What should you expect while your dog is pregnant? Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions about the stages of a dog’s pregnancy, also called gestation.
How long does a dog’s pregnancy last?
Pregnancy in dogs usually lasts 63 days (about nine weeks), but this duration can vary from 58 to 68 days.
Although estrus (heat cycle) can vary from breed to breed, the normal gestation period falls within the same range for all dogs, regardless of breed.
What are the signs of pregnancy in dogs?
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Most women show no signs of pregnancy during the first few weeks. It will be difficult to determine soon if she is pregnant. The signs usually appear in the second trimester (around three weeks of pregnancy).
Nausea and vomiting (morning sickness) are less common, but may occur in some quadrupeds around days 21-25 due to hormonal changes.
Some weight gain can be observed as early as the 21st day of pregnancy. By day 35 the weight gain tends to become more noticeable and will continue throughout the pregnancy.
Your dog may develop a clear or mucoid discharge from the vulva in about 30 days of pregnancy.
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The nipples may become more prominent (erect and pink) around day 25-30 due to increased blood supply. Then, around day 40, the mammary glands usually begin to enlarge. A small amount of clear discharge may come out of the nipples.
Abdominal distension is usually seen around day 40 of pregnancy. As your due date approaches, you may even notice puppies moving around in her abdomen.
NOTE: Signs of pregnancy can vary from dog to dog (and even between pregnancies in the same dog). Be sure to involve your vet along the way. Contact your veterinarian if you are concerned about the signs your dog is showing.
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How do I know if my dog is pregnant?
If you suspect you have a pregnant female dog, you should contact your veterinarian’s office to schedule an appointment. Schedule a visit to the vet approximately three weeks after the day of suspected conception. At that time, the veterinarian may perform an ultrasound depending on the available technology (ultrasound is the preferred method in the initial phase).
Your vet may also want to check blood levels for the presence of relaxin, a hormone found only in pregnant dogs. This test should be performed between days 21 and 25 of the suspected pregnancy. Later, around day 45, your vet may recommend x-rays so you can find out the number of puppies before giving birth.
What does a pregnant woman need?
There are some changes you will need to make to care for a pregnant woman. The expectant mother will need a source of nutrition to support growth. You will also need to visit the vet a few times to monitor your dog’s health. Exercise should be adapted to ensure that the pregnant woman does not become exhausted, but does not become sedentary.
How can I help a female give birth?
Fortunately, most dogs can go through labor and give birth to (fetus) healthy puppies with little to no help from humans. Instinct guides mothers, but you can help her and her puppies stay safe and comfortable. Gather some basic supplies and prepare them before the big day. When your dog goes into labor, simply watch and wait. You may or may not need to step in and help the female and her pups. Your vet or an experienced dog breeder can give you advice and support.
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What if the pregnancy was an accident?
If you are not prepared, it can be very tiring to care for a pregnant female and prepare for the birth of the puppies. It also takes time and dedication to help raise puppies. You may not be ready for these challenges. The truth is that there is a dog overpopulation problem.
Animal shelters euthanize healthy dogs every day. If whelping is not desired, consider spaying the pregnant dog (and thus terminating the pregnancy). This can be done safely and humanely, but it is best and safest to do it early in pregnancy. Talk to your vet if you need help making the right decision for you and your puppy.
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