Belly Labs Dog Pregnancy Test? The 87 Top Answers

Welcoming a new litter of puppies into the world is very rewarding, but canine pregnancies can be confusing and stressful, as well as time-consuming and costly.

If you are considering breeding your dog, there is so much information that you need to know. You should be familiar with your breed’s standard and individual breed health testing recommendations, as well as the responsibilities you have in raising healthy, well-socialized puppies. You also need to know the signs of pregnancy in dogs and how best to care for your pregnant pooch. Here are the answers to some of your questions.

How Long Are Dogs Pregnant?

Bitches are pregnant at about 62-64 days, or about two months, although the Merck Veterinary Manual says: “Predicting the timing of parturition can be difficult because the mating date does not always coincide with the conception date. Gestation length can also vary by breed and litter size.”

dr Jerry Klein, AKC Chief Veterinary Officer, explains that during the first month of pregnancy, the fertilized eggs travel to the uterine horn, where they become embedded in the uterine lining after about 15 to 18 days. Fetal growth is rapid during early pregnancy, and these swellings double in diameter every 7 days, according to Merck.

By the end of the first month, a veterinarian can detect a fetal heartbeat, and development accelerates through the second month when the embryos develop into recognizable pups. At the end of the second and beginning of the third month, the puppies are ready to be born.

How to tell if your dog is pregnant

Dogs don’t have the ability to pick up a pregnancy test kit from the pharmacy, which means we have to rely on other methods to determine if a bitch is pregnant. The most accurate way to tell if a bitch is pregnant is through diagnostic testing.

Palpation If you know the date your dog was mated, your vet can perform an abdominal palpation from around day 28-30. At this stage of pregnancy, the pups will feel like little golf balls or bunches of grapes, depending on the size of the dog. These “balls” are fluid-filled sacs that surround the fetus. Palpation of the abdomen should not be attempted without the help of a veterinarian as this could harm the puppies. The sacks lose their distinct shape after a month, so the timing of this test is important.

If you know the date your dog was bred, your vet can perform an abdominal palpation from around the 28-30 day mark. At this stage of pregnancy, the pups will feel like little golf balls or bunches of grapes, depending on the size of the dog. These “balls” are fluid-filled sacs that surround the fetus. Palpation of the abdomen should not be attempted without the help of a veterinarian as this could harm the puppies. The sacks lose their distinct shape after a month, so the timing of this test is important. Ultrasound Alternatively, your vet can do an ultrasound between the 25th and 35th day of pregnancy. An ultrasound can usually detect the fetus’s heartbeats and give you an estimate of the number of puppies the bitch is carrying. Puppies’ heartbeats are 2 to 3 times faster than their mother’s.

Alternatively, your vet may do an ultrasound between days 25 and 35 of gestation. An ultrasound can usually detect the fetus’s heartbeats and give you an estimate of the number of puppies the bitch is carrying. Puppies’ heartbeats are 2 to 3 times faster than their mother’s. Hormone testing Around day 25 to 30 of pregnancy, your vet may do a blood test to measure the bitch’s hormone levels and determine if she is producing the hormone relaxin. Relaxin is only produced during pregnancy, making the test relatively accurate.

After about 25 to 30 days of gestation, your vet may do a blood test to measure the bitch’s hormone levels to see if she is producing the hormone relaxin. Relaxin is only produced during pregnancy, making the test relatively accurate. X-ray X-rays are one of the most effective ways to determine if a bitch is pregnant. However, this is best done after 55 days or more, as the puppies’ skeletal systems will not be visible on an X-ray by then. An x-ray at this point will allow you to accurately count the number of puppies, which will let you know when your dog is done giving birth.

Dog Pregnancy Signs

Diagnostic testing is not the only way to tell if a bitch is pregnant, although it is the most accurate. There are signs of dog pregnancy to look out for, including:

increase in appetite

weight gain

Increase in nipple size

swollen belly

tires lighter

nesting behavior

Softer

irritability

Additionally, some dogs may vomit and have a decreased appetite for a few days in the first few weeks due to hormonal changes. “Some dogs exhibit these sighs but may actually be experiencing a false pregnancy,” says Dr. Small. “There are also other conditions that can cause changes in appetite, weight gain and a swollen abdomen. To rule out a more serious condition, take your dog to the vet for a check-up.”

Caring for a pregnant bitch

Once you’ve determined that your dog is pregnant, there are a few steps you should take to ensure she stays healthy throughout her pregnancy.

Right nutrition

One of the most important things you can do for your pregnant dog is to make sure she is getting the right nutrition. If your female dog is already on good quality dog ​​food and is at a healthy weight, you will not need to make any changes to her diet during the first two thirds of her pregnancy unless directed otherwise by your veterinarian. In fact, increasing the amount of food at this stage can be harmful.

As her weight increases in the final weeks of her pregnancy, vets recommend gradually increasing her food intake until she’s eating 35 to 50 percent more than usual. Increase their intake slowly and feed them small, frequent meals, as large meals can cause discomfort.

exercise

When attempting to breed your dog, some veterinarians believe that limiting strenuous exercise during the first two weeks of gestation encourages embryo implantation. After that, normal movement is fine until your dog’s abdomen is enlarged. “During their last trimester, the best exercise for your dog should not be overly strenuous. Shorter and possibly more frequent walks will be more beneficial for the mother as she needs her energy to carry the pups and feed them,” suggests Dr. Small before.

Pregnant french bulldog standing in the garden.

Visits to the vet

Before you breed your dog, take him to the vet for a prenatal exam. She should be up to date on vaccinations. Your vet will likely either recommend a fecal exam to check for intestinal parasites, or simply have your dog dewormed with an appropriate medication prior to mating.

It is now believed that if the pregnant mother is continued deworming with an appropriate dewormer (fenbendazole) from her third trimester (about day 40 of gestation) and under about 14 days postpartum, the number of roundworms and hookworms in the newborn will be significant decreases puppies to allow them to grow and thrive.

You should also ask your vet what to do in the event of an emergency just before the expected birth and make a plan with your family and pet sitter.

Regular vet visits can help your dog stay healthy throughout her pregnancy.

If the vet confirms your dog’s pregnancy, they will also examine the dog for any mechanical or anatomical problems your dog may have that could prevent him from having a normal litter.

This is a good time to discuss planning whether a normal birth or a cesarean may need to be considered and planned ahead of time. If your vet discovers during the exam that your dog is already pregnant and the pregnancy is an accident, this is also a good time to discuss future precautions such as feeding. B. castration to avoid further surprise rolls.

Preparing for puppies

As your dog nears the end of her pregnancy, you will notice a marked increase in the size of her breasts and nipples, and you may even notice some milky fluid as the mammary glands develop and enlarge. Your belly gets bigger and may sway a little when you walk. At the end of the pregnancy you may even be able to see or feel the puppies moving inside the mother.

At this point you want to prepare yourself and your dog for birth or puppy birth. The best way to do this is by setting up a whelping box. Whelping boxes offer your dog a safe, warm, draught-free and easy-to-clean place for her puppies. There are whelping boxes that can be purchased or you can even use a small plastic children’s pool. The whelping box should be easy for the mother, but not the puppies, to get in and out of. Your dog may prefer to have it in a quiet area of ​​the house but in an area that is easy for you to reach.

After you’ve bought or built your whelping box, take some time to get your dog used to it. If you don’t introduce her to the whelping box beforehand, she may choose to give birth somewhere else – like your closet.

If this is your first time breeding your dog, talk to your vet about your role during labor and read and learn what you need to know. Unless you plan to have an experienced breeder on hand, you must be prepared to intervene during the birthing process if necessary. It’s always a good idea to have another person with you to help keep the puppies warm or to lend a hand if you need help.

Litter Care Checklist:

Plenty of newspaper to line the whelping box during delivery for easy cleanup and bin bags

Non-slip bath mats for sprinkling after the throw

Dry clean towels to clean the puppies

Paper towels help with cleanup

Thermometer to check your dog’s temperature before the litter

Clean, sterilized scissors for cutting umbilical cords

Unwaxed dental floss for tying off the umbilical cord

Iodine to clean the puppies’ tummy after the umbilical cord is cut and dab on the end of the cut umbilical cord

Heat lamp only placed in one corner high above crate to allow puppies to crawl to a cooler spot in a crate or hot water bottle to keep puppies warm (make sure it’s not too hot).

Bulb syringe for cleaning puppies nose and mouth

A baby scale in ounces

honey or light corn syrup

The vet’s phone number and the number of a nearby emergency room

throw

As your pregnant dog’s time approaches, be aware of the warning signs of labour. Pregnant mothers may stop eating a few days before whelping and may also start building a “nest” – hopefully in the whelping box.

Many pregnant bitches who are about to give birth begin to pant heavily. A drop in rectal temperature usually goes from a normal temperature (100 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit) to 99 degrees or even below about 8 to 24 hours before delivery. Many bitches who are ready to litter may not eat or eat very little.

Abdominal contractions can begin slowly and increase in strength and frequency – sometimes they are strongest during the first birth, accompanied by straining and groaning. You can see the water sac come out when there is a pup in the birth canal and within an hour the first pup should be born.

Each pup is born encased in its placental membrane and in each case the mother vigorously licks the pup and tears off this membrane, sometimes eating it. If she doesn’t remove it, you must, as puppies cannot survive for more than a few minutes before their oxygen supply is exhausted. You may need to rub the puppy down with a clean towel until you hear them cry.

The bitch should also cut the umbilical cord when cleaning her puppies. If this is not the case, you will need to cut the umbilical cord and tie it off with some unwaxed dental floss about an inch from the abdomen. You should wipe all puppies’ bellies with iodine to prevent infection.

Some dogs give birth to their puppies back to back, others may give birth to a few puppies and then rest before giving birth to more. If there is a break of more than two hours, you should call your veterinarian. You also need to keep track of the number of placentas. A retained placenta can cause problems for the mother. In general, the total duration in hours of a normal litter is approximately equal to the number of pups in the womb. So a 6 head litter should normally take around 6 hours total.

Don’t forget to offer the mother water to drink and take her outside to relieve herself if she is about to have a big litter. She needs to urinate often. Bring extra towels and don’t leave them unattended as they can sometimes walk past a puppy while outside! During this time the puppies should be kept warm in their whelping box with a light towel over them to keep them from becoming chilled.

All puppies should be placed along the mother’s tummy, and you should make sure she lets them all nurse within a few hours. Keep an eye on the puppies to make sure they are all breathing and nursing normally.

Possible complications of dog work

Sometimes something goes wrong with the delivery. If you notice any of these signs, call your veterinarian:

Your dog’s rectal temperature went down more than 24 hours ago and labor has not started.

The mother will show symptoms of severe discomfort or if she does not deliver the first pup 2 hours after the onset of labor, particularly if she has green discharge.

Puppies are more than 2 hours apart, or your dog is in heavy labor for an hour without giving birth, or when the mother seems exhausted.

Trembling, collapsing, or trembling are warning signs of serious complications that could endanger both the bitch and the puppies.

It’s normal for dogs to shed a dark green or bloody fluid after the first puppy, but if this happens before the first puppy, call the vet.

Your bitch shows no signs of having a litter 64 days after her last mating.

All placentas are not delivered.

Puppies are not suckled.

Pregnancy can be a stressful time for both dog and owner, but it doesn’t have to be. The more you know about canine pregnancy in advance, the more prepared you will be to care for your dog. For more information on dog pregnancy, consult your veterinarian.

And remember, your responsibility has only just begun. Raising newborn puppies – making sure they are healthy, well socialized and placed in loving forever homes – is a big, important job.

Welcoming new puppies into the world can be exciting. However, you will have many new responsibilities as you take care of your pregnant dog. Here, our Ypsilanti vets share how to care for your bitch during pregnancy, including your bitch’s signs of pregnancy, the length of gestation and preparing for the birth of puppies.

Sign your dog is pregnant

When your bitch is in the first few weeks of pregnancy it may be difficult to notice anything different in her behavior and physical demeanor. But during this time, they may throw up or have a decreased appetite. On average, female dogs can be pregnant for around 62-64 days, but the exact dates will depend on your dog’s breed and other factors. Here are some signs that your dog might be pregnant:

weight gain

swollen stomach

increase in appetite

Gets tired more easily

irritability

Softer

vomiting (in the first few weeks)

loss of appetite (first few weeks)

What to do if you think your dog is pregnant?

The first thing to do if you think your dog is pregnant is to call your vet. When your dog is about 4 weeks pregnant, your vet may perform an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy. If 35 days have passed, they may also be able to do blood tests. When your dog is confirmed to be pregnant, there are a few things you need to do to keep her healthy.

Feed your dog the right nutrition

When your dog is about four weeks pregnant, you should put her on a high-calorie diet that contains the nutrients she needs for a healthy diet. There are some quality branded foods for pregnant bitches. Your veterinarian can also recommend the dog food that is best for you and your dog. Don’t feed your dog large breed puppy foods, as they often don’t contain many of the nutrients your pregnant puppy needs, such as calcium and phosphorus.

Because your dog doesn’t have as much room in his stomach, it’s usually recommended to feed him smaller meals more frequently.

Take your dog to the vet

You should take your dog to the vet to make sure he’s healthy during pregnancy and doesn’t have any diseases that he can pass on to his puppies. This includes a stool examination for intestinal parasites. Do not give your dog over-the-counter dewormers as they could harm her and the puppies.

If your dog is planning to become pregnant, make sure she is up to date on her vaccinations and parasite prevention before she becomes pregnant.

Provide them with a comfortable nesting place

Towards the end of pregnancy, provide your bitch with a comfortable, warm place to nest, away from excitement and other pets. You also need to make sure there is enough space for them to come and go as they please.

Keep them away from other dogs

For three weeks before giving birth and three weeks after, make sure your dog is isolated and away from other pets to prevent him from contracting the herpes virus. This infection is not as dangerous for adult dogs, but it can be life-threatening and fatal for puppies.

Monitor her temperature

You can tell if your dog will give birth within 24 hours by taking his temperature rectally. In this time frame, her temperature will fall below 100.

When your dog gives birth

When your dog starts giving birth, he will be in light labor for about 6-12 hours. This phase can make you restless. Your dog may start wandering or digging in and out of his nesting area, panting, and vomiting. Then they will have stronger and more frequent contractions that lead to the birth of puppies.

Your dog will exert himself for about 10 – 15 minutes before he starts giving birth to his puppies. They should have a pup every 45-60 minutes, but sometimes they will pause and wait up to 4 hours between pups. They can give birth to puppies either head first or tail first, neither is abnormal.

After your dog gives birth to each pup, they pass through fetal membranes, which are greenish-black colored masses.

Watch your dog and make sure he doesn’t exert himself for more than an hour or take breaks of more than four hours. If this is the case, you must take them to the vet immediately.

Health signs to look out for

After your bitch is born, you need to look out for the following signs:

Fever

Vaginal discharge

No milk production

Inflamed/infected breast tissue

lethargy

Vomit

Decreased appetite

If your dog isn’t feeling well, or you notice any of the signs above, call your veterinarian as soon as possible and let them know your dog is breastfeeding so they can prescribe safe medications or treatments.

caring for new puppies

When puppies are born, they are born with a protective fetal membrane that is removed by their mother. If the mother doesn’t remove this pouch, you’ll have to do it yourself so the pup can breathe. You can do this by breaking open the pouch, wiping any liquids from the nostrils, facing the puppy with its head down, opening its mouth and stroking the puppy’s body with a towel to wipe away any remaining liquids.

You may also find that the umbilical cord is not removed during childbirth or by the mother. If yes, you have to break it yourself. You must be careful not to pull the string as this could damage the puppy’s organs. You need to gently tear it off with your thumb and first two fingers about 1 inch from the puppy’s body.

Immediately after the puppies are born, you should call your veterinarian. They will tell you when to take the puppies to the vet and offer advice on the next steps you should take. They may also ask you to bring the puppies to you immediately to ensure the birth went well and the puppies do not have any medical conditions such as umbilical hernias or cleft palates. You may suggest waiting until the puppies are a little older before having their first vet appointments.

During the first few weeks of the puppies

As tempting as it is to hold and cuddle these new adorable balls of fur, it’s important not to interfere too much with the mother and her pups for the first few weeks. This can be distressing for both the mother and the babies. Newborn puppies are also very susceptible to diseases. The mother can also show aggression towards any person or animal that approaches her because they are very protective.

Puppies can only regulate their body temperature when they are about 3 – 4 weeks old. You must provide them with a warm, clean box/bed to share to keep them comfortable and warm (the range should be 97oF). They also need to make sure there is a cooler area to go to if they get too warm.

If the mother allows, you can slowly socialize the puppies with the other pets and people in your home. Starting at a young age can help them fit into the household better.

When the puppies are 3-4 weeks old you can start weaning them off their mother’s milk and introducing hard puppy food. You can also mix the hard food with water or soft puppy food to make it easier for him to eat. Leave the food in a place where they can easily access it themselves. At the age of 5 – 6 weeks they will be mainly dependent on solid puppy food from their mother.

When the puppies get older

As the puppies get older, the mother will start moving away from the puppies to take a break and socialize with the other pets and people in your home. Make sure the mother keeps coming back to check on her puppies.

If you notice runts in the litter (puppies are growing slower or don’t have as much energy), call your vet as they may have an underlying health condition.

You should not send the puppies to new homes until they are at least 10 weeks old. So they have enough time with their mother and siblings.

If you have any questions or concerns about dog pregnancy or newborn pup care, contact our Ypsilanti vets today.

Dogs milk their puppies the way humans breastfeed their babies. This means they need “mammary glands” to produce milk for their babies, and that milk has to come from somewhere. That’s the job of the nipples. If your pooch is pregnant, you may be wondering what will happen to her body. Here’s everything you need to know about nipples for pregnant dogs.

How good is milk for puppies?

All mammals breastfeed, which is why they (and we humans) have nipples and associated mammary glands. Milk plays an important role in transmitting immunity to newborns so they can fight off infections they have never come into contact with. The milk also contains all the nutrients puppies need and contains elements that help babies relax.

Do all dogs have nipples?

If you have a male dog you may be wondering if it is normal for him to have nipples. But think about it: human males have nipples too. During the first few weeks of an embryo’s development, both males and females follow the same blueprint, which includes the development of nipples and mammary glands. But they don’t serve the same purpose as the nipples of bitches or pregnant dogs.

Dogs have 10 nipples, five on each side of their body. This is because puppy litters are usually around that number or fewer, so there is always a nipple available for a puppy to suckle on.

The nipples remain small in males and neutered females. So small that if your dog is particularly hairy, you might not even notice them. This is because they haven’t had the influence of female reproductive hormones, which stimulate the mammary glands behind them to develop. Bitches that are not pregnant – and who have not been spayed – will also have smaller nipples than lactating bitches, but they will be larger than if they were spayed at a young age. In pregnant and lactating bitches, the breast tissue behind the nipple is more developed as it needs to produce milk, which in turn makes the nipples appear large.

What Happens to a Dog’s Nipples During Pregnancy?

If you’re wondering if your pooch is pregnant, one of the most obvious signs is the development of pregnant canine nipples. A bitch’s nipples are usually on the small side, although they can be more prominent than the nipples of a male or neutered female. But when a female dog becomes pregnant, her nipples will naturally enlarge and they will get higher and more noticeable. In addition, the nipples are likely to become darker than normal due to increased blood flow to the area.

You will usually notice these changes around two to four weeks after breeding and they will continue to increase until your dog is born. Don’t worry, these changes are perfectly normal – your dog’s body is preparing to produce milk. Later in pregnancy, it’s normal for a dog’s nipples to occasionally leak milk as well.

Can you tell if a bitch is pregnant by looking at her nipples?

It is not possible to diagnose pregnancy from the nipples alone. They don’t develop until a few weeks into the pregnancy, and by then other symptoms are likely to be apparent.

Even if your dog has had puppies in the past, she’s likely always had slightly enlarged nipples that sagged rather than snugly against her body. When this is the case, picking up pregnancy cues through the nipples alone becomes even more difficult.

What Other Symptoms Are There When Dogs Are Pregnant?

If you’ve noticed the symptoms of a pregnant dog’s nipples but are still not completely sure if your pooch is pregnant, here are some early signs of pregnancy in dogs to look out for.

change in appetite

You may notice that your dog is not eating as much as normal or has trouble finishing his entire meal. This is a common early sign of pregnancy and it is all due to the hormonal fluctuations in her body.

If she’s pregnant and isn’t eating as much, don’t panic – this is normal and her appetite will eventually return. But if she doesn’t eat for a few days, contact a veterinarian to see what’s going on.

In contrast, some dogs show the complete opposite and want to eat more than usual due to the increased energy demands of their bodies.

fatigue

Have you noticed that your dog sleeps a lot? An increase in fatigue or general lethargy is another sign of pregnancy in dogs. There’s a lot going on in her body, so it’s okay if she needs to rest more than usual. You may need to decrease the number or length of walks accordingly, but don’t stop exercising as gentle walks will keep you fit and healthy.

behavior changes

Dogs often become clingy and needy when pregnant and seek lots of attention and cuddles with their family. If that’s what she wants, give it to her – it will help her stay calm and happy before her puppies arrive. She could also be motherly towards her teddies and toys and show affection towards them as well.

On the other hand, some dogs can be withdrawn and distant during pregnancy. This is totally normal too – it’s all because of the crazy hormonal changes going on in her body. But don’t worry, your dog will be back to his normal self before you know it.

Later signs of pregnancy

As your bitch’s pregnancy progresses you will find that she has gained weight and her belly has gotten bigger – these will be the little puppies that will grow. If you touch her tummy you might even feel movement from these little ones, but that will only be in the later stages of her pregnancy.

You will know that labor is imminent when your pup begins to exhibit nesting behaviors. This usually happens about a day or two before birth. She may become restless and agitated and begin collecting pillows, blankets, and papers in one area of ​​your home. Hopefully you have already prepared a throwing area for them. Birth is imminent when her temperature drops to 37 degrees Celsius or less.

Finally, pregnant dogs’ nipples can leak as the birth approaches. If you notice a few drops on the floor or a leak, don’t worry.

How can I help my dog ​​breastfeed?

Some time has passed – the puppies are here and your dog has a lot on his plate. Having puppies can be stressful for your pooch, and grooming them can come with some hassles. While your pup can naturally take care of their puppies on their own, there are a few things you can do to make it easier for them.

Make a sanctuary

The whelping box you created should be like a sanctuary for your bitch while she nurses. Keep the area quiet and secluded, with plenty of cozy blankets and towels, and keep unfamiliar visitors out until the puppies are older. Reducing stress in this way will make lactation much easier for her.

Keep them well fed

While your dog is nursing its puppies and producing milk, it needs a lot of energy to keep it going. You should feed her much more food than normal and make sure the food is of the highest quality. It is best to speak to a veterinarian about your pregnant and lactating dog’s individual nutritional needs as these vary widely from breed to breed. In general, feeding puppy food provides her with more of the calories and calcium she needs to produce that milk.

Keep an eye on her nipples

With multiple puppies suckling on it, it’s no surprise that a pregnant dog’s nipples can become sore, sore, and painful while nursing. There are a few ways to make the process a little easier for her, e.g. B. by putting an old t-shirt on her between feedings. It may sound silly, but if her nipples aren’t available to the puppies for a few hours each day, it means she has some time to recover.

When should I see a vet?

You should regularly examine your dog’s nipples for signs of cracking, redness, bleeding, heat, hardness, or discharge. If these symptoms are present, your pooch may have developed an infection called mastitis. It is a very painful condition that needs immediate treatment. Your dog will not want to nurse his puppies if he has mastitis, which means the puppies will starve. The infection can also spread throughout the body and make her feel ill, so she needs to be treated quickly by a veterinarian.

Also, if the puppies aren’t getting enough milk, that’s a big reason to go to the vet. The puppies will quickly tell you they are hungry – they will be noisy and restless. This can mean your dog isn’t producing enough milk or has a condition where milk doesn’t come out easily. Puppies wither quickly if not fed enough, which in turn requires urgent veterinary evaluation.

Puppies begin the transition to solid food around week 4 and develop their milk teeth by week 6. At weeks 6-8, a puppy learns to accept others as part of the family. By the time the puppy is 10 weeks old, he may be a little scared of meeting new people.

Staying with his mother and littermates at this stage helps a puppy learn useful skills such as bite resistance, understanding and responding to normal canine communication, and his place in canine society.

week 12

At week 12, the pup is ready to leave the litter for its new home. When you bring home a new puppy, one of the most fun and challenging parts of the journey can be finding the perfect name for your puppy. At this point, your new pup’s personality will be fully revealed, and a guide to naming a new dog can help you make the big decision.

It’s always exciting to welcome a new litter of puppies into your home, but it’s good to be prepared and know what to expect when your pooch is pregnant. Understanding the physical changes your bitch will experience during the gestation period will help you provide the type of diet, lifestyle and veterinary support needed for a successful pregnancy. (Just so you know you have about 9 weeks from the start of her pregnancy to start shopping for new toys for new puppies!)

How Long Are Dogs Pregnant?

► Dog gestation period – approximately nine weeks

The average bitch pregnancy is 63 to 65 days, measured from ovulation. (This does not always correspond to the exact day of breeding.) As a result, a dog’s gestation period is around nine weeks.

Keep in mind that due to normal hormonal cycles, female dogs can experience pseudopregnancy. False pregnancies can look a lot like real pregnancies, which is why dog ​​pregnancy tests are so important (see below).

Three weeks into pregnancy

► Early signs of pregnancy – Loss of appetite and/or vomiting

Be on the lookout for morning sickness starting around three weeks after mating. Your dog may become nauseous as the pups nest and grow due to the hormone progesterone and the effects of ligament stretching. Some dogs vomit; others simply skip meals or peck at them. The nausea usually only lasts for a few days, then your dog’s appetite will come right back.

Four weeks into pregnancy

► Schedule a pregnancy test – Ultrasound is usually best

Most dog breeders schedule an ultrasound around day 28 of gestation. A very skilled palpator may be able to feel “puppy bumps” beforehand, but too much pressure can harm puppies. An ultrasound is a very safe pregnancy test for dogs.

An ultrasound scan will distinguish a sham pregnancy from a real pregnancy and will give you a rough idea of ​​the number of puppies to prepare for. No anesthesia is required. Your girl just lies there quietly (she may need a tummy shave) and gets some gel applied to her tummy. Most vets encourage you to be present to keep her relaxed and happy. Ultrasound is notorious for undercounting the number of puppies, but heartbeats can be seen. A good ultrasound reader can tell if the puppies appear to be alive and well.

There are a few blood tests that can also confirm you are pregnant. These look for hormones like relaxin or other proteins that are present during pregnancy. These tests would also be done at around 30 days, so most breeders simply opt for the ultrasound, which provides more information.

Five to seven weeks into pregnancy

As your bitch progresses in pregnancy, the changes will occur much more quickly. The following should be noted:

Nutrition. If you haven’t already switched your dog to a quality puppy or all life stage food, now is the time. Take a week to gradually mix increasing amounts of their new food with decreasing amounts of their old food. Your dog’s calorie needs will start to increase sharply around mid-pregnancy, and as soon as she starts nursing, they skyrocket!

Limit strenuous exercise. Most vets recommend limiting jumping and intense exercise. Long walks are an excellent way for female dogs to stay in shape during pregnancy.

nipple changes. Around day 40, your dog’s nipples will begin to enlarge and darken. Long-haired dogs shed hair around their nipples, making it easier for puppies to nurse.

belly changes. By mid-pregnancy your dog has probably gained some weight and is starting to look “round”. Over the next few weeks, her belly will get bigger and sag lower (drops). Very fit dogs and dogs with small litters tend to have less obvious profile changes. Around this time, you may be able to feel the puppies moving if you place your hand on your dog’s tummy.

Make an X-ray appointment. After the 45th day of gestation, the bones of the unborn puppies will be visible on radiographs (X-rays). Many breeders wait up to a week or two before the puppies are born to get more bone development before x-raying them. At this point, it’s possible to get a fairly accurate count of how many puppies to expect. (Vets count skulls and spines.) A count is helpful when wondering if your dog is done giving birth or if a puppy is stuck in the birth canal. If you only have one or two puppies, your vet can take an additional x-ray or two and take measurements to ensure the pup will fit through the pelvic canal. A single large puppy is often the reason for a cesarean.

parasite prevention. Discuss your dog’s deworming with your veterinarian. Some intestinal parasites, such as roundworms and hookworms, lodge in a dog but become active during pregnancy and can infect puppies in the womb or through nursing.

Eight to nine weeks into pregnancy

Your girl is getting closer! It’s time for some final preparations before the big day:

Set up whelping box. Give your bitch enough time to get used to her whelping box before she goes into labor. Put your dog’s favorite toy inside along with soft but easy-to-wash dog blankets or pads. Encourage your girl to take a nap in the box. Maybe give her some dog chew toys to work on while she rests there. You want her to be completely comfortable in the whelping box so she will willingly whelp there and not under your bed or on your new sofa.

Watch out for nesting. In the days or hours leading up to the litter, most dogs nest. You may find your dog scratching ceilings, shredding paper, or digging. She may also be pacing or panting as the first phase of labor begins.

Daily temperature checks. Get your dog used to having their temperature taken. Use a digital thermometer that gives a quick reading – and give it plenty of positive reassurance. The rectal temperature is the most accurate, but always lubricate the tip of the thermometer so it slides in easily. Start taking your dog’s temperature about a week before the due date. Dogs tend to have a pretty dramatic drop in temperature — down to 99 or 98 degrees — 12 to 24 hours before they litter. You might miss this change, but seeing it is a surefire sign that labor is about to begin.

Puppies are coming soon! Stay close to your girl to reassure and encourage her, and keep your vet’s phone number handy in case you have any questions or concerns. Congratulations!

Frequently asked questions about pregnancy in dogs

Q: How long is a dog’s gestation period?

A: On average, a bitch’s gestation period is 63 to 65 days, measured from ovulation. This does not always correspond to the exact breeding day. In general, bitches stay pregnant for about nine weeks.

Q: When are pregnant bitches shown?

A: Pregnant bitches show up at around six weeks. Your belly will round and eventually drop (hang closer to the ground). These changes are more noticeable the more puppies she carries.

Q: When do pregnant dogs start nesting?

A: Pregnant bitches start nesting a few days to a few hours before giving birth.

Q: When do pregnant bitches have milk?

A: Pregnant bitches have milk a few days before giving birth. You may notice a milky liquid coming out of her nipples.

Expert contributions from Dr. Deb M. Eldredge, DVM, and Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM.

When it comes to your pet’s health, there are no “dumb” questions. If you suspect your pet is ill, please call your vet immediately. Whenever possible, consult your GP with health questions as they can give you the best recommendations for your pet. (If you need help locating a veterinarian in your area, use this link.)

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Some women have no pregnancy symptoms by week 1, while others may experience symptoms such as fatigue, breast tenderness, and mild cramps. Typically, medical professionals measure gestational week 1 from the first day of a woman’s last menstrual period. Although a woman isn’t actually pregnant at this point, counting week 1 from her last menstrual period can help determine a woman’s expected due date. However, this article refers to gestational week 1, which begins one week after conception, meaning the literal first week of pregnancy. Missing menstruation is often the main symptom of early pregnancy.

Can you feel symptoms 1 week after conception? Share on Pinterest Yadira G. Morel/Getty Images Conception, or fertilization, occurs when the ovary releases an egg (ovulation) and a sperm fertilizes it. This can happen about 14 days into the start of the menstrual cycle, according to the March of Dimes. According to Planned Parenthood, implantation begins about 6–7 days after conception. At this point, the fertilized egg is attached to the lining of the uterus. This movement of the egg can disrupt blood vessels in the wall of the uterus, which can lead to easy bleeding and cramping. Bleeding Implantation bleeding is an early sign of pregnancy. It’s not like a menstrual period. Instead, it’s light bleeding that may include a single spot of blood or a small amount of pink discharge. The spotting can last a few hours or a few days. Cramps Women may also experience mild cramps as the embryo attaches itself to the wall of the uterus. Women can feel these cramps in the abdomen, pelvis, or lower back. The cramps can feel like a pulling, tingling, or stabbing sensation. Some women only have a few mild cramps, while others experience occasional discomfort that comes and goes over a few days.

When should a pregnancy test be done? A pregnancy test measures the amount of the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the urine. This hormone is only present when a woman is pregnant. As the egg grows into an embryo, the cells that surround it and later become the placenta produce hCG. Planned Parenthood suggests that it is best to take a pregnancy test as soon as possible after a missed period. A pregnancy test can give a positive result as early as 10 days after having sex without contraception. However, it usually takes about 3 weeks for there to be enough hCG in the urine to give a positive pregnancy test. There are many affordable and reliable pregnancy tests available over the counter (OTC) or online. A home pregnancy test can tell if you are pregnant in minutes, with most claiming to be close to 99% accurate. To ensure an accurate result, the best time to take a pregnancy test is 1 week after you have missed your period. The results of a pregnancy test are either positive or negative. If a woman takes the pregnancy test less than 1 week after her missed period, it can give a negative result even if the person is actually pregnant. If a person believes they are pregnant despite a negative test result, they should repeat the test after 1 week. To avoid a false negative result, check the pregnancy test expiration date and follow written instructions carefully. A person may also have a blood test to determine if they are pregnant. This test identifies the presence of hCG in the blood. The blood test can show a positive result a few days earlier than the urine test, but it can take up to 48 hours for the results to get back from the lab.

If you have missed your period and you have recently had unprotected sex, you may be pregnant. Pregnancy tests are most reliable from the first day of your missed period. When to do a pregnancy test Most pregnancy tests can be done from the first day of a missed period. If you don’t know when your next period is due, take the test at least 21 days after you last had unprotected sex. Some very sensitive pregnancy tests can be used before your missed period. You can do a pregnancy test with a urine sample taken at any time of the day. It doesn’t have to be in the morning.

Where to get a pregnancy test You can buy pregnancy test kits from pharmacies and some supermarkets. They can provide a quick result and you can take the test privately. The following places offer free pregnancy tests: Sexual health services

Some services for young people – call the National Sexual Health Advice Center on 0300 123 7123 for more information

Brook Centers for Under 25s – Find the Brook Center Nearest You may also be able to get a free pregnancy test from your GP.

How does a pregnancy test work? All pregnancy tests detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which begins to be produced about 6 days after conception. Most pregnancy tests come in a box containing 1 or 2 long sticks. You pee on the stick and the result appears on the stick after a few minutes. All tests are slightly different, so always check the instructions.

Pregnancy Test Results Home pregnancy tests are accurate as long as you follow the instructions correctly. A positive test result is almost certainly correct. However, a negative test result is less reliable. The result may not be reliable if you: do not follow the instructions exactly

Take the test too soon Some medicines can also affect the results. If you get a negative result and still think you are pregnant, wait a few days and try again. Talk to your GP if you get a negative result after a second test but your period hasn’t come yet.

Continuing the pregnancy If you are pregnant and want to continue the pregnancy, consult your GP or midwife to start prenatal care. You can use the pregnancy due date calculator to calculate the due date.

If you are not sure if you want to become pregnant If you are not sure if you should continue with the pregnancy, you can discuss this confidentially with a doctor. Your options are: continue with the pregnancy and keep the baby

have an abortion

Continuing the pregnancy and adopting the baby Accurate and confidential information is available – from the age of 13 – in addition to a family doctor or nurse at your family doctor’s office, also from: Sexual health services

the MSI Reproductive Choices website

the website of the UK Pregnancy Advice Service

the website of the National Unplanned Pregnancy Counseling Service. All of these services – including community contraceptive clinics – are confidential. If you are 13 or older, staff will not tell your parents. They will encourage you to talk to your parents, but they won’t force you. If you are under the age of 25 and prefer counseling specifically for young people, the sexual health charity Brook offers a range of services for young people. The Brook website contains information about pregnancy decisions. You can also use the Ask Brook 24/7 service.

A pregnancy test can tell you if you are pregnant. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about them.

What is a pregnancy test and how does it work? Pregnancy tests check your urine or blood for a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Your body makes this hormone after a fertilized egg attaches itself to the wall of your uterus. This usually happens about 6 days after fertilization. HCG levels rise rapidly, doubling every 2 to 3 days.

What types of pregnancy tests are there? Two main types of pregnancy tests are blood tests and urine tests. Blood tests You can get these at your doctor’s office, but they’re not used as often as urine tests. These tests can detect pregnancy earlier than a home pregnancy test, around 6 to 8 days after ovulation. It takes longer to get results than a home pregnancy test. The two types of blood pregnancy tests are: A qualitative hCG test simply checks for hCG. The question “Are you pregnant?” has a “yes” or “no” answer. Doctors often order these tests as early as 10 days after conception to confirm pregnancy. Some can detect hCG much earlier.

Carolina Ranch offers pregnancy testing options

Dog pregnancy doesn’t have to be such a mystery with guesswork due dates or surprising litter numbers. We have the technology to determine when your dog will be due and how many puppies to expect.

Ultrasonic

The diagnosis of pregnancy by ultrasound can be made as early as 25 days after ovulation or 30 days after mating. This is a non-invasive procedure that allows us to visualize the uterus and fetuses. It also allows assessment of heartbeat, placenta and amniotic fluid health. It is not as accurate to count fetuses with ultrasound, but it allows early detection of pregnancy.

*This is complimentary when the consultation and timing is done with Carolina Ranch.

Dog gestation lasts approximately 63 days but ranges from 57 to 72 days from a single breed. This is due to the variability of ovulation timing and semen survival in the bitch. During this period, hormonal and physical changes develop and are observed in the woman.

Pregnancy in dogs can be diagnosed in a number of ways. These include abdominal palpation, ultrasound, relaxin tests, and x-rays. Each method has its own specific time frame in which it is most accurate in determining pregnancy.

If the woman is cooperative, abdominal palpation can be done. In a nervous woman, the uterus is often not felt due to a tense abdomen. Pregnancy is most accurately determined with this method around the 28th to 30th day after ovulation. It can also be difficult to palpate and diagnose pregnancy in the cranial part of the abdomen in large dogs and in dogs with only a few puppies.

An X-ray pregnancy diagnosis is only possible 42 to 50 days after the first mating. It is usually recommended to wait until later in the pregnancy to get a puppy count with x-rays as it can be difficult to see all the puppies in early movies. For the most accurate pup numbers, x-rays should be taken around day 55 after the first breeding.

The Relaxin Pregnancy Test for dogs can be used as early as 21 to 28 days after breeding to diagnose pregnancy. Relaxin is a pregnancy-specific hormone produced primarily by the dog’s placenta. False negative results can occur, and negative results should be confirmed with other tests or by repeating the test in 7 to 10 days. An ultrasound pregnancy confirmation is already on 20.-22. Day after coverage possible but can be missed that early. Ultrasound on day 30 after breeding is an excellent diagnostic tool to confirm pregnancy. Ultrasound has the disadvantage of not being accurate at counting puppies, but it can determine heartbeats in puppies. Other problems with pregnancy include exacerbation of underlying conditions such as heart disease, diabetes mellitus, toxemia of pregnancy, and kidney disease or infection. Because of the significant physiological changes that occur in a pregnant bitch, it is extremely important that the bitch be healthy PRIOR to breeding. Any underlying medical conditions must be evaluated and treated. The implications of pregnancy with an underlying medical condition must be discussed to determine whether or not the dog should be bred. Nutrition during pregnancy is also a topic that raises many questions. A normal maintenance diet should be fed for the first two thirds (6 weeks) of pregnancy. Less than 30% of fetal growth occurs in the first 6 weeks, so nutritional needs change little at this stage of pregnancy. During the last 3 to 4 weeks of pregnancy, fetal growth increases rapidly. A gradual increase in feed should be introduced to achieve a 25% increase by litter. The food is often switched to a diet high in protein, carbohydrates and minerals (often high quality puppy food). This can vary depending on the size of the litter and the type of dog.

Calcium supplementation should not be started until after birth unless directed by a veterinarian. Pre-litter calcium supplementation may be associated with increased dystocia, eclampsia, and litter problems. Other medications should only be given on the advice of a veterinarian. Heartguard Plus (a heartworm preventative) and Frontline (flea control) should be continued. If you have concerns about long-term medication, discuss this with the vet prior to breeding.