1300 489 873Breeding in winter comes with its own set of challenges — especially when it comes to keeping new-born pups cosy and thriving. In Australia, June to August can bring colder nights, damp air, and hidden parasite risks.
Whether you’re an experienced breeder or prepping for your first winter litter, here’s how to make sure your pups (and their mums) stay healthy, warm, and on track.
1. Create a Warm Whelping Setup
New-born puppies can’t regulate their body temperature in the first few weeks, which means the warmth of their environment is critical.
Here’s what works best:
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Use vet bedding raised off cold floors (on pallets or foam mats).
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Place a safe heat pad under blankets (avoid direct contact with the pups).
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Keep the area draft-free by using rolled towels or barriers around the whelping pen.
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Maintain room temperature between 26°C and 28°C for the first few weeks, then gradually reduce.
Check bedding daily for damp spots and rotate fresh fleece or towels as needed.
2. Feed for Energy and Warmth
Cold weather = higher energy needs. Mums burn more calories nursing, and pups need extra nutrition to stay warm and grow.
Feeding tips:
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Feed nursing mums a high-quality puppy or lactation formula.
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Offer food more frequently to support increased calorie demands.
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For weaning litters, warm their puppy mush or kibble with a little warm water.
If hand-rearing, always serve formula at body temperature and monitor pup weights daily.
3. Don’t Skip Parasite Prevention
Even in winter, fleas and ticks can stick around — especially in insulated kennels, carpeted areas, or bedding.
Keep prevention going with:
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Monthly flea and tick control (check product guidelines for pups)
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Fortnightly worming for puppies up to 12 weeks old, then monthly
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Daily bedding changes to reduce hidden parasite load
Parasites love warmth and moisture, so winter litters are still at risk even indoors.
4. Keep Mum Comfortable
Colder temperatures can take a toll on your breeding mum too.
Watch for:
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Signs of mastitis (swelling, heat, or pain in the teats)
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Stiffness or limping, especially in large breeds
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Loss of appetite or signs of discomfort while nursing
Support her recovery with warm bedding, extra calories, and regular gentle checks. If anything feels off, speak to your vet early.
5. Focus on Gentle Socialisation
Even in cooler weather, pups need exposure to sights and sounds to grow into confident dogs.
Easy indoor socialisation ideas:
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Introduce household sounds like vacuums, TVs, and washing machines
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Short handling sessions (paws, ears, teeth) to build trust
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Calm interactions with other household members and kids
Keep sessions short, warm, and positive — and return pups to their whelping area after.
Wrap-Up
Winter breeding can absolutely be safe and successful — it just takes a little more planning and care. The extra effort pays off in healthier, happier litters.
If you’d like a printable winter care checklist or need help updating your puppy handover packs, just get in touch with us. We’re here to support you year-round.
