Dog Pregnancy Symptoms

A Quick Reference Guide

Owners of unaltered dogs must be aware of dog pregnancy symptoms in case pregnancy occurs. If you haven’t had your female dog spayed, then pregnancy is a possibility. And detecting pregnancy in a dog isn’t as easy as peein’ on a stick. The length of pregnancy in dogs is about 9 weeks, much shorter than it is in humans. And many times the obvious symptoms don’t show up until about 4 or 5 weeks.

Statistics

Most female dogs come into heat about every 6 or 7 months.

The average length of pregnancy in a dog is 63 days.

The average litter size is about 6-10 puppies.

Signs & Symptoms

While not all female dogs will experience all of these symptoms, a combination is very likely if she is in fact pregnant. Many dogs don’t even physically appear to be pregnant until late in the pregnancy. If you suspect that your dog might be pregnant we recommend that you have your Vet check her out to confirm it.

Changes in Appetite
During the first few weeks she may have a loss of appetite. Farther into the pregnancy she should have an increased appetite and will require more food than normal to sustain her puppies.

Lethargy
Changes in hormone levels may lead to a decrease of energy. She’ll be resting more often than usual.

Changes in Behavior
She may be more affectionate than usual. On the flip side, she may prefer to be left alone.

Vaginal Discharge
About one month after mating occurs there may be signs of vaginal discharge. If it develops a foul smell or dark color see your Vet.

Weight Gain
About one month into pregnancy weight should be increased.

Slightly Larger and Firmer Abdomen
Mid-pregnancy you should notice that her abdomen is larger and firmer due to the growing pups.

Larger Nipples
As they prepare for lactation, the nipples will increase in size. This is probably the most obvious of the dog pregnancy symptoms.

Nesting Behavior
As she gets closer to the whelping date, she may exhibit her mothering instincts. Have a whelping box prepared with old blankets or towels.

Decreased Temperature
Normal rectal temperature ranges from 100.5 to 102.0 degrees Fahrenheit. Approx 24 hours before labor her temperature will decrease to 97-99 degrees Fahrenheit.

False Pregnancy

False pregnancies can occur after her heat cycle regardless of whether or not the female dog has mated. The dog experiences physical and psychological changes that mimic pregnancy although she is not actually pregnant. Generally there are not serious or long-term effects from a false pregnancy, although some females experience this with each heat. You can avoid this by having your dog spayed.

Dog Pregnancy Symptoms to Weimaraner Puppies