My golden retriever is just 11 months old and gave birth to only one puppy, mating with her own brother. I am really worried about her. What should I feed her?

Updated On January 4th, 2020

Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Female | unspayed | 11 months and 7 days old | 68 lbs

Image profile

Answered By Dr. Elizabeth

Veterinarian

This question includes photos that may contain sensitive content. Click to view.

View more to consider that the photos may include sensitive content.

I recommend to have Ginny examined by the veterinarian and potentially have an x-ray to make sure there are not other puppies. Goldens generally have more puppies but litters of one can occur. Retained puppies can be fatal. Ginny needs to eat a high quality puppy food (but not large breed, just normal puppy food). Here is a link with great information: https://www.petcoach.co/article/caring-for-newborn-puppies-their-mother/ After the puppy is weaned, Ginny and potentially her brother need to be sterilized. Inbreeding is not a good thing and it is VERY hard to have mixed sex, intact dogs as you have unfortunately found out. Sterilizing dogs also has many health and behavioral benefits: https://www.petcoach.co/article/spaying-ovariohysterectomy-the-benefits-in-dogs/ https://www.petcoach.co/article/benefits-of-neutering-castrating-male-dogs-puppies/ I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

See More Answers
image

Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.