When preparing your dogs for breeding, it is important to plan out the entire process. One important key item that you will need 2 months after the dog mating has taken place is a whelping box. The box must be constructed with an open top. With high enough walls where the mother will feel secure and have enough privacy that she is at ease. They should also be high enough that the puppies remain inside when they're old enough to move around. The box must be draft-free to prevent the puppies from catching any types of illnesses. Puppies are very susceptible to illnesses at this age and all attempts should be made to protect them.

Installing guard rails is whelping boxes is extremely important. This protects the puppies from getting injured or even suffocating from the mother accidentally laying on them.

It should be designed with one side having a U-shape opening allowing the mother to easy climb in and out of the box with having to jump. It also shouldn't be to allow as to allow the puppies to easily be able to come out.

Different Types

The box should be constructed of sturdy cardboard, plastic or plywood.

Newdog Company offers a disposable sturdy cardboard constructed whelping box that comes in a variety of sizes ideal for most dogs. The price is fairly inexpensive and it has received great reviews online from other breeders.

Plastic constructed boxes are made of nonporous, easy to disinfect surfaces. The good thing about plastic enclosures is that they last longer and can be used for many years. Depending on your setup and your finances this could definitely be an optimal choice.

Wooden constructed boxes offer a sturdy and stable environment for dogs. The strong structure adds value and privacy for the matron and ensures the puppies are safe.

How To Build Your Own

A few things to keep in mind when building your the enclosure is: 1. Maintenance, you want to make sure the it is easy to clean and not time consuming. 2. You want the whelping box to be sturdy and durable.

Materials you will need:

-1 pieces of 4'x4' 3/4" plywood (make sure they are smooth on both sides
-3 pieces of 16"x4' (3 sides)
-1 pieces of 2"x6' (Front of the whelping box, high enough to keep the puppies in but short enough for mom to easily climb out)
-Screws to assemble the whelping box

Before assembling the box, place contact paper over the plywood. This will help protect the wood and make cleaning a breeze. Also consider using vinyl for flooring. This will help keep your whelping box stain free.

For bedding you can use sheepskin or newspaper. Sheepskin will last a long time. Its washable and it helps the puppies stand up faster because of better gripping. Newspaper is inexpensive and easy to clean out and replace.

Good luck with your project.