Pregnant Bichon Frise? Here’s What to Expect Week by Week.

Pregnant Bichon Frise Care: What Every Owner Should Know

Pregnant Bichon Frise care requires attention to detail, gentleness, and great planning. Whether this is your dog’s first litter or a surprise situation, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from early signs to whelping. With the right information, you’ll feel confident in your pregnant Bichon Frise care journey.

🤰 Signs Your Bichon Might Be Pregnant

Most Bichons don’t show clear signs until 3–4 weeks in. Here’s what to watch for:

Decreased appetite in early weeks, followed by increased hunger
Enlarged nipples and slight belly swelling
Mild behavior changes (clingy or withdrawn)
Nesting behavior closer to due date

Confirm with a vet via ultrasound around day 25.

🗓️ Bichon Pregnancy Timeline (Week-by-Week)

Weeks	What’s Happening	What You Should Do
1–3	Fertilization & embryo travel	Keep her routine relaxed and normal
4–5	Visible weight gain starts	Switch to high-quality puppy food
6–7	Puppies develop rapidly	Limit rough play, prepare whelping box
8–9	Nesting begins	Watch for signs of labor, stay nearby

Gestation lasts ~63 days (about 9 weeks).

🥣 Nutrition for Pregnant Bichon Frise Care

Switch to a puppy-formula kibble in week 4 for extra calories
Small, frequent meals as her belly expands
Add omega-3s (fish oil) and folic acid if approved by vet
Stay hydrated with constant fresh water

❌ Avoid raw meat, calcium supplements (can cause eclampsia), or overfeeding.

🛎️ Preparing for Whelping

Create a quiet, clean whelping area with soft towels
Keep temperature around 75°F (24°C)
Stock up on: gloves, clean scissors, iodine, heating pad, and vet contact info

Signs of labor include restlessness, panting, digging, and body temp drop (below 99°F).

When in doubt—call your vet. Don’t wait.

🐶 After Birth Care for Mom & Puppies

Let mom clean and nurse pups unless she seems confused or uninterested
Weigh pups daily (they should gain steadily)
Keep the area warm and clean
Monitor mom’s eating, urination, and mammary glands for signs of infection

⚠️ Common Issues to Watch For

Dystocia (trouble giving birth) – common in toy breeds
Retained placenta – needs vet attention
Eclampsia – dangerous calcium drop after birth
Low puppy weight gain – may indicate weak nursing or infection

🚗 Should You Breed Your Bichon?

Only if:

She’s over 2 years old and under 6
Free of hereditary conditions
You’ve done a health check + genetic testing
You have time, money, and energy for puppies
You have homes lined up

If not, spaying is the responsible route.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Pregnant Bichon Frise care is both delicate and deeply rewarding. With proper preparation, calm surroundings, and great nutrition, your girl can deliver healthy puppies safely. Always involve your vet—and trust your instincts.