Dog pregnancy can be exciting but also challenging to detect, especially in the early stages. Unlike humans, dogs don’t show obvious signs of pregnancy right away. Knowing the symptoms and available diagnostic methods can help you confirm if your dog is expecting and ensure she gets the best care throughout her pregnancy.
This guide will cover:
✅ Early and late-stage pregnancy symptoms.
✅ Veterinary diagnostic tests.
✅ Behavioral and physical changes to watch for.
✅ Home methods to help determine pregnancy.
1. Understanding Dog Pregnancy
Dog pregnancy, or gestation, lasts about 63 days (9 weeks) from conception. During this time, your dog’s body undergoes significant changes, but symptoms may not be noticeable until around week 3 or 4.
Key Facts About Dog Pregnancy:
- Dogs do not have menstrual cycles like humans. Instead, they go through heat cycles (estrus) every 6-8 months.
- Dogs can become pregnant during the fertile window in heat, which lasts 5-9 days.
- Some symptoms of pregnancy mimic false pregnancy (pseudopregnancy), making veterinary confirmation crucial.
Now, let’s explore the symptoms in detail.
2. Early Signs of Pregnancy (Weeks 1-3)
During the first few weeks, symptoms may be subtle. If you suspect your dog is pregnant, observe these early indicators:
✅ Mild Behavioral Changes
- More affectionate or clingy than usual.
- Tired or lethargic, sleeping more than normal.
- Some dogs may become withdrawn or irritable.
✅ Appetite Changes
- Some dogs eat less or experience mild nausea around week 3 (similar to morning sickness in humans).
- Others may show an increased appetite as hormones fluctuate.
✅ Slightly Enlarged or Pinker Nipples
- This is known as “pinking up” and is often one of the first visible signs of pregnancy.
✅ Mild Weight Gain or Slightly Swollen Belly
- Not very noticeable early on but may become apparent by week 4.
Home Tip:
If your dog has mated recently and shows these symptoms, schedule a vet visit for early confirmation.
3. Mid-Stage Pregnancy Signs (Weeks 4-6)
Around week 4, pregnancy symptoms become more pronounced.
✅ Visible Belly Enlargement
- The abdomen begins to expand as puppies grow.
- By week 5, movement may be detected in large litters.
✅ Increased Appetite
- Pregnant dogs eat more to nourish growing puppies.
- A high-protein, high-calcium diet is essential.
✅ Clear Vaginal Discharge (Normal Sign)
- A clear, odorless discharge may appear around week 4-5.
- This is a healthy pregnancy indicator as the body prepares for birth.
✅ Further Nipple Enlargement & Milk Development
- Nipples continue to grow.
- Some dogs may start producing colostrum (early milk).
✅ More Nesting Behavior
- Seeking quiet, cozy places.
- Rearranging bedding or digging.
Home Tip:
At this stage, a veterinarian can confirm pregnancy via ultrasound (best done at 28 days+).
4. Late-Stage Pregnancy Symptoms (Weeks 7-9)
As labor approaches, signs become much more obvious.
✅ Heavy Belly & Weight Gain
- By week 7-8, the belly is significantly larger.
- Movements of puppies may be visible.
✅ Enlarged, Firm Nipples with Milk Production
- Some dogs may leak milk in the final week.
✅ Frequent Urination
- Puppies press on the bladder, increasing urination.
✅ Restlessness & Nesting Instincts
- The dog may dig, pace, or spend more time in a quiet area.
✅ Drop in Body Temperature (Final Sign Before Labor)
- A temperature drop below 99°F (37.2°C) signals labor will start within 24 hours.
5. How to Diagnose Pregnancy in Dogs
If you suspect pregnancy, here are the best ways to confirm it:
🩺 1. Veterinary Ultrasound (Best at 25-35 Days)
- Can detect puppy heartbeats as early as day 25.
- Confirms pregnancy but cannot accurately count puppies.
📌 2. Hormone (Relaxin) Blood Test (Best at 28+ Days)
- Measures the relaxin hormone, which is only present in pregnancy.
- Accurate but does not determine litter size.
🦴 3. X-ray (Best After 45 Days)
- The most accurate way to count puppies.
- Shows skeletal structures after week 6.
- Ideal for determining litter size and potential birthing complications.
🤲 4. Abdominal Palpation (Vet Exam, Best at 28-35 Days)
- A veterinarian may feel the puppies by gently pressing the belly.
- Not 100% reliable, and risky if not done by an expert.
Home Tip:
If you don’t have access to a vet, watch for belly growth, nesting, and appetite changes as key indicators.
6. Can You Tell If a Dog Is Pregnant Without a Vet?
While a vet visit is the best confirmation, you can observe:
✅ Growing belly and nipples.
✅ Appetite changes.
✅ Clear discharge.
✅ Behavioral shifts.
✅ Nesting behavior.
However, false pregnancy can mimic these symptoms, so always get a professional diagnosis when possible.
7. When to See a Vet
🚨 If your dog shows these symptoms, seek immediate veterinary attention:
- Unusual bloody or foul-smelling discharge.
- Extreme vomiting or refusal to eat.
- High fever (over 103°F / 39.4°C).
- Difficulty breathing.
- Severe restlessness or distress.
Early diagnosis helps ensure a safe pregnancy and allows you to prepare for whelping.
Final Thoughts: Ensuring a Healthy Pregnancy
Knowing how to tell if your dog is pregnant early helps you provide the best care.
- Week 1-3: Watch for behavior and appetite changes.
- Week 4-6: Belly growth and nesting behavior start.
- Week 7-9: Puppies are nearly full-term, and labor approaches.
✅ Use ultrasound or blood tests for confirmation.
✅ Adjust your dog’s diet for proper fetal development.
✅ Create a safe whelping area before labor begins.
By recognizing symptoms and seeking veterinary confirmation, you can help your dog have a smooth and healthy pregnancy!