What should I expect/prepare for if my dog becomes pregnant?

Well, first of all, dogs don't get health issues simply because they aren't allowed get pregnant. But, they can get behavioral issues related to mating seasons and hormonal imbalances.

Also, it is important to understand that if you do not plan to breed your Chow, it's simply best to have her spayed. It's a scientific fact that by spaying them before their first heat will have them live a healthier life.

So back to the tips on dog pregnancy. Let me see.

1. Vet Bills. Your Chow will require more vet visits due to her pregnancy. Also, once she's have them born, you also might want to invest on the expenses for their initial vaccinations. The vet might also require you special vitamins for your Chow's pregnancy.

2. Avoiding the Mess. Chows have thick fur. Expect that you won't be able to bathe her for the first couple of weeks so it's best that you have some of her fur cut short. Bringing her to a groomers might bring too much stress, so if you're able to do this on your own, then you might as well do so.

3. Whelping Box. You'll need to encourage your Chow to make use of a whelping box because dogs can give birth to their pups in places you don't want them to, especially areas that are closed, dark and difficult to reach (like under the bed, under the house and the likes).

4. Birthing Time. Dogs usually give birth during the early hours of the morning or the late hours of the evening.

5. Feeding. For the first day, your dog might be too busy to with her pups and too tired from her delivery, so you might want to bring the food and water bowl close to her but not inside the whelping box where the pups are.

6. Space. Although some dogs allow their owners to have their pups touched, others can grow overprotective. So be careful. If there's no need to touch her puppies on the first days, don't.