A Simple Guide to Choosing a Whelping Box

Whether you already have experience in dog breeding or not, one of the most essential pieces of gear you should stock up on is the whelping cage, also known as a whelping box and pen. This box is literally one of the safest places for dog mothers-to-be and one of the first things you should have in your home. According to experienced dog breeders, these boxes allow a pregnant dog to deliver her babies safely and with comfort.

A box of this kind is beneficial for both sides, yours and your dog breeder, because there, your dog (and its puppies later on) will feel safe all the time, and for you because you’ll have peace of mind that none of the puppies will be able to escape and put itself in harm’s way.

Types

Ideally, you should stock up on this amazing box during your dog’s pregnancy so it can get used to it and feel safe. The choice of these boxes is huge, so finding a secure and safe whelping cage for your dog would be easy, as long as you consider all types available on the market.

Plastic PVC Boxes

Boxes/cages made from plastic and PVC are certainly one of the most popular models for the most obvious reasons: their price and weight. Even though they are made of plastic, these cages are super durable. They are also non-porous, easy to disinfect and move around, making them one of the most favoured options by both home and professional breeders. Given the fact that plastic cannot absorb any liquids, it makes it the most hygienic type of box so far. Cleaning them is super easy as you can wash, rinse and clean them with the needed disinfectant. When searching for the right model for your needs, make sure to look for one coming from trusted and reputable brands that offer a reusable heavy-duty cage. This allows you to use it for a longer period of time.

Mesh and Wire playpens

While the aforementioned types of cages are mainly enclosed and you cannot see anything when looking from the side, these allow you to see what’s going on inside them from anywhere in the room. The open-mesh and collapsible wire playpens are either sold separately and can be added next to a whelping box, or they’re used separately once the puppies outgrow the initial whelping box. In case you plan to invest in a wire playpen solely, you’ll need to adjust it by adding a plastic or wooden insert for the actual birth. Otherwise, you risk investing in a playpen that you cannot use once the dog gives birth to its puppies.  

Wooden Boxes

These boxes are another popular option for breeders because of their natural warmth and the cosy home-like feel. But since wood can absorb liquid and odour easily, these boxes should be sealed and painted in order to be disinfected. Otherwise, it would be impossible to clean, disinfect and use them as they’d be a source of bacteria.

Modular/Custom Panels

Last but not least, the type you can invest in is the interlocking panel system boxes that allow you to adjust the size of the box as you need. For instance, when they’re smaller, you can keep the box smaller as well, and when they grow a bit, you can make it bigger so they have enough space to play.  

Where to Place It?

Living Room or Family Room

Placing the box in the corner of a living or family room is one of the best places to place it. That’s because you have complete control over the dog and its puppies, plus you can have complete control over the lighting. This is essential, especially when the mother dog is in labour, and needs a soothing and lower light environment. Too bright or too dark a room can make the labour more stressful for the dog mother. Plus, being in a room like this makes the dog mother feel like being a part of the family and included in every family activity, which will reduce the chances of developing anxiety or some other disorder.

Spare Bathroom

If you are lucky enough to have a spare bathroom, then you can easily place the box there and give your future dog mother a sense of privacy. Plus, these places are easier to sanitise, as they can be washed, rinsed and sanitised with a special disinfectant. Just don't forget to take another important thing into account, the bathroom's stable temperature and proper ventilation.

Bedroom

Even though not all dog owners prefer this, placing the box in the bedroom is also an option, as it allows you to have total control over everything that’s going on. Plus, you’ll be able to monitor your dog, its labour and puppies even at night.