Signs Your Dog May Be Pregnant: How to Tell If a Dog Is Expecting

Signs Your Dog May Be Pregnant

If you suspect your dog may be pregnant, there are some clear signs and symptoms to look out for. Changes in behavior, physical appearance, appetite, and energy levels can all indicate that a dog is expecting puppies.

Dogs go through a series of transformations during the roughly 63 day gestation period. Recognizing these changes helps ensure your pregnant pooch gets the extra care she needs for a healthy pregnancy and delivery.

Early Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs

During the first few weeks of pregnancy, physical and behavioral shifts are usually subtle as the fetuses are still tiny and the dogs body adjusts to being expecting. Watch for:

• Decreased activity levels.
• Less interest in toys or play.
• Mildly enlarged or pink nipples.
• Intermittent vomiting.
• Increased affection or need for attention.

These early signs typically develop during weeks 1-4 of pregnancy but are not conclusive proof of puppies just yet.

Mid-Term Pregnancy Indicators

Around weeks 4-5, indicators become more distinct as developing puppies enlarge the abdomen area:

• Visible weight gain, especially around the middle.
• Distended, firm belly.
• Enlarged teats.
• Increased appetite.
• Possible mild moodiness or restlessness.

These mid-term changes make pregnancy harder to miss. An expanding belly, enlarge teats and voracious appetite are clear giveaways.

Late Pregnancy Signs

The most obvious physical and behavioral changes emerge during the final third of pregnancy from weeks 6-9:

• Significantly enlarged abdomen and milk-laden teats.
• Noticeable movement of puppies in the belly.
• Enlarged nipple area and mammary glands.
• Dip in energy levels and increased sleep.
• Sudden behavior changes like nesting or mothering toys.

By the last couple weeks, your dogs pregnant status will be unmistakable. Her priority now is preparing for the pending puppy arrivals.

Physical Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs

A dogs body goes through many transformations during pregnancy as it accommodates the developing litter. Here are some of the most notable physical changes.

Increased Appetite

One of the earliest signs of dog pregnancy is an increased appetite. Eating more supports the caloric needs of pregnancy and nursing.

Dogs typically require 1.5 times their normal intake in the first half of pregnancy and two times their usual intake in the second half.

Feed your expecting dog high-quality puppy food split into multiple meals throughout the day to help accommodate nutritional needs.

Weight Gain and Enlarged Abdomen

A noticeably expanding midsection is an obvious indicator of puppies. Your dogs waistline will expand as the pregnancy progresses.

Weight gain typically becomes visible around week 4. Your vet can estimate litter size based on abdominal enlargement.

Use a measuring tape to track belly growth week-to-week. Providing extra treats and meals helps support your dogs increased caloric requirements.

Enlarged or Discolored Nipples

Hormonal shifts cause changes in the teats and mammary glands as the body prepares for milk production.

You may notice enlarged or darkened nipples as early as 1-2 weeks into pregnancy. The nipples and surrounding breast tissue will continue expanding throughout gestation.

Healthy nipple discharge may occur near the end of pregnancy. Gently clean nipples with a warm, damp cloth to keep the area clean.

Morning Sickness

Similar to human pregnancy, dog morning sickness can occur due to hormonal fluctuations. The severity varies between dogs.

Signs of morning sickness include lethargy, lack of appetite, and vomiting that occurs intermittently over the first few weeks of pregnancy.

Provide bland foods like rice, bread, or boiled chicken during periods of vomiting. Consult your vet if sickness persists or seems severe.

Increased Urination

Pressure from the expanding uterus puts extra strain on the bladder causing more frequent urination.

During the mid to late stages of pregnancy, you may notice your dog needing to pee more often. Be sure to provide ample outdoor potty breaks.

Increased urination can also be a sign of a urinary tract infection, so contact your vet if it seems excessive or painful.

Possibility of Discharge

A whitish or light green discharge may occur during pregnancy, especially nearing delivery as the cervix dilates.

Notify your veterinarian immediately if the discharge seems excessive or has a foul odor, as that can indicate placental problems or a dangerous uterine infection.

Healthy discharge is typically odorless and tapers off after a day or two. Clean the genital area gently if needed.

Relaxed Muscles and Ligaments

To accommodate giving birth, the pelvic muscles and ligaments naturally relax during pregnancy.

You may notice your dogs hindquarters or bell seem wider and lower. Spread or splayed legs are also common.

These changes can temporarily impair mobility and lead to waddling or awkward gait. Gentle exercise remains important to strengthen muscles.

Fetal Movement

Around day 45, you may be able to see and feel the fetuses moving inside the womb if you gently palpate the abdomen.

Puppies are very active at this stage, though be cautious not to apply deep pressure, which can harm them.

Fetal activity confirms pregnancy as few other conditions cause visible abdominal movements. These are joyful signs that puppies are nearing birth.

Behavioral Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs

In addition to physical changes, your dogs habits and personality may also shift when expecting puppies. Here are some common behavioral signs of pregnancy.

Decreased Activity

Romping and play are replaced by lots of sleep and rest as energy reserves go toward the developing litter.

Its natural for your active pooch to suddenly become more sedentary and sleepy. Make sure she gets gentle walks and light exercise daily.

Nesting Behavior

Late in pregnancy, that maternal instinct kicks in and your dog may start nesting behaviors. These include digging at blankets, collecting toys, and hoarding bedding materials.

To satisfy the nesting urge safely, provide a cozy box with old blankets that she can fluff and dig into.

Protectiveness

As hormone levels shift, most dogs become more protective late in pregnancy. They also tend to avoid boisterous dogs and people.

Be watchful of protectiveness that seems excessive and may require training. But in most cases, this instinct subsides after the litter arrives.

Mellow Disposition

Surging pregnancy hormones lead to some mood changes. Your formerly energetic girl may seem more mellow and placid.

This calmer demeanor helps conserve her energy for the demands of labor, nursing, and taking care of puppies.

Clinginess

Many pregnant dogs become more affectionate and attached to their owners as the big day nears.

Make sure to spend quality time together snuggling and pampering your pooch during the final pregnancy stage.

Loss of Appetite

While appetite increases over most of pregnancy, its common for dogs to lose interest in food a day or two before labor begins.

Dont panic if your pooch refuses meals right before delivery. Shell regain her appetite after the puppies arrive.

Agitation

Some dogs may seem restless, pace, shiver, or pant heavily shortly before going into labor as contractions start.

These are normal responses to the hormonal fluctuations and uterine contractions happening internally.

How Long Are Dogs Pregnant?

The average dog pregnancy lasts 63 days from conception to delivery. There are three distinct stages, each approximately 21 days long.

First Trimester

This initial stage lasts from conception until around day 21. During this time the fertilized eggs travel to the uterus for implantation as the fetuses develop placentas.

You are unlikely to observe any visible signs this early. Some dogs experience a small amount of vomiting.

Second Trimester

The period from weeks 3-6 marks rapid fetal growth. The embryos develop into fetuses with distinct structures and organs.

Morning sickness subsides while appetite increases. Your dogs waistline starts expanding around week 4.

Third Trimester

The final three weeks are when puppies grow the fastest and prepare for birth. Mama dogs breasts enlarge noticeably as milk gland production activates.

You may see the fetuses moving inside the belly. Pelvic muscles relax and nesting urges intensify during this final countdown.

Options for Confirming Dog Pregnancy

Symptoms give a strong indication of pregnancy, but vet exams and imaging provide definitive confirmation.

Palpation

An abdominal palpation lets vets feel for physiological signs of pregnancy, though accuracy depends on timing.

Around day 28, enlarged uterine horns are detectable. Fetuses themselves can be felt starting around day 35 when the skeletons have hardened.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound scan from your vet provides visual confirmation of fetuses. Detecting heartbeats confirms pregnancy.

Ultrasounds can be done starting around day 20-25 and allow vets to estimate litter sizes.

X-Rays

Abdominal x-rays show developing bones starting around day 45. The number of spines indicates how many puppies to expect.

Some vets and owners decline x-rays due to minimal radiation exposure risks. Discuss the benefits and drawbacks with your vet.

Blood Tests

A blood test checks for the hormone relaxin, which is produced during pregnancy. This method confirms pregnancy around day 21-25.

Some breeders check blood regularly to pinpoint optimal breeding windows based on hormone levels.

Timing Method

Knowing exactly when breeding occurred makes predicting due dates possible without medical tests. Delivery typically happens 58-68 days later.

Since dogs ovulate before their heat period ends, the breeding date may be earlier than expected if exact records werent kept.

Caring for a Pregnant Dog

Providing attentive care throughout pregnancy promotes good health for mama and puppies.

High Quality Nutrition

Feed your pregnant pooch premium puppy food or another nutrient dense diet. Multiple smaller meals accommodate her increased hunger.

Exercise

Continue daily short leash walks and slow play sessions. Swimming and gentle exercise keep muscles healthy without overexertion.

Maintain Weight

Follow your vet's recommendations for weight gain during pregnancy. Extra calories should come from diets high in natural nutrition, not treats.

Regular Vet Visits

Schedule regular checkups to monitor mom's progression plus fetal heart rate and growth after ultrasounds confirm pregnancy.

Dental Care

Hormonal changes increase the risk of periodontal disease in pregnant dogs. Brush regularly and schedule a vet dental cleaning if needed.

Grooming

Bathe and brush your dog normally during pregnancy. Gently clean rear and mammary areas if needed, especially near delivery.

Massage

Gently rub mama dog's belly, back, and feet to relieve muscle tension. Always avoid deep pressure on the abdomen.

Monitor Litter Size

Large litters may require C-section delivery for safety. Discuss options with your vet if ultrasounds show more than 8-10 puppies.

Prepare Whelping Area

Set up a private, cozy space with fresh bedding, potty pads, and easy access to food and water as your dog's due date approaches.

When to Call the Vet

While most canine pregnancies are smooth, contact your vet promptly about any concerning symptoms, such as:

• Green or foul-smelling discharge
• Difficulty defecating/urinating
• Refusal to eat for over 24 hours
• Pale gums or vomiting
• Shaking, panting, restlessness
• Signs of miscarriage
• Strong contractions with no puppy produced after 1 hour
• More than 4 hours of strong contractions without a puppy

Monitoring your dog closely and consulting a vet at the first sign of trouble can prevent complications and ensure a healthy pregnancy.

Preparing for Imminent Dog Birth

As your pooch nears her due date, have supplies for the birth and puppies on hand, such as:

• Whelping box
• Extra bedding
• Heating pad
• Hot water bottle
• Thermometer
• Detailed birth plan and emergency numbers
• Emergency vet fund

Make sure your dog feels comfortable and secure in the designated birthing space. Never leave a laboring dog unattended for long stretches.

With supportive care and attentive monitoring, you can help your pregnant pooch welcome a lively, healthy litter of puppies.

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.