should be more blokes like him then people just jumping in without a clue ,i only bred twice myself and rest before and after the pups ,i use lactol milk for my bitch just 2 get extra neutrites in her ,if he uses dry food and its got plenty of protein in it then he should,nt change he food ,i would say it could anywere from 1 month to 3 month 2 get her fit again after the pups,just short road work 2 start of with and built her gradulee,main thing not 2 rush,hope i,ve some help....atb...rocky1,,,,