat or verbal praise. That way the dog will quickly understand that this is the behaviour you want. Here are a few tips that can help with the learning process:

• Watch for signals – pay attention to the moments when your dog starts circling or sniffing, which may mean it needs to go.
• Be consistent – regularity is the key to success; try to take your dog to the pad at set times of day.
• Avoid punishment – if there is an accident, do not scold the dog; simply clean up calmly and carry on with the training.

Remember that patience and consistency matter most when house training a puppy. With the right approach and positive reinforcement, your pet will soon learn to go to the toilet in the right place.

Moving from the pad to walks

Moving from the pad to walks is an important stage in house training. To wean your pet off using the pad, gradually increase how often you go for walks. Taking the dog outside regularly helps it understand that the grass is the right place to go. Bear in mind that walks should take place every 3–4 hours, and after every successful toilet trip outdoors you should reward the dog with a treat or verbal praise. That way the dog will start to associate walks with positive experiences.

Difficulties can crop up while you are moving toileting outdoors. Some dogs may initially refuse to go outside, especially if they have grown used to the pad. In such cases it can help to take the pad with you on the walk and lay it out on the grass, which lets the dog link the new place with its familiar behaviour. It is also important not to punish the dog for any accidents at home, but to focus on rewarding successes outdoors. Here are a few tips that may help:

• Watch for signals – pay attention to behaviour that may indicate your dog needs to go out.
• Be patient – every dog learns at its own pace.
• Consult a behaviourist – if you run into difficulties, it is worth seeking help from a specialist.

House training adult dogs

Owners of adult dogs with house-training problems can feel bewildered and frustrated. There are, however, effective methods that can help solve the problem. First of all, it is worth running training similar to that used for puppies. Regular walks are essential: an adult dog should have the chance to go outside at least several times a day. It is important to reward the dog for going outdoors, which will help it understand that this is the right place for it. Remember that patience and consistency are indispensable in the learning process.

For rescue dogs or those with a difficult past, extra steps may be necessary. Such dogs often need more time to adjust to their new circumstances. It is worth considering a consultation with an animal behaviourist, who can help identify any trauma and suggest tailored solutions. Here are a few tips:

• A regular walking schedule – keeping to set times for going out helps the dog settle into its new routine.
• Rewarding good behaviour – praise and treats for going outdoors reinforce good habits.
• Restricting access to problem areas – if the dog tends to go in particular places in the home, it is worth limiting its access to those areas.

Remember, too, to be patient and empathetic – every dog is different and may need a different amount of time to take in the new rules.

Health problems and house training

Health problems can have a significant effect on a dog’s ability to stay clean. We often do not realise that a sudden change in our pet’s behaviour may be down to some underlying ailment. Watch out for signs such as frequent urination, difficulty controlling the bladder or unusual behaviour on walks. They may point to urinary tract problems, infections or other conditions. In such cases a consultation with a vet is essential; the vet will carry out the appropriate tests and make a diagnosis.

Certain diseases, such as diabetes or kidney failure, can also lead to a dog having trouble staying clean. That is why it is important to watch for any changes in behaviour and act on them early.

• Regular visits to the vet will help keep track of your dog’s health.
• It is also worth looking out for additional symptoms, such as changes in appetite or weight.

Remember that a prompt response can prevent more serious health problems and improve our four-legged friend’s quality of life.

Summary

House training your dog matters not just for the sake of appearances but, above all, for hygiene in the home. A dog that knows where it should go to the toilet helps keep things in order and avoids the unpleasant business of cleaning up in places that were never meant for it. Building trust between dog and owner is important too; a dog that understands the house rules feels safer and more at ease.

Moving from the pad to walks is a key stage in house training. Taking the dog outside regularly helps it understand that the grass is the right place to go. Remember to reward your dog for successes outdoors, and to be patient and consistent throughout the learning process. For adult dogs with house-training problems, regular walks and rewarding good behaviour can be an effective solution. Where health problems are involved, it is worth consulting a vet to rule out any conditions affecting your dog’s ability to stay clean.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common mistakes made when house training a dog?

The most common mistakes are inconsistency in training, punishing the dog for accidents and irregular walks. It is also best to avoid changing the places where the dog is supposed to go, as this can confuse it.

Do all dogs learn house training at the same pace?

No, every dog is different and the pace of learning can vary. Some dogs pick up the new rules quickly, while others may need more time and patience from their owner.

Are there breeds that are harder to house train?

Some breeds can be more stubborn or independent, which can make training harder. With the right approach and consistency, however, any breed can be house trained.

How do I deal with a dog that is afraid to go outside?

It is best to get the dog used to walks gradually, starting with short outings and slowly extending them. You can also consult an animal behaviourist, who can help identify the causes of the fear and suggest suitable solutions.

Can an adult dog be house trained in the same way as a puppy?

Yes, adult dogs can be house trained too. The process may take more patience and time than with puppies, but regularity and positive reinforcement do bring results.

What signs may point to health problems related to a dog’s toileting?

Signs such as frequent urination, difficulty controlling the bladder or unusual behaviour on walks may point to health problems. In such cases it is worth consulting a vet.

Are puppy pads necessary for house training?

Puppy pads can be helpful in the early stages of house training, especially for puppies or dogs living in flats. They help keep the home clean and teach the dog to use a designated spot.

How long does house training take?

The time needed for house training depends on many factors, such as the dog’s age, its temperament and the owner’s consistency. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.

Is rewarding with treats effective in house training?

Rewarding with treats is an effective way of reinforcing good behaviour in dogs. It helps the dog associate the right toilet spot with positive experiences more quickly.

What if my dog still refuses to go to the toilet outside?

If your dog will not go outside, try taking the puppy pad with you on walks or consult an animal behaviourist. It is also important to watch the signals your dog gives and adapt the training to its needs.

Pregnancy in dogs is an intense physiological period lasting around two months on average. For a responsible owner, whether the pregnancy was planned as part of a breeding programme or came as a surprise, it is a time of heightened attention and special care. The mother-to-be’s body switches over to sustaining the litter and preparing for birth, and that calls for conscious support from the owner.

A sound understanding of the physiology, correct feeding and timely check-ups is essential for keeping both the bitch and her puppies healthy. This guide, prepared by the experts at Zviropolis, gives you the information you need on how pregnancy progresses, how it is diagnosed and how to prepare for whelping.

When can a bitch become pregnant, and what does it mean for her health?

Bitches usually reach sexual maturity between 6 and 12 months of age, although in giant breeds it can be as late as the second year of life. Maturity is signalled by the first heat (season).

It must be stressed, however, that the physiological ability to conceive is not the same as being physically and mentally ready for motherhood. Responsible breeders only mate a bitch once she has come through the turbulent phase of adolescence and reached her full adult size. It is generally recommended that a bitch be at least 2 or 3 years old, to protect her health and physical condition both before and after pregnancy. The right breeding age is crucial to the health of the mother and her puppies.

Pregnancy and whelping at a very young age carry enormous risks that can end in miscarriage or even the death of a mother who is simply too young. The foetuses may be too large for a physically immature bitch. Alongside age and physical and mental maturity, the decision to breed must also be conditional on good health and the absence of any diagnosed genetic disorders.

How long does pregnancy last in dogs, and how do you recognise it?

Pregnancy in dogs lasts on average 58 to 70 days, with a typical duration of around 63 days. Canine gestation can be divided into three trimesters:

• First trimester (weeks 0–3): The fertilisation and implantation phase. The embryos develop and settle into the uterus. The bitch may not yet show any visible signs of pregnancy. At this stage the embryo consists of blastomeres.
• Second trimester (weeks 4–6): Intensive development of the internal and external organs takes place, along with weight gain. The pregnancy becomes visible: the abdomen rounds out, and the mammary glands thicken and darken in colour.
• Third trimester (weeks 7–9): The foetuses gain weight and mature. They reach 70% of their birth weight and their bones harden. The mother gains 20–55% in body weight.

Watching for signs of pregnancy

Owners who have deliberately had their bitch mated watch her day by day, but the symptoms in the first trimester are non-specific: reduced appetite, mild tiredness and possibly vomiting.

The more telling, later signs are:

• Enlarged nipples: Within the first few weeks you may notice the nipples becoming more prominent and enlarged. Shortly before whelping, colostrum (the puppies’ first food) appears in the mammary glands.
• Enlarged abdomen: From around week 3–4 of pregnancy, the bitch’s belly begins to grow and becomes more rounded.
• Behavioural changes: Pregnant bitches may become more sociable or, conversely, withdrawn, seeking peace and seclusion. In the eighth week they become restless and start nesting.

Phantom pregnancy: a hormonal phenomenon

Exactly the same signs of pregnancy can be brought on by a phantom pregnancy (pseudopregnancy), a common phenomenon in unspayed bitches regardless of age or breed. Phantom pregnancy stems from hormonal imbalance, usually appears 3 to 12 weeks after a season and can last several weeks. It shows itself in behavioural changes (nesting, treating toys as offspring, irritability, aggressively guarding the “puppies”) and physical ones (swollen mammary glands filling with milk). A phantom pregnancy usually resolves on its own, but you should seek advice from a veterinarian. If your bitch suffers from the symptoms of phantom pregnancy, it is worth considering spaying.

Diagnosing pregnancy: tests and predicting the whelping date

Regular visits to the vet are essential for monitoring the bitch’s health and the progress of the pregnancy. At the clinic, a range of tests can be carried out to assess the condition of the mother and the litter precisely, and to estimate the whelping date.

Tests to confirm and monitor pregnancy

The key diagnostic tests, depending on the stage of pregnancy, are:

• Serological test (relaxin): A blood test measures the level of relaxin, a hormone secreted by the placenta from around the third week of pregnancy.
• Ultrasound scan: Possible from day 21 after mating, with day 25 or 26 being the optimal time. An ultrasound confirms that the puppies are alive and can detect foetal heartbeats as early as day 24–25. The method is safe and effective.
• X-ray: Possible no earlier than day 45 of pregnancy. X-rays are crucial because they allow the litter size to be determined by showing the number of spines.
• Palpation: Carried out between days 15 and 35 of pregnancy, but it requires a great deal of experience on the vet’s part.

Litter size cannot be predicted; it depends on the size, age and breed of the mother and father, their condition and their state of health.

Predicting the whelping date

One way of pinpointing the whelping date is to measure progesterone levels, which should be done every two days during the final week of pregnancy. A drop below 3 ng/ml indicates that whelping is fast approaching. In addition, rectal temperature is measured over the last few days of pregnancy; the day before whelping, core body temperature drops by 1°C (to around 37°C).

Optimal care for a pregnant bitch

A pregnant bitch needs not only medical monitoring but also the right support in everyday life.

Feeding and supplements

A balanced diet with adequate fat, sufficient calories and plenty of omega-3 fatty acids is key to the bitch’s health and the puppies’ development.

• First half of pregnancy: For the first four weeks, the bitch’s nutritional needs barely change.
• Second half of pregnancy: From around week 5, food portions need to be increased by roughly 10% per week, as the growing puppies need minerals, protein and energy. It is a good idea to offer smaller but more frequent meals, which makes eating easier for her, especially once the expanding uterus is pressing on the stomach.
• Important warnings: Under no circumstances should you overfeed the dog, as this can lead to difficulties during whelping. Because of the risk of postpartum eclampsia (hypocalcaemia, a calcium deficiency associated with lactation), calcium supplements are not recommended during pregnancy, only after whelping.

Exercise and environment

The bitch’s physical activity should be tailored to her condition. There is no need to restrict exercise in the first half of pregnancy; strenuous exertion should only be avoided in the second half. Light activity, such as walks at a moderate pace, can benefit her fitness and health.

Early on, it is worth setting up a quiet, comfortable resting spot for her, ideally in a peaceful corner of the house. Line it with soft materials that will give her comfort and a sense of security. Avoid unnecessary stress, which can have a negative effect on the pregnancy.

Preparing for whelping and how it unfolds

Preparing for the birth is a key stage in caring for your bitch.

Preparing the whelping box

It is worth setting up a dedicated whelping box (nest) in a particularly quiet spot and encouraging her to sleep in it. The space should feel safe and be lined with clean, soft materials that can be changed easily. You should also have clean towels on hand for drying newborn puppies, along with a disposable sterile scalpel blade in case the umbilical cord needs to be cut.

The stages of whelping

Whelping in dogs lasts from 3 to 24 hours, and occasionally as long as 36.

1. Stage 1: Dilation of the cervix. The preparatory phase. The bitch stops eating, becomes restless and may urinate and defecate more often.
2. Stage 2: Delivery of the puppies. The bitch has straining contractions as she pushes the puppies out. She licks each newborn puppy clean and bites through the umbilical cord.
3. Stage 3: Passing of the foetal membranes. This follows a few minutes after the puppies are delivered. The bitch expels the foetal membranes (placenta) together with greenish foetal fluids. She will often eat the placenta.

Complications and when to intervene

Whelping should be supervised. Giving birth is hugely stressful for a dog, so do not disturb her, make noise or try to feed her.

Contact a veterinarian immediately if:

• No puppy has been born after six hours of contractions.
• The puppies are weak and the bitch is unable to care for them.
• The bitch is having difficulty giving birth.

There are many causes of a difficult birth; the most common are breeding bitches that are too young, breeding bitches with genetic pelvic defects, breeding overweight or obese bitches, and a high birth weight of the puppies.

If the pregnancy threatens the bitch’s health, a veterinarian can terminate it; terminating an advanced pregnancy usually requires surgery and should be combined with spaying, to prevent further unwanted pregnancies as well as pyometra.

Summary

Pregnancy in dogs is a complex but short period that calls for exceptional care and commitment from the owner. Proper feeding, veterinary check-ups and informed preparation for whelping are essential to the health of the mother and her puppies.

The golden rule for any sensible owner should be to prevent unwanted pregnancies through responsible breeding. And while you wait for the litter, it is worth learning about your bitch’s needs so that you can respond properly to any complications.

If you are planning an addition to the family, or have any concerns about the course of the pregnancy, feeding or whelping, do not hesitate to consult our specialists. We are here to support you at every stage of your bitch’s motherhood.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How long does pregnancy last in dogs?

Pregnancy in dogs lasts on average 58 to 70 days, with the standard time to whelping being around 63 days.

2. When is the best time to confirm a bitch’s pregnancy?

The first tests, such as an ultrasound scan, can be carried out around 21–26 days after mating to confirm the presence and viability of the foetuses. An X-ray, which shows the exact number of puppies, is only possible after day 45.

3. Can dogs have a phantom pregnancy?

Yes, phantom pregnancy (pseudopregnancy) is common in unspayed bitches regardless of age or breed. It stems from hormonal imbalance and can manifest as nesting, aggression and swollen mammary glands. If phantom pregnancies keep recurring, it is worth considering spaying.

4. How should a bitch’s diet change during pregnancy?

For the first four weeks the diet stays the same. Only from around week 5 should you gradually increase the calorie content of the food to provide energy for the growing foetuses, which means increasing portions by roughly 10% per week. Overfeeding and calcium supplementation before whelping must be strictly avoided, as they could lead to complications.

5. When is veterinary intervention needed during whelping?

Most births proceed naturally, but intervention is needed if:

• No puppy has been born after six hours of strong contractions.
• The bitch is having difficulty giving birth or is exhausted.
• The puppies are weak and the mother shows no interest in them.

Your dog’s diet

A dog’s diet needs to be put together with care so that it provides every nutrient your dog needs. Fruit can be a wonderful addition to a healthy diet for our four-legged friends, supplying vitamins, minerals and fibre. Bear in mind, though, that while some fruits are safe for dogs, others can be harmful or downright toxic.

Fruits that are safe for dogs

Some fruits are safe and healthy for dogs, and adding them to the diet can bring plenty of benefits

• Apples: Apples are rich in vitamins A and C as well as fibre, which aids digestion. You can offer them in small pieces or slices, but be sure to remove the core first, as the seeds contain toxic amygdalin. Apples make a healthy treat, a nice addition to the daily diet, or even an ingredient in homemade dog treats.

• Bananas: Bananas are sweet and tasty, and give dogs potassium and vitamins B6 and C. Their high carbohydrate content makes them an excellent source of energy, but because they are also high in sugar, it is best to offer them in moderation. Slice them so they are easy to eat, or blend them into a dog-friendly smoothie.

• Blueberries: These little berries are a real treasure trove of antioxidants, which can support your dog’s heart health and cognitive function. Blueberries are not only low in calories but may also give the immune system a boost. Serve them fresh or frozen, which makes them the perfect snack on a hot day.

• Watermelon: Watermelon has a very high water content, which makes it an excellent treat for hot weather. It is rich in vitamins A and C.  It also contains lycopene, a natural antioxidant. Give your dog watermelon in small pieces with the seeds and rind removed to avoid digestive upsets. You can also freeze it and serve it as a lolly, which is sure to be refreshing.

• Pears: Pears are wonderfully juicy and packed with vitamins such as C and K, as well as fibre that helps digestion. Before giving your dog a pear, make sure you remove the seeds and the tough stalk, which can be hard to digest. Pears can be served in chunks or finely chopped, making them a tasty and healthy treat for your pet.

Fruits to avoid

While many fruits can be a healthy addition to a dog’s diet, there are also some that can be harmful or toxic

• Grapes and raisins: These can have tragic consequences for a dog’s health, even in very small amounts. Some dogs are particularly sensitive to the toxic compounds in grapes and raisins, which can lead to severe kidney damage. Signs of poisoning usually appear quickly and include vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, loss of appetite and lethargy. In extreme cases, kidney failure can develop, requiring intensive veterinary treatment.

• Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits such as lemons, limes and grapefruit can cause unpleasant side effects in dogs. Their high acidity can lead to stomach irritation, digestive problems and allergic reactions. Although small amounts of citrus may not cause serious trouble, it is better to steer clear of them.

• Avocado: Avocado contains a substance called persin, which is toxic to many pets, including dogs. It can lead to serious health problems such as vomiting, diarrhoea and swelling. Although some breeds may be more sensitive to persin than others, it is best not to give avocado to your pet at all

•  Cherries and peaches can be dangerous because their stones and seeds contain cyanide, a highly toxic substance. Cyanide ingestion can cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing and drooling, and in extreme cases can even be fatal. That is why you should never give your dog fruit with the stones left in.

• Pomegranate can be hard for dogs to digest. Its hard seeds can cause stomach problems such as bloating, diarrhoea and other digestive upsets. The hard texture of the fruit can also pose a choking hazard if a dog gulps down pieces too greedily.

How to introduce fruit into your dog’s diet

Fruit should be introduced into a dog’s diet gradually. Always start with small pieces to see how your dog reacts. Make sure your dog is not allergic to the fruit in question and that it does not cause any digestive upset. Also, only ever offer fruit in moderation, so that excess sugar does not lead to digestive problems.

Summary

Fruit can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet, but it is important to know which fruits are safe and which can do harm. Apples, bananas, blueberries, watermelon and pears provide valuable nutrients and make tasty treats for our pets. Grapes, citrus fruits, avocado and a few others, on the other hand, can cause serious health problems and should be avoided. And ultimately, it is always worth checking with your vet to make sure that adding fruit to your dog’s diet is appropriate and safe.