Dog Pregnancy Symptoms You Should Know If You Suspect Your Pup Is Expecting

Puppies!

By Jamie Morgan
Updated: March 21, 2022
Originally Published: November 29, 2021

Many pet owners choose to spay their dogs, but some may take in strays or opt against surgery for various reasons. If your furry friend has had an encounter with a male dog, there’s a good chance she could be pregnant at some point in her life. While seasoned breeders are familiar with the signs of canine pregnancy, many of us might not know what to look for when our beloved dogs are expecting. Fortunately, there are several indicators that can help you determine if your dog is pregnant.

Once you suspect your dog is pregnant, you might wonder when she is due and what you should do to care for her during this time. Thankfully, you can find all the information you need right here!

Common Signs of Dog Pregnancy

Just like humans, dogs exhibit early signs of pregnancy. However, a dog’s gestation period is significantly shorter, lasting only about 58 to 68 days. Here are some symptoms to watch for:

Weeks 2 to 3: In the early stages of pregnancy, you may notice your dog’s nipples becoming enlarged and/or turning a pinkish color as her body begins to prepare for nursing.
Weeks 4 to 5: As your dog’s pregnancy progresses, you will likely see physical changes. Her abdomen may start to swell, similar to how human mothers change shape.

Additional Symptoms of Canine Pregnancy

Mood Swings: If your typically affectionate dog is suddenly seeking solitude, it may indicate pregnancy. On the flip side, she might also be more clingy. Just like human pregnancies can lead to emotional ups and downs, the same can happen with dogs.
Decreased Energy: Carrying a litter of puppies can be exhausting for your dog. She may exhibit lower energy levels as she adjusts to her new condition.
Paler Gums: You can often assess a dog’s health by checking her gums. If they appear lighter than usual, it might be a sign that the growing puppies are utilizing her iron supply. While this is usually manageable, it’s wise to consult your vet for peace of mind.

Confirming Pregnancy

The best way to determine if your dog is pregnant is to visit the vet. Believe it or not, many veterinarians can identify pregnancy without needing costly ultrasounds. They know how to feel your dog’s abdomen to see if she’s harboring puppies.

Caring for Your Pregnant Dog

Once you confirm your dog is pregnant, relatively few changes are necessary. Your vet may suggest:

Ensuring your dog is on a nutritious diet. If her food isn’t up to par, consider making improvements. However, don’t increase her food intake until she is further along.
Taking her on shorter but more frequent walks, particularly as her pregnancy progresses.
Keeping her isolated at home, especially towards the end of her pregnancy, to reduce the risk of exposure to harmful infections or parasites that could affect her puppies.

It’s also a good idea to ask your vet about deworming medications, as administering them towards the end of pregnancy can help protect the pups from parasites.

Signs Your Dog Is Going into Labor

Like human mothers, dogs display specific signs before giving birth. Nesting behaviors may appear up to 48 hours prior, such as scratching at her bedding. Additionally, her rectal temperature may drop below 100 degrees. As labor approaches, she may pace, pant, and shake, and vomiting can also occur.

What to Have Prepared for the Big Day

When your dog goes into labor, having a few essential items on hand can help ensure a safe delivery:

A thermometer
Absorbent disposable pads
Gloves
Surgical scissors
Plenty of towels
Antiseptic

If you have more questions, consider speaking with your vet or a dog breeder for detailed guidance on what to expect.

Dog Pregnancy Calculator

Wondering when your dog might have had her romantic escapade? You can estimate her due date by counting 63 days from the date she was bred. Alternatively, you can use a dog pregnancy calculator, like the one available at Emergency Vet USA, for accuracy.

Congratulations on the potential arrival of new puppies!

For additional insights into dog pregnancy, check out this informative article on home insemination here. If you’re looking for a reliable resource on the topic, visit Make A Mom for more information. For a comprehensive overview of home insemination, this Healthline resource is an excellent choice.

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Summary

This article discusses the signs of dog pregnancy, including physical symptoms and behavioral changes, and provides guidance on caring for a pregnant dog. It also outlines what to expect during labor and essential preparations for delivery.