Signs Your Dog May Be Pregnant
If you suspect your dog may be pregnant, there are some clear signs to look for. Changes in behavior, appetite, and physical appearance occur as dog pregnancy progresses. Knowing what to expect helps you provide attentive care during this vulnerable time.
Possible pregnancy should be on your radar if an intact female dog was exposed to an intact male during her heat cycle. Pregnancy lasts around 63 days on average. The most noticeable changes happen in the final 3-4 weeks as the puppies grow.
Being alert to signs of dog pregnancy allows you to schedule an exam, prep supplies, and modify care to support your dog's health and comfort. Here is what to watch for if you think your dog may be expecting puppies.
Physical Signs
- Enlarged or darkened nipples - Around day 25, nipples grow and pink up as mammary glands prepare for milk production.
- Weight gain - Gradual abdominal swelling signals puppy growth. Weight gain is most noticeable the last 3 weeks.
- Morning sickness - Mild vomiting due to hormonal shifts can occur early on, before other signs.
- Abdominal swelling - The belly droops and widens around day 45 as puppies take up room.
- Nesting behavior - Pregnant dogs may lay in closet corners or under tables, seeking a safe den.
Behavioral Signs
- Appetite changes - Hormones and puppy growth spur increased hunger later in pregnancy.
- Lethargy - Fatigue sets in during the final weeks as the litter's size and movements increase.
- Guarding behavior - Some dogs become more protective of their abdomen when pregnant.
- Digging or restlessness - Instinct to dig a den for the birth drives these behaviors.
- Social changes - Dog may become more attention-seeking or withdrawn as hormones shift.
Confirming Pregnancy
If you notice any possible signs, take your dog to the vet for an exam to confirm pregnancy. Palpation of the abdomen is the most reliable method for diagnosis. Ultrasound may also be used.
Blood tests can check for the hormone relaxin, produced by developing placentas, but results are not always conclusive. X-rays taken late in pregnancy can count skeletons but risk harming puppies with radiation.
Your vet will estimate how far along your dog is based on symptoms and projected breeding dates. An exam also identifies any health issues requiring treatment before delivery.
When to Confirm Pregnancy
- First heat if unplanned - Confirm early to discuss spay options or prepare for litter.
- 3-4 weeks after breeding - Relaxin can be detected to verify mating succeeded.
- Over 5 weeks after breeding - Palpation and ultrasound give best results for counting puppies.
While puppies feel like small lumps during palpation starting around 4 weeks, the skeletons are too soft to count accurately before 5 weeks. Visualizing heartbeats via ultrasound is more definitive after this point.
Caring for a Pregnant Dog
Once pregnancy is confirmed, you can modify care to meet your dog's changing needs during gestation and minimize risks.
Nutrition
Boosting calories, nutrients, and feedings supports healthy fetal growth. Food intake typically rises around week 5 and peaks late in pregnancy.
- Feed puppy or performance formula dog foods
- Increase meals to 3-4x daily
- Avoid feeding right before or after exercise
- Prevent obesity; consult your vet on weight goals
Exercise
Moderate exercise remains healthy but intense activity should be avoided to prevent injuries.
- Take moderate walks daily
- Avoid jumping or roughhousing
- No intense running or agility workouts
- Watch for signs of fatigue or discomfort
Health Supplements
Prenatal vitamins support fetal health. Certain oils boost brain & bone development.
- Prenatal vitamin with iron and calcium
- Omega fatty acid supplements
- Probiotics for digestive health
- Increased protein for building tissue
Always consult your vet before giving supplements to avoid toxicity or interactions.
Veterinary Care
Regular checkups ensure mom and puppies stay healthy.
- Monthly exams until week 7-8
- Twice monthly exams until birth
- Discuss birthing plans with your vet
- Address any concerns about mom's health
Monitoring urine, weight, fetal heartbeats, and supplement levels provides optimal care.
Preparing
FAQs
How long are dogs pregnant before giving birth?
The normal pregnancy length in dogs is around 63 days from the date of breeding. Delivery usually occurs between days 59-65 but may start a few days earlier or later.
What does a pregnant dog's belly feel like?
Around 3-4 weeks after conception, a vet should be able to feel small grape-sized lumps in the dog's abdomen upon gentle palpation. These represent the developing puppies embedded in the uterus.
Do pregnant dogs need special food?
It's recommended to feed pregnant dogs puppy or performance formula dog foods that are higher in calories, protein, calcium, and other nutrients to support fetal growth. Meals should be increased starting about mid-pregnancy.
How do you know when a pregnant dog is ready to deliver?
In the final week of pregnancy, look for signs of impending labor like nesting behavior, temperature drops, lack of appetite, vaginal discharge changes, and abdominal contractions.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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