Science
Explore the intricate world of canine reproduction in our Science Section! Delve into the fascinating nuances of the dog gestation period, uncover the secrets of pregnancy in dogs, and stay informed with insights from veterinary experts and the most relevant scientific publications. Discover the "how" and "why" of dog pregnancy, from identifying dog pregnancy symptoms to understanding the intricacies of pregnancy tests for dogs. Join us now on a journey of scientific inquiry and gain a deeper appreciation for the miracle of life within man's best friend.
Science
Bringing new puppies into the world is exciting, but it can also leave dog owners with a lot of questions. One of the most common is: how do I know if my dog is pregnant?
In this article, we cover:
The early signs of pregnancy you may notice at home
Veterinary methods for confirming pregnancy
How the Bellylabs Dog Pregnancy Test works and when it can be used
At Bellylabs, we believe every breeder deserves peace of mind when it comes to pregnancy...
The physiological demands of labor, delivery, and lactation place exceptional stress on the maternal body. One of the most critical nutrients required during this time is calcium—essential for proper muscle contractions, nerve transmission, and metabolic stability. The soon launching Bellylabs Calcium+ Paste is a fast-absorbing, highly bioavailable supplement designed to meet the acute calcium needs of dogs during whelping and the postpartum period, helping reduce the risk of complications and support maternal well-being.
Formulated with calcium carbonate, tricalciumcitrate, magnesium citrate, and vitamin D3, this paste delivers rapid and effective nutritional support when timely intervention matters most.
Timely nutritional support can be life-saving—particularly for vulnerable dogs such as weak or fading puppies, dogs in recovery from illness, or senior canines facing temporary energy deficits. The soon to be launched Bellylabs Revive Paste is fast-absorbing energy and nutrient paste designed to address such critical windows with a combination of easily digestible carbohydrates, essential vitamins, colostrum, and probiotics.
This complementary feed provides rapid metabolic support when energy, immune stimulation, and appetite encouragement are urgently needed. Whether stabilizing a newborn puppy or assisting a recovering adult, Revive Paste delivers targeted, science-based support to help dogs regain strength and resilience.
Optimal health in dogs begins at the cellular level. Skin and coat condition, immune function, and metabolic vitality are all influenced by the quality of a dog’s diet—particularly its intake of essential fatty acids and antioxidants. Bellylabs Antioxidant Oil is a scientifically formulated, plant-based dietary supplement designed to support these foundational systems with a precise blend of high-quality oils and micronutrients. The product will be out this Spring!
This product offers a balanced and fish-free source of Omega-3, Omega-6, and Omega-9 fatty acids, alongside potent antioxidant support from vitamins A and E. Developed to promote dermatological health, immune resilience, and general well-being, the oil is suitable for dogs of all breeds and life stages.
At Bellylabs, we understand that a healthy start can shape a dog’s lifelong well-being. Whether you’re a breeder managing the unique nutritional needs of a mother dog and her litter, or an owner caring for dogs of different ages and backgrounds, gut health is a critical part of the equation.
That’s why we’re proud to share a first look at an exciting new addition to the Bellylabs product family—designed to support digestive balance and overall vitality with a science-backed blend of prebiotics, probiotics, and functional ingredients.
Vitamin E is a crucial fat-soluble antioxidant that plays a vital role in maintaining your dog’s health. It protects cell membranes from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, supports the immune system, promotes healthy skin and coat, and even contributes to fertility and reproductive success. Ensuring that your dog gets adequate vitamin E is essential for their overall well-being, especially since deficiencies can lead to muscle weakness, neurological issues, and reproductive challenges.
Pregnancy detection in dogs is an essential aspect of reproductive management for breeders, veterinarians, and pet owners alike. One of the most reliable indicators of pregnancy in dogs is the hormone relaxin. Unique to pregnant dogs, relaxin plays a crucial role in gestation and can be used as a diagnostic marker to confirm pregnancy. Understanding the function of relaxin and the various ways to detect pregnancy in dogs can help ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and her developing puppies.
Early socialization is crucial for a puppy's behavioral development and long-term adaptability. Breeders play a key role during the sensitive period (3-14 weeks), introducing puppies to diverse experiences like human interaction, environmental stimuli, and positive reinforcement. Programs like Puppy Culture enhance this process through structured protocols such as Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS), problem-solving activities, and gradual stress exposure.
Sub-fertility poses a common challenge in canine reproduction, with sperm quality being a primary concern. To address this, researchers explored the use of micronutrients and additives to enhance sperm quality, focusing on a polyphenolic mix derived from Pinus taeda lignin (PTHL). The study involved 40 male dogs, half of which received PTHL supplementation for 90 days while the other half served as a control group.
Assessing thyroid function in dogs is complex due to various factors affecting hormone levels. Age, breed, physical activity, and medications can influence thyroid hormone concentrations. Additionally, sex hormones, particularly in the estrous cycle, may impact thyroid activity. This study aimed to explore these interactions, focusing on female German Shepherds.
Neonatal mortality is a significant concern in veterinary medicine, and the APGAR scoring scale, commonly used in human medicine since the 1950s, offers a potential solution. This scoring system evaluates the viability of newborns based on five criteria: heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability, and color. Low APGAR scores indicate newborns that require immediate attention and care.
