FAQ's

Welcome to our FAQ, we are so happy to have you here.
We have tried to answer the most common questions.

Shipping & Returns

Below are some common questions about shipping and returns.

How long does shipping take?

EZwhelp is committed to shipping orders out within 1-2 business days (99+% go out in 1 business day). Delivery times vary based on shipping address. Check out our UPS Ground Shipment estimation time here. Order are shipped from Atlanta, GA, USA.

***EZwhelp is Closed on Fridays and major holidays. Orders are shipped Monday - Thursday. Orders placed after 12 noon EST on Thursday will be shipped out on Monday.

Where is EZwhelp located?

We are located outside of Atlanta, GA, in the city of Duluth. All orders are fulfilled from our location.

How do I do a return?

If you have a need to return an order or product, please reach out to us via email at customer_service@ezwhelp.com and let us know you would like to start a return. We will provide further instructions about your return via email. Be sure to include your order number in your email.

For our Return Policy, click here.

Why do some orders require a signature upon delivery?

In an effort to protect our customers investment, we do require a signature on all whelping box orders and orders over $300.

We have seen a large increase in porch piracy and the best way to protect us and the customers is to require a signature.

Can I waive the signature requirement on my order?

Yes. We can waive the signature requirement on your order if you request it prior to your order shipping out. After you place your order, email our customer service, customer_service@ezwhelp.com, and declare the following:

"I am requesting that the signature requirement be removed from my order, (order #). I understand that by removing the signature requirement that I am releasing EZwhelp of all responsibility if the package were to be lost or stolen."

Then, give us a call to make sure we received the message and that we get the signature requirement removed.

EZwhelp Products

Below are some common questions about our products

What size whelping box do I need formy breed of dog?

The size of a whelping box depends on the breed of your dog and the number of puppies you expect. The box should provide enough space for the mother to lie comfortably and for the puppies to move around. Ensure there is an exit with low sides for the mother to enter and exit easily, and consider adding a divider to create a separate area for the mother if needed.

To determine the size of the whelping box for your litter, measure your dog from nose to rear end while she lies down. Add 8 inches for pig rails. Your box should be at least that long For example, if she measures 27 inches, the box should be at least 35 inches long (27 + 8). An EZclassic 38x38 or Fab System 3x3 would work. If she measures 46 inches, the box should be at least 54 inches long (46 + 8). Options include the EZclassic 48x76 Tall or Fab System 4x6 or 7x6 (but 48x48 or 4x4 would be too small).

Small Breeds (e.g., hihuahuas, Dachshunds): EZclassic 28"x28" or Fab 3’x3’.

Medium Breeds (e.g., Beagles, Cocker Spaniels): Fab 3’x3’ or EZclassic 38"x38".

Large Breeds (e.g., Labradors, German Shepherds): EZclassic 48"x48",  EZclassic 48"x76",  Fab 4’x4’ or Fab 4’x6’.

Giant Breeds (e.g., Great Danes, Mastiffs): EZclassic 48"x76",  Fab 4’x6’ or Fab 7’x6’.

What comes with an EZwhelp whelping Box?

All EZclassic Whelping Boxes include: Washable/Reusable Whelping Pad and Heavy Duty Canvas Floor Liner, EZclassic "Pig-Rail" Assembly.

All Fab System Whelping Boxes include: Washable/Reusalble Whelping Pad and Heavy Duty Canvas Floor and Panel Liner (including door cover.)

***Fab System Rail Assebly is SOLD SEPARATELY.

What size pad should I get for my box?

All washable/reusable pads tend to shrink some after the first couple washes. Always purchase a pad that is slightly larger than your whelping area.

EZwhelp pads are all marked in the size selection for which box they match up with. Example: 29"x29" Matches EZclassic 28x28 Box; 39.5"x39.5" Matches EZclassic 38x38 Box; 48.5"x48.5" Matches Fab 4x4 Box.
50"x50" Matches EZclassic 48x48 Box.

Are the Pig Rails removable?

Yes! In both the EZclassic and Fab System, the rail assemblies are designed to drop into the whelping box after box is assembled. They can be removed when they are no long required/needed or they can be left in the box.

Can the height of the rails be adjusted?

Absolutely.

EZclassic rails have 3 different heights to choose from by compressing button clips on each rail corner leg piece. Clips are designed with a tight fitting to ensure rails at a taller height will not collapse down with heavy weight.

Fab System rails (excluding the 3x3 rails) include 4 leg pieces with varying heights to choose from when assembling.

Do EZwhelp whelping boxes have a floor?

EZwhelp whelping boxes do have flooring; however, it is not a solid floor. The heavy duty liner is the initial floor of the whelping box along with a whelping/pee pad as the 2nd layer of the floor. Both are a moisture barrier to protect floors.

Can the EZclassic and Fab Systems connect together?

No. The two models are completely different and are not designed to connect to each other.

Do whelping boxes come with heating pads/lamps, or should I buy one separately?

Whelping boxes do not come with a heat lamp or heat pad. However, our Bundle Packages do offer a heat lamp combo as
part of the purchase.

How easy is it to assemble/disassemble the whelping box?

EZwhelp whelping boxes are very easy to assemble. EZclassic boxes do not require any tools for assembly and can be taken apart easily for storage. Fab System Boxes will require simple tools like a screwdriver to secure corner and straight braces with 8 – 12 screws w/nuts.

Can I reuse an EZwhelp whelping box for multiple litters?

Absolutely! EZwhelp boxes are highly durable and designed to last as lifetime whelping boxes. Proper storage and cleaning will ensure the boxes will last for all your litters.

Should I get the EZclassic standard box or the TALL Ezclassic box?

The height of a whelping box will vary from breed to breed and litter to litter. The standard height for a whelping box is 18”. This is perfect for the first 3-4 weeks of a puppies life. As they get older, larger breed puppies will be able to get out of the area.

If the whelping box is going to be used as a containment until the puppies are old enough to go to their forever homes, we recommend our taller 28” height boxes or our Fab boxes (21.5” height) with a mesh cover.

We also recommend add-on rooms to provide the puppies with extra space as they grow.

Can I use the whelping box outside?

EZwhelp boxes are designed for indoor use. We do not recommend the use of whelping boxes outside.

How do I store my whelping box?

We recommend keeping the box the whelping box is shipped in. It works great for storing the whelping box parts after use. Prior to storage, it is important to thoroughly clean and sanitize the whelping box. Keeping the whelping box stored in a emperature/humidity-controlled area is recommended. Exposure to moisture or intense temperature can cause damage to the box.

Does EZwhelp have a storage bag for the whelping box?

There is not a storage bag for the whelping boxes.

How does the water station work and how does it go together?

The EZclassic Water & Food station set comes with a replacement panel specially designed to have water bottles and food dish(es) connected to it. The panel will replace one of the 28” panels of the standard EZclassic box or one of the 38” panels in the Tall EZclassic box.

Can the water and food station work with larger breeds?

Yes. It is available in both our standard height and tall EZclassic models.

What is the difference between your products and someone else’s product?

EZwhelp products are designed from the ground up with breeders and whelping in mind. EZwhelp innovative designs have gone through years of feedback and experience to make adjustments and changes that help to improve the safety and quality of life for the breeders and their breeding line. Products are made with safety, durability and quality in mind.

EZwhelp is not your redesigned garden box, swimming pool, play pen style whelping box. It is common for us to get feedback from customers telling us that they wished they would have started with an EZwhelp box. The other options just didn’t hold up or work as effectively as they thought they would.

Pee Pads

Below are some common questions about pee pads.

What pad is best for my needs and how long do they last?

EZwhelp pads are all made with high quality materials safe to use with infants, children, pets, etc. Pads are OEKO Tex Standard 100 Certified.

Some pads are slightly more absorbent than others and some may dry faster than others. Which pad is best for you? That depends on the size of pad you need. They are all quality.

Pads will last for hundreds of washes over many years is washed and dried properly.

What are pee pads, and how do they work?

EZwhelp’s washable/reusable pee pads are an absorbent multilayer pad designed to draw in liquids from the top surface and also act as a barrier keeping the floor underneath dry. They are designed with a top and bottom fabric layer with an internal soaker layer to absorb and hold liquid and an internal PU layer to block liquids from reaching the floor underneath

Why should I use pee pads for my dog?

Using washable or reusable pee pads for your dog offers several benefits:

Cost-Effective: While the initial investment may be higher, they save money over time compared to constantly buying disposable pads.

Environmentally Friendly: Reduces waste by minimizing single-use plastic and paper products.

Comfort: Often made from softer materials, they can be more comfortable for your dog compared to disposable pads.

Durability: Designed to withstand multiple washes, they can be more resilient than disposables.

Absorbency: Many washable pads have superior absorbent materials that can handle more liquid.

Customizable: You can choose sizes, colors, and styles that fit your dog's needs.

Training Aid: They can help with house training by providing a consistent spot for your dog to go.

Easier Clean-Up: Just toss them in the washing machine rather than dealing with messy disposables.

Overall, washable pads can be a practical, sustainable, and comfortable option for managing your dog's needs.

How often should I change the pee pad?

Solids should be cleaned up off the pads immediately upon noticing to help keep the overall cleanliness of the whelping box and puppies. Mess can spread pretty quick with their active paws.

Frequency of changing the pads will depend upon the size of the litter. We have breeders tell us they change that as little at once a day or as much as 4 times a day.

The important thing is to keep the area clean and sanitary as much as possible. It’s not an easy job.

Can I use pee pads for an adult dog?

Yes. The pads can be used for dogs of any age. They work great to cover/protect furniture, under water/food dishes, etc. Pads are also suitable for use by other pets and good as a mattress/bed pad to protect mattresses.

How do I stop my dog from chewing or shredding the pee pads?

To stop your dog from chewing or shredding pee pads, try the following strategies:

Supervision: Keep a close eye on your dog when they’re near the pads. Redirect their attention if they start to chew.

Socialization and Play: Provide plenty of chew toys or safe lternatives to satisfy their chewing instinct as well as interactive toys and play time.

Taste deterrents: Use a pet-safe bitter spray on the pads to discourage chewing.

Positive reinforcement: Reward your dog for using the pads appropriately without chewing.

Routine and training: Establish a consistent routine for bathroom breaks and train your dog to understand that the pads are for elimination only.

Limit access: If possible, confine the pads to an area where your dog can’t shred them when unsupervised.

Different type of pad: Consider using washable or thicker pads that might be less appealing to chew.

Consult a vet or trainer: If the behavior persists, consult a vet to rule out any underlying issues or a trainer for behavioral advice.

With patience and consistency, you can help your dog learn to leave the pee pads alone!

Are pee pads safe for puppies?

Absolutely. All EZwhelp pads are OEKO Tex Standard 100 Certified and safe for use by animals and humans.

Laundering and Cleaning

Below are some common questions about pee pads.

How do I keep the whelping box clean and sanitary?

Keeping a whelping box clean and sanitary is essential for the health of both the mother and her puppies. Here are some tips to maintain a clean environment:

Line the Box: Use absorbent EZwhelp Washable/Reusable pee pads/whelping pads. Change these regularly to minimize odors and bacteria.

Clean Regularly: Spot clean the whelping box several times a day. Remove soiled bedding and waste promptly.

Sanitize: Deep clean the box with a pet-safe disinfectant after each litter or if it becomes heavily soiled. Rinse thoroughly to remove any residue.

Control Temperature and Humidity: Ensure the environment is comfortable for the mother and puppies, as excessive moisture can lead to bacteria growth.

Monitor the Mother: Keep an eye on the mother for any signs of infection or health issues. A healthy mother helps ensure a clean environment.

Limit Access: Restrict access to the whelping area to minimize the introduction of dirt and contaminants.

Provide Clean Water and Food:
Ensure fresh water and clean food are available to the mother to promote her health and the health of her puppies.

How do you wash the pads/liners?

Pads and liners are machine washable. Do not use chlorine bleach or fabric softeners. We recommend cold water and tumble dry low. Some shrinking is expected with the first few washes. Excessive heat will cause the pads or liners to shrink more than normal.

If air drying pads or liners, we discourage hanging on outdoor decking/patios with direct sunlight exposure. Decks/patios often retain heat and get to high temperatures. That will cause the pads or liners to shrink more than normal. Hanging/line drying is a better option.

Do pee pads have an odor?

Some customers have experienced the pads retaining odor after washing. This can be resolved.

When cleaning a soiled pad with odor, we recommend first running the pad through a rinse cycle in the washing machine
and then proceed with a regular wash cycle. Also try to make the “top” of the pad face the outside of the washing machine drum. When the drain/spin cycle runs, this will allow more of the water to be pushed out of the pad. If the “top” facing more to the center, the water hits the moisture barrier and rather than easily being pushed out of the pad, it gets forced sideways and not as much water gets out of the pad.

Distilled vinegar or other odor eliminating products can be used during the wash cycle.

Whelping Box and Setup Basics

Below are common/general questions about whelping boxes, whelping setups, and whelping.

What is a whelping box, and why do I need one?

A whelping box is a designated space for a dog to give birth and care for her puppies. It provides a safe, comfortable, and clean environment for the mother and her newborns. Here are some reasons why you need one:

Safety: It keeps the puppies safe from hazards and allows the mother to move around without accidentally harming them.

Comfort: The box provides a cozy area for the mother to nest and give birth, which can reduce stress for her and the puppies.

Hygiene: A whelping box can be easily cleaned, helping to maintain a sanitary environment for the puppies during their vulnerable early days.

Control: It helps to contain the puppies, preventing them from wandering off or getting lost.

Observation: It allows you to monitor the mother and puppies closely, ensuring their health and safety during the crucial first weeks.

Overall, a whelping box is essential for a smooth and safe birthing process.

How long should my puppies use the whelping box?

Puppies typically use the whelping box for the first 3 to 4 weeks of their lives. During this time, they are dependent on
their mother for nursing and warmth. As they begin to grow and explore, you can gradually introduce them to a larger space around 4 weeks, allowing them to play and socialize more. By about 6 to 8 weeks, they should be transitioning fully out of the whelping box into a more spacious area.

What temperature should the whelping box be?

The ideal temperature for a whelping box is typically around 80-85°F (27-30°C). This warmth helps the puppies, which are unable to regulate their body temperature well, stay comfortable and safe. It's important to monitor the temperature closely and adjust as needed, especially since newborn puppies can easily become too cold or overheated. Using a heat lamp or heating pad can help maintain the right temperature, but make sure there are areas where the puppies can move away from the heat if they get too warm.

What features should I look for in a whelping box to ensure puppy safety?

When choosing a whelping box for puppy safety, consider the following features:

Size: Ensure the box is spacious enough for the mother and her puppies.

Sturdy Construction: Look for a box made from durable, non-toxic materials that can withstand the weight of the mother and the puppies.

Easy to Clean: Opt for materials that are easy to disinfect to maintain hygiene.

Removable Divider: A removable or adjustable divider can help create a safe space for the puppies as they grow, separating them from the mother if needed.

Non-Slip Base: A box with a non-slip surface can help prevent the mother from slipping, especially when she is giving birth or nursing.

Access Points: Ensure there are low entry points for the mother to get in and out easily, as well as enough space for the puppies to escape from the mother if needed.

Should I include bedding in the whelping box?

You want to be cautious of adding bedding to the whelping box. Additional bedding increases the risk of a puppy getting buried in the bedding and suffocating. We do not recommend anything beyond the following in the whelping box with the puppies: washable/reusable whelping/pee pad, pig rail assembly, liner under the whelping pad.

If additional bedding is used, constant observation is required to ensure the safety of the litter.

Are there specific add-ons or accessories recommended for whelping boxes?

Rail Assemblies, Pig Rails, are a must for every whelping box. A heating solution is also highly recommended.

Add-on rooms are great for creating a space for the mother to escape in the early days post whelp. They double as an expanded play area as the puppies grow.

Water and food solutions will be needed as the puppies wean. Corner seats are helpful. Window panels are convenient for being able to keep an eye on the whelping area.

How can I help my dog feel comfortable and safe in the whelping box?

To help your dog feel comfortable and safe in the whelping box, consider the following tips:

Set up early: Set up the whelping box/area a couple weeks ahead of whelping. This allows time for the area to become familiar and comfortable.

Choose the Right Location: Place the whelping box in a quiet, low-traffic area away from loud noises and distractions.

Ensure Proper Size: The box should be spacious enough for your dog to lie down omfortably and turn around, but small enough to create a cozy space for the puppies.

Provide Privacy: Cover the box partially with a blanket or tarp to give your dog a sense of security while still allowing for ventilation.

Temperature Control: Keep the area warm but not too hot. A heat source, like a heat lamp or heating pad, can help, but ensure it’s safe and won’t cause overheating.

Limit Interference: Minimize the number of people and other pets around the whelping box, especially during the birthing process.

Regular Check-ins: Spend time near the box to provide comfort; but, give her space if she seems to want solitude.

Provide Food and Water: Keep her food and water accessible nearby so she doesn’t have to venture far.

Maintain Cleanliness: Regularly clean the box to prevent any hygiene issues that could stress her out.

Monitor for Stress Signs: Watch for signs of anxiety and be ready to intervene gently if she seems stressed or uncomfortable.

Creating a calm, nurturing environment will help your dog feel more at ease as she prepares to whelp.

What are the pig rails for and why do I need them?

Pig rails are horizontal bars installed in the whelping box. They serve several important purposes:

Preventing Injuries: Pig rails help prevent puppies from getting stuck against the walls, reducing the risk of injury.

Providing Support: They offer a support structure for mom and puppies during nursing, helping to ensure that puppies can feed safely without being squished.

What is the purpose of an add on room?

Add-on rooms are great for many reasons and serve many purposes: providing a separate area of escapes for momma dog; provide separate potty area as the puppies grow; provide additional areas for the puppies to run around and play.

Other Questions

Where can I learn more about dog breeding?

When first learning about dog breeding, it is important to find a mentor, a breeder with years of experience that can help answer questions along the way.

There are numberous online forums and groups on social media that are great resources for learning from others and even looking for a mentor.

For interest in the preservation of your breed, we recommend looking at the Better Breeder Institute and learning about their Better Breeder Directory.

DISCLAIMER: EZwhelp is dedicated to the health and safety of momma dogs and their litters throughout the whelping process. We support responsible breeding and avoiding overpopulation. We also encourage adoption from from local shelters.

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