How to Raise a German Shepherd Litter

If you have a pregnant German Shepherd, you should be aware that the mother and puppies all need to be taken care of properly to ensure that the health of all the dogs is well maintained.   Your puppies will grow very fast and you must be sure that the right procedures are taken to be sure that healthy puppies are produced before they move on to their new homes.

• Make sure that your pregnant German Shepherd is set up in an area that is quiet and comfortable when she is ready to give birth.  She should be in an area that is away from noise to make her as comfortable as possible.


• Watch your Shepherd when she is giving birth to make sure that she releases each puppy from its sack and cuts each umbilical cord as the puppies are being born.  Inspect each puppy to make sure that they are breathing properly.  You can wipe the puppies down with a dry towel but make sure that you place them back with their mother right away to ensure that they are not rejected.


• After all of the puppies are born your German Shepherd will need to rest.  Check with the mother and puppies occasionally throughout the day to make sure that the puppies are nursing regularly and that everyone seems well.


• Place food and water near the birthing area for your Shepherd to make sure that she does not have to go far to eat.  The puppies should be nursing regularly and growing rapidly for the next four weeks.


• The puppies should soon start to walk and explore your home.  Make sure that they are in a secure area so that they can safely try to walk around without getting into too much trouble.


• Puppy food can be introduced to the litter at around five weeks.  They will start to eat solid food as they continue nursing.  At this time you will notice that the puppies will start messing on the floor more often.  Set up old newspapers or puppy pads around the area that your puppies are located to cut down on the mess.


• At six weeks the puppies will be ready to be taken to the vet to be examined and given their first shots.  Be aware of any health issues that are associated with any of the puppies.


• At about eight weeks the puppies should have completely stopped nursing and be eating solid food only.  At this time the puppies will be ready to go to their new homes.  Place an ad and make sure to interview prospective owners to ensure that your dogs are going to good homes.