Is your dog pregnant? Signs and what to do

Welcoming a new litter of puppies is a gratifying experience, but it can also be demanding, and expensive due to the challenges and uncertainties associated with dog pregnancies.

To ensure the well-being of your pregnant dog and the puppies, it is important to understand your breed’s standards, recommended health tests, and your responsibilities in raising healthy pups. Knowing the signs of dog pregnancy and how to care for your pregnant dog is crucial.

Dog Pregnancy Signs

“In the first few weeks, you may not notice any changes in your dog’s behavior. Some pregnant dogs will seem more tired, some may vomit, and some may eat less. You may notice that your dog is gaining weight and her mammary glands are becoming more prominent,” said veterinarian Lauren Jones in “Dog Pregnancy, Birth, and Postpartum Care: The Complete Guide,” an article published in the PetMD website.

While diagnostic testing is the most precise method to confirm dog pregnancy, it is not the only way. You can also observe certain signs that indicate a dog may be pregnant.

· Increase in appetite

· Weight gain

· Increase in nipple size

· Swollen belly

· Tires more easily

· Nesting behavior

· More affectionate

· Irritability

How do I know if my dog is pregnant?

According to Dr. Jones, here are a few methods of confirming pregnancy:

· A dog pregnancy ultrasound – Should be performed between days 25 and 28 of the pregnancy.

· Abdominal X-rays – On day 45.

· Blood tests for pregnancy are accessible, but they are not reliable or valid means of confirming pregnancy.

· A few veterinarians might attempt to detect pregnancy by palpating or feeling the dog’s abdomen, but this method is potentially risky for the developing fetuses.

How long are dogs pregnant?

The gestation period for dogs lasts around 62-64 days, which is roughly two months. During the first month, a vet can identify a fetal heartbeat, and the development of the embryos accelerates in the second month, leading to the formation of puppies. By the end of the second month and the beginning of the third, the puppies are prepared for birth.

Caring for a Pregnant Dog Proper Nutrition

Ensuring your pregnant female dog receives appropriate