Q&A Series, Ep 10 - Podcast Show Notes

Q&A: Pregnancy & Puppy Predictor

​Welcome back to another engaging Q&A session with Sara and Isobel on Breeders Brew! This episode dives into some of the most pressing questions from whelping groups, covering everything from predicting puppy due dates, milk supply in new mothers, and the ever-controversial topic of C-section costs. We share our expert opinions, practical advice, and a few laughs along the way!

​PODCAST TAKEAWAYS:

• Predicting Puppy Due Dates:
  
  • A breeder asks when to expect a litter after a mating on 28th December.
  • Sara and Isobel highlight the importance of ovulation testing and pregnancy scans for accurate due dates.
  • The Pregnancy Puppy Predictor tool is introduced as a simple way to track breeding milestones.
• Milk Supply Worries:
  
  • A breeder is concerned about a dam’s milk production at 1.5 days post-whelping.
  • Sara and Isobel explain the difference between colostrum (first milk) and true milk, which typically arrives around day three.
  • The importance of puppies suckling to stimulate milk production and how to monitor their intake is discussed.
• Puppy Weighing & Growth Monitoring:
  
  • Weighing puppies daily can help identify problems early, but some breeders choose to wait until milk is fully in.
  • Weight loss in the first few days is expected, but puppies should start gaining once milk supply is established.
  • Tracking weight trends helps determine whether intervention is needed.
• Bathing Puppies & Hygiene Management:
  
  • Neither Sara nor Isobel bathe their puppies before they leave, as a clean whelping environment and raw feeding prevent odours.
  • Toilet areas should be distinct from sleeping and play areas to encourage good hygiene habits early on.
  • For coated breeds that require bathing, choosing natural, safe shampoos is essential to avoid stripping essential oils.
• C-Section Costs & Planning Ahead:
  
  • A breeder asks how much to save for an emergency C-section.
  • Costs vary widely by location, breed, and vet policies—quotes range from £900 to £5,000 in the UK and $1,000 to $10,000 in the US.
  • Sara and Isobel stress the importance of financial preparedness for unexpected breeding expenses.
• The Impact of Vet Choices on Pricing:
  
  • Some breeder-friendly vets offer affordable, routine C-sections, while others charge premium rates.
  • Factors like time of day, location, and whether it’s an emergency influence pricing significantly.
  • The importance of finding a vet experienced in breeding-related care is highlighted.

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

Have a breeding-related question? Join the discussion!

• Email us: Send your questions to [email protected][email protected].
• Join our Facebook community: Search Breeders Brew Community on Facebook to connect with proactive, passionate breeders.