Dog Pregnancy: Essential Information for Expecting Pet Owners

Dogs experience pregnancy in a unique and fascinating way. Typically lasting about 63 days, the pregnancy period involves a series of stages crucial for the development of healthy puppies. From the initial fertilization to the final days before giving birth, there are numerous physical and behavioral changes that can be observed in a pregnant dog.

Understanding the needs of a pregnant dog is important for any pet owner. Proper nutrition, regular veterinary check-ups, and a calm environment can greatly support the health and well-being of the mother and her developing puppies. Observing signs such as weight gain, increased appetite, and nesting behaviors can help in ensuring a smooth pregnancy and delivery.

Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs

During the early stages, a dog’s pregnancy can be hard to detect as there might be no noticeable changes in her behaviour. As time progresses, several signs begin to show. Early on, some dogs might seem more tired than usual. Occasionally, they may vomit or exhibit a decreased appetite.

As the weeks go by, you might notice weight gain and more pronounced mammary glands. It’s crucial to note that these changes can also occur in non-pregnant females due to hormonal shifts.

Behavioural changes

A dog ready to give birth may appear to be restless by panting, digging, or shivering. They can also be affectionate. Nesting behaviour is also seen in the final weeks, with dogs seeking a quiet, comfortable place to have their puppies. This instinct is strong and helps prepare for birth.

Physical changes

Physical changes that can be observed include body temperature dropping below 100°F, vaginal discharge becomes visible, refusing food and vomiting could occur. Other subtle signs include relaxed hips, a visible change in her belly shape, and swelling of her mammary glands.

How Long Are Dogs Pregnant?

Dogs are pregnant for about 63 days from when they ovulate. This period equals just over two months. By checking certain hormones, like progesterone and the luteinizing hormone, veterinarians can find out when a dog ovulates. Knowing this helps them give an accurate due date, usually with a three-day range.

If the exact time of ovulation isn’t known, predicting the due date can be a bit more challenging. Without this information, the average pregnancy might last anywhere from 58 to 68 days after mating. This can make it difficult to pinpoint a precise date for when the puppies will arrive.

Before breeding, it is important for a veterinarian to check the female dog’s health to ensure she is fit for pregnancy. During the pregnancy, the vet should also perform health checks. These visits are important for confirming the pregnancy and preparing for the puppies’ birth.

Stages of Dog Pregnancy

Dog pregnancy has four main stages, each with important changes. Before pregnancy, a dog must go through a heat cycle, which occurs once or twice a year and lasts anywhere from a few days to nearly three weeks.

First Trimester (0-3 weeks)

This stage is about a month long and involves the formation of embryos. Although physical changes might not be obvious, the dog could show more affection and have a bigger appetite.

Second Trimester (3-6 weeks)

At around the second month, dogs start showing clear physical signs of pregnancy. Expect to see weight gain, more prominent nipples, lower activity levels, and nest-building behaviors. The puppies are growing and resemble tiny dogs.

Third Trimester (6-9 weeks)

This phase includes labor and is short. During this time, the dog’s body temperature often falls below 100 degrees Fahrenheit. She might become restless as the birth of the puppies approaches.

Post-Pregnancy Care

After the puppies are born, providing good care for the mother is crucial. She needs a diet rich in calories to produce enough milk for her newborns. This care ensures a smooth recovery from birth for the mom and healthy growth for the puppies.

Ways to Look After a Pregnant Dog

Physical Activity

Giving your pregnant dog regular exercise is good, but it should be gentle and not too tiring. Prevent her from engaging in rough activities with other dogs. It’s important for her to be of a healthy weight before pregnancy since extra weight can lead to problems.

As her pregnancy progresses, it’s wise to keep her away from other dogs to stop the spread of any diseases. Keeping her at home or in the yard is a good idea. Mental stimulation is also crucial. Using toys like a KONG® with approved treats can help keep her mind busy.

Veterinary Checkups

During pregnancy, it’s important to have your dog’s fecal samples checked by a vet. This is because she can pass parasites to her puppies during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Avoid using over-the-counter dewormers, as some may not be safe.

A vet can suggest safe medication if needed. Make sure vaccinations, and protection against fleas, ticks, and heartworms are up-to-date before pregnancy, as these are not safe to administer while she is pregnant. Puppies are vulnerable when born, without an immune system. It’s crucial that the mother has strong immunity to pass on, ensuring the puppies’ health. Discuss her vaccination needs with your vet early on, preferably before breeding.

Nutrition

In the early stages of pregnancy, maintaining her usual diet is sufficient. As she approaches the final third of her pregnancy, her nutritional needs increase. Switching to a high-quality puppy formula helps meet her body’s rising demands. Typically, her calorie needs increase starting around day 40 of pregnancy, and they will continue to rise weekly.

Feeding smaller, more frequent meals instead of a few large ones can help with her digestion. It’s important to adjust her diet weekly to meet her growing needs. However, avoid adding supplements, vitamins, or minerals unless the vet gives the green light. Collaborate with the vet to craft a specific meal plan for her needs.

Veterinary Care During Pregnancy

Veterinary care is essential for a pregnant dog. It ensures the health of both the mother and her puppies. Key aspects include confirming the pregnancy and managing health during this critical time.

Initial Confirmation

When a dog is suspected to be pregnant, it’s important to confirm it early. A veterinarian can perform tests such as ultrasounds or blood tests.

Ultrasounds are usually done around days 25 to 30. They help see the puppies and check their development. Blood tests can detect a hormone called relaxin, which indicates pregnancy. These steps help plan the right care and nutrition for the mother.

Routine Check-ups

Regular vet visits are crucial throughout the pregnancy. The vet will monitor the dog’s weight, check the puppies’ growth, and ensure the mother remains healthy.

During these visits, the vet may suggest diet changes or supplements. It’s important to track the dog’s health and address any concerns early. Routine check-ups can catch problems before they become serious.

Vaccinations and Parasite Control

Some vaccines are important for pregnant dogs to prevent diseases. It’s best if these are administered before pregnancy, but some may still be given during pregnancy under a vet’s advice.

Parasite control is also vital. Parasites like fleas and worms can harm both the mother and her puppies. The vet can recommend safe treatments to keep the dog and her litter healthy. Always follow the vet’s guidance on this to avoid any risks.

How To Get Ready for Dog Labor and Puppy Delivery

Most dogs can give birth naturally, though some breeds like English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs may need a planned caesarean section. These breeds often have trouble with natural labor, so a veterinarian’s help is crucial.

For dogs going through natural birth, it’s important to set up a quiet and comfortable nesting area as the due date approaches. This space should be warm, away from noise and foot traffic. The mother dog needs to freely enter and leave the area, while keeping her pups safe.

Keeping a pregnant dog isolated from other dogs is vital starting three weeks before labor and for three weeks afterward. This reduces the risk of herpesvirus infection, which is harmless to adult dogs but can be fatal to newborns.

As labor nears, the dog’s body temperature will drop below 100 degrees Fahrenheit, usually within 24 hours before giving birth. Checking the temperature with a rectal thermometer a few days before her due date is recommended for accuracy.

Preparing for Whelping (Labor and Delivery)

When a dog’s due date approaches, it’s vital to have supplies ready, set up a comfortable space, and recognize when labor begins. This helps ensure a smooth delivery and reduces stress for both the dog and the owner.

Whelping Supplies

Gather all essential items for a successful whelping. Basic supplies include clean towels for drying the puppies, sterile scissors for cutting the umbilical cord, unwaxed dental floss to tie off the cord, a heating pad or hot water bottle to keep puppies warm and a bulb syringe to clear any fluid from the puppies’ noses or mouths.

These items should be organised and within reach. Having everything prepared minimises stress during delivery and ensures a quick response to the mother’s needs.

Setting Up a Whelping Area

Create a comfortable and safe whelping area for the mother. This spot should be private and quiet, away from household traffic, large enough for the mother to move freely. easy to clean, with washable bedding.

A whelping box is ideal. It provides a cozy and secure space for the mother and her puppies. The walls should be high enough to keep the puppies contained but allow the mother easy access.

Recognizing Labor Signs

Being able to recognize signs of labor helps prepare for the birth. Typical signs include restlessness or pacing, nesting behavior, such as digging at her bedding, loss of appetite, a drop in body temperature to around 98°F (36.7°C).

Contractions may start, signalling that the puppies are on their way. Stay calm and let the mother continue her natural process. Monitoring her closely ensures that any complications are noticed quickly.

Duration of Dog Labor: Phases of the Birthing Process

Initial Phase of Labor: Begin Contractions

In the beginning phase, the dog’s cervix relaxes and begins to contract, but these are often subtle and might go unnoticed. During this phase, the dog may seem restless, move in and out of a nesting area, pant, dig, and occasionally vomit. It’s common for her to refuse food. This phase might extend up to 12 hours.

Middle Phase of Labor: Intense Contractions and Delivery

The middle phase features stronger and more frequent contractions, leading to the birth of puppies. Typically, puppies are born every 30 to 60 minutes, accompanied by 10 to 15 minutes of significant straining.

It is not unusual for some puppies to be delivered tail-first. The mother may rest between puppies, sometimes for up to two hours. It’s essential to monitor for signs that need veterinary attention:

• Straining harder than usual without success for more than 30 minutes
• A break lasting over four hours
• Detection of fetal membranes or greenish discharge without a puppy in 30 minutes
• Completion of the birthing after 24 hours without all puppies delivered
• If the mother appears to be in severe distress

Final Phase of Labor: Delivery of Afterbirth

In the concluding phase, the mother passes the remaining fetal membranes, known as the placenta. These membranes typically appear greenish-black and should not smell unpleasant. Each should be expelled within 15 minutes of a puppy’s birth. As more puppies are born, the dog will repeat phases two and three.

Ways to Assist a Dog During Birth

Puppies arrive sheltered in a thin protective covering. The mother usually takes this covering off right after the puppies are born. Sometimes, she may not do this, so it’s important to step in to help. Use clean hands to gently peel away the membrane so the puppy can start breathing.

In some cases, the mother might not clip the umbilical cord. If so, it’s important not to tug or pull it as it could harm the puppy’s insides. Instead, use your fingertips to gently rip the cord about 1 to 2 inches from the puppy’s belly.

Once the sac is off, clean the fluids from the puppy’s nose and keep the head pointing down. This helps clear the airway. Open the puppy’s mouth and remove any leftover liquids.

After that, it’s crucial to encourage the puppy to breathe. Use a soft towel to rub its body gently but firmly. Avoid swinging the puppy, as this can be harmful.

Consider having medical tools like clamps and scissors ready in advance to make the process smoother. If there are any doubts or concerns, reaching out to a veterinarian is the best course of action. When unsure, it’s always better to ask a professional for help.

Puppy Litters: Number and Considerations

The number of puppies a dog can have often depends on its breed and size. Large breeds usually have bigger litters, with six to eight puppies being common. In some cases, they can have even more.

Small dog breeds tend to have fewer puppies, often ranging from one to five. If a dog is expecting just one or two puppies, it might not go into labor naturally. In such situations, a C-section might be necessary.

For singleton litters or breeds not known for natural births, discussing a planned C-section with a veterinarian is important. During the last week of the dog’s pregnancy, an X-ray can give a count of the expected puppies. This preparation helps pet owners ready themselves with needed supplies.

Possible Complications During Dog Birth

Difficulty in delivering puppies can occur for several reasons. The mother’s age, size, and breed are important factors. Issues like a narrow birth passage or problems in the womb’s shape can make birth hard. Having a big litter might lead to long and tough labor. If the uterus doesn’t contract well, it slows down birth.

Problems like a dead puppy or unusual positions can also affect delivery. Sometimes, a single puppy can be too big to fit through the birth canal. In some cases, the mother’s womb might twist, causing more challenges.

After Birth Care for Dogs

Maintain a High-Energy Diet for Your Dog

While puppies are nursing, dogs need a diet rich in calories. This could be similar to diets designed for pregnancy or early growth stages. Ensuring that she has unlimited access to food and water is crucial to supporting her energy requirements.

Design a Quiet Nesting Area for the Dog and Puppies

To promote comfort and reduce stress, place the mother dog and her puppies in a quiet, low-activity section of the home. Too much noise or disturbance can lead her to ignore her litter. Additionally, she should have a cozy spot nearby to relax but still be close to her puppies when needed.

Watch Over the Nursing Process

In the first few weeks, puppies should be fed every one to two hours, meaning the mother is often with them. If there are signs that she isn’t producing milk or allowing nursing, a vet should be contacted. Avoid giving medications or vaccines during this period unless a vet approves them.

Get Veterinary Help If Your Dog Feels Unwell

At any sign of illness, contact a veterinarian immediately, specifying that the dog is nursing. They may need to prescribe medication that is safe for lactating dogs. Warning signs requiring immediate attention include loss of appetite, vomiting, unusual tiredness, inflammation in mammary glands, blood-tinged or bad-smelling discharge from the nipples.

Certain symptoms could signal health problems that need urgent care, so professional advice is important.

Think About Spaying and Neutering

Having puppies offers no advantage to the health of female dogs, and it can be taxing on their physical well-being. Speak with a vet about the right time for spaying, which is the only effective way to prevent unwanted litters.

Spaying before the first heat can lower the risk of certain cancers. It also prevents serious health issues like uterine infections. The cost of having puppies can become very high with necessary vet visits and the potential for emergency surgeries.

Smaller breeds can be spayed as early as six months. Larger breeds might need to wait longer. Effectively planning for this surgery can contribute positively to the dog’s health in the long run.

What to Give a Dog to Eat After Birth

After a dog has puppies, her meal plan should mainly stick to a puppy formula, but she will need a lot more of it—two to three times her usual amount. During this period, some people choose a method called free choice feeding, where food is available all the time.

Producing milk for her puppies takes a lot from her body. If she doesn’t get enough food, she could develop serious health problems like eclampsia. Her puppies might also not get enough calories for proper growth.

When the puppies start eating food on their own, which is around 4 to 6 weeks, the mother’s diet should ease back to an adult formula. This gradual change will also help decrease milk production.

Caloric Intake

In the early weeks of pregnancy, she may need 10% more calories than normal. By the end of her term, this can increase to 50% more. It’s important to adjust the amount as her pregnancy progresses.

Protein and Fat

Proteins help with tissue development in puppies. Fat provides energy. Look for dog foods labeled for performance or growth. These are often higher in both protein and fat than regular adult dog food.

Meal Frequency

She may benefit from smaller, more frequent meals. This helps with digestion and ensures she’s getting enough food. Her body might not fit large meals all at once due to the growing puppies.

Vitamins and Minerals

Key nutrients include calcium and phosphorus for strong bones. Folic acid and DHA are also beneficial. These can be found in many high-quality commercial dog foods formulated for pregnant or nursing dogs.

Water

Always provide plenty of fresh water. Hydration is essential for both the mother and her developing puppies. It helps with digestion and the production of amniotic fluid.

Avoid Supplements Without Vet Advice

Some supplements can be harmful. Always consult a vet before adding anything extra to her diet to make sure it’s safe and necessary.

Concerns After a Dog Gives Birth

Ongoing Vaginal Discharge

It’s common for a female dog to have some discharge for several weeks after giving birth. This discharge is usually dark red or black due to old blood. If the discharge seems excessive, has a strong smell, or resembles pus, it’s important to contact a vet immediately. A sudden increase in discharge after it has started to slow down can also be a concern.

High Temperature

A dog’s temperature should be monitored after she gives birth because post-birth infections are possible. If the temperature rises above 102.5°F or if she shows signs of illness, consult a veterinarian right away.

Low Calcium Levels (Eclampsia)

Eclampsia can be a concern during birth or in the weeks following. This occurs when the mother’s calcium levels drop too low. It occurs more often in small breed dogs and can be worsened by calcium supplements given during pregnancy. Symptoms include restlessness, unusual behavior, face rubbing, muscle spasms, a stiff walk, and seizures.

Immediate veterinary attention is critical, as this can be life-threatening. It’s important not to give calcium supplements during pregnancy and to discuss calcium needs with a vet.

Inflamed Uterus (Metritis)

Metritis is inflammation of the uterus and may happen if part of the placenta is left behind or if there was trauma during delivery. Signs to watch for include fever, not eating, bad-smelling discharge, loss of interest in the puppies, and a lack of milk production. If these symptoms arise, a veterinarian should be contacted immediately.

Infected Mammary Glands (Mastitis)

Mastitis happens when the mammary glands become infected, leading to inflammation. The glands become swollen, red, and painful, which can make nursing uncomfortable for the mother.

Despite the infection, the mother should continue to nurse, as this helps reduce swelling and drain infected material. Nursing does not harm the puppies, even if the glands are infected, but prompt veterinary examination and treatment are necessary.

Absence of Milk Production (Agalactia)

Agalactia occurs when the mother has trouble producing milk. If the puppies are sucking but not receiving milk, veterinary care is essential. The first milk, known as colostrum, contains vital nutrients and antibodies. Puppies need these within the first 24 hours. Without them, they may not develop properly and could require extra care from a veterinarian.

Table of Possible Complications:

Complication	Causes	Signs
Miscarriage	Infections, Stress, Nutrition	Bleeding, Abdominal pain
Eclampsia	Low Calcium	Tremors, Weakness, Fever
Dystocia	Puppy Size, Position	Prolonged labor, Distress
Metritis	Retained Placenta	Fever, Poor Appetite
Stillbirth	Infections, Genetics	Non-viable Puppies

Understanding these risks allows for better preparation and care. Always consult with a veterinarian if any unusual signs appear. This helps ensure the health and safety of both the mother and her puppies.

Puppy Care in the First Weeks

Taking care of newborn puppies requires attention and gentle handling. It’s essential to ensure their environment is warm and safe. Puppies are fragile in their early weeks, so handle them with care.

Initially, puppies rely heavily on their mother for feeding. If the mother can’t nurse, a veterinarian can recommend a suitable milk replacement. Ensure the puppies are fed every few hours.

Keep the whelping area clean to reduce the risk of infections. A clean, soft bedding helps maintain a healthy living space for the puppies and their mother.

Weight Monitoring Table

Week	Expected Weight Gain per Week
1	5-10% of birth weight daily
2-3	Doubling birth weight

Puppies begin opening their eyes and ears around 2 weeks. This is an important milestone in their development. They will also start to explore their surroundings more.

Socialization is key during these early weeks, but interactions should be gentle and brief. Allow them to get used to different sounds and scents.

By the third week, puppies develop more control over their movements. They may begin to try soft foods in addition to mother’s milk.

Regular vet check-ups can help ensure puppies are healthy. A vet will often check for signs of illness and provide vaccinations as needed.