Got Milk?
An article written by our very own Dr. Wayne Loertscher for Pet Friendly Magazine.
Q: How do I get my nursing mother dog to produce more milk?
A: My wife and I recently achieved a huge goal. We tested for our black belts in Taekwondo. We have been working on this goal for over four years. Our progression was stopped by my wife becoming pregnant and then delivering our child. During that time we had a number of complications. She went into preterm labor at 34 weeks. Then, when the baby was born she had a terrible time nursing. We took her to a number of specialists, including a physical therapist that specializes in nursing babies. Who knew that they could be that specialized? I was amazed. Well, with time we were able to get her on track and she is now doing very well. What a relief.
Your goal of getting your female dog to produce more milk is an admirable one. Sometimes we speak of goals and define them with an acronym. S.M.A.R.T. goals are ones that are specific, meaningful, achievable, relevant, and trackable.
Let’s look at this goal. All things can fit into this acronym except for one thing. Since we are working with biological systems we do not have control over all things and therefore sometimes this goal is not achievable in all cases. Milk production is controlled by positive and negative feedback systems. It is a demand and supply system. The more that is demanded, the more is supplied, generally speaking. Nutrition, health of the dog and genetics play huge roles in this as well. Sometimes supplementing the puppies is not only important but critical. However, allowing the puppies to nurse is also important for the long term goal of allowing the dog to care for the puppies
After we tested for our black belts I came home and collapsed. I did not realize how stressed I had become. I felt exhausted. The physical and emotional strain that I had experienced made me so tired. I slept very well that night. I also felt very empowered. I had done something that many people never attempt even though as a child they once said “I want to be a black belt.” As a pet owner that is breeding your dog, you should always remember that even though it is very rewarding, it is exhausting. Also, if you have done everything in your power to increase milk production and you cannot get it done, you should consider not breeding her in the future as you will possibly need to supplement the next generation of puppies.