Dog pregnancy, also known as gestation, lasts approximately 63 days (9 weeks). During this time, your dog will go through significant physical and behavioral changes. Understanding what happens week by week helps ensure you provide the best care for your pregnant dog.
This guide will break down each stage of pregnancy, highlighting signs, developmental milestones, and care recommendations.
Week 1 (Days 1-7): Fertilization and Early Changes
Signs & Symptoms:
- No obvious physical changes.
- Slight behavior changes (mild lethargy or increased affection).
- Possible decrease in appetite due to hormonal shifts.
What’s Happening?
- The eggs are fertilized after mating.
- The embryos begin their journey to the uterus.
Care Tips:
- Maintain regular feeding and light exercise.
- Avoid stressful situations.
- Continue regular health checks with the vet.
Week 2 (Days 8-14): Embryo Implantation
Signs & Symptoms:
- Minimal physical changes.
- Possible increased appetite.
- Subtle mood shifts (more affectionate or withdrawn).
What’s Happening?
- The fertilized eggs attach to the uterine wall, beginning development.
Care Tips:
- Continue a well-balanced diet.
- Avoid strenuous activity.
- Keep an eye on appetite and mood changes.
Week 3 (Days 15-21): Embryo Development Begins
Signs & Symptoms:
- Possible slight weight gain.
- Some dogs experience mild morning sickness (vomiting, nausea).
- Slight nipple enlargement.
What’s Happening?
- The embryos start forming major organ systems.
- The placenta develops, supplying nutrients.
Care Tips:
- Feed smaller, more frequent meals if morning sickness occurs.
- Continue gentle exercise.
- Avoid medications unless prescribed by a vet.
Week 4 (Days 22-28): Visible Changes & Vet Confirmation
Signs & Symptoms:
- Increase in appetite and slight weight gain.
- Swollen, pinker nipples (known as “pinking up”).
- Clear vaginal discharge (a normal sign of pregnancy).
What’s Happening?
- The fetuses are developing rapidly, with their spines and facial features forming.
- A veterinarian can confirm pregnancy via ultrasound.
Care Tips:
- Schedule a vet visit for an ultrasound.
- Begin transitioning to a high-quality, nutrient-rich diet.
- Reduce intense physical activity.
Week 5 (Days 29-35): Rapid Fetal Growth
Signs & Symptoms:
- Belly slightly enlarges.
- Increased appetite.
- More noticeable behavioral changes (nesting behavior may start).
What’s Happening?
- The puppies’ limbs and organs are forming.
- Their sex can be determined via ultrasound.
Care Tips:
- Increase protein intake in meals.
- Provide a comfortable resting space.
- Avoid rough play and high-impact activities.
Week 6 (Days 36-42): Weight Gain & Nesting Instincts
Signs & Symptoms:
- Obvious weight gain.
- More prominent belly.
- More nesting behavior (seeking out quiet places).
What’s Happening?
- The puppies develop fur, and their skeletal structure strengthens.
- The mother may start producing colostrum (first milk).
Care Tips:
- Offer highly digestible, protein-rich food.
- Provide a soft, cozy whelping area.
- Avoid stressing the dog.
Week 7 (Days 43-49): Preparing for Birth
Signs & Symptoms:
- Nipples enlarge further.
- Belly visibly large and may “drop” as puppies position for birth.
- Reduced appetite due to pressure on the stomach.
What’s Happening?
- Puppies continue growing, developing their coat.
- Mother dog starts producing milk.
Care Tips:
- Keep feeding nutrient-rich meals, but expect smaller portions.
- Encourage rest and comfort.
- Introduce the whelping box.
Week 8 (Days 50-56): Final Growth Stage
Signs & Symptoms:
- Strong nesting instincts.
- Frequent urination due to pressure on the bladder.
- Possible slight temperament changes (restless, clingy, or aloof).
What’s Happening?
- Puppies are fully formed but still growing.
- Movement may be visible in the mother’s belly.
Care Tips:
- Keep the whelping box clean and quiet.
- Limit stress and unnecessary handling.
- Watch for signs of early labor.
Week 9 (Days 57-63): Labor & Birth
Signs & Symptoms of Labor:
- Restlessness and pacing.
- Drop in body temperature below 99°F (37.2°C) (sign labor is near).
- Loss of appetite.
- Contractions and panting.
What’s Happening?
- The mother will go through labor stages:
- Stage 1: Contractions begin, and the cervix dilates (lasts up to 24 hours).
- Stage 2: Puppies are born (each arrives within 30-60 minutes).
- Stage 3: The placenta is expelled after each puppy.
Care Tips:
- Provide a quiet, stress-free birthing area.
- Monitor labor closely but avoid unnecessary interference.
- If labor lasts too long without progress, contact a vet immediately.
Postpartum Care: What to Do After Birth
- Ensure Puppies Nurse: The first milk (colostrum) is crucial for immunity.
- Keep the Area Warm: Puppies cannot regulate body temperature well.
- Monitor the Mother: Watch for infections, excessive bleeding, or lethargy.
- Vet Check: Schedule a post-birth exam for the mother and puppies.
Final Thoughts
Understanding dog pregnancy week by week helps you provide the best care possible. From fertilization to whelping, each stage requires attention to your dog’s physical and emotional needs. With proper nutrition, a safe environment, and veterinary care, you can help ensure a smooth and healthy pregnancy for your furry friend.
By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to support your dog through every phase of her pregnancy!