Pregnancy in dogs is a special period where you can provide extra care for your cherished pet. During this time, a pregnant dog undergoes hormonal shifts, changes in weight, appetite, and behavior, similar to humans.

If you suspect your dog might be pregnant, it’s important to begin observing for signs of pregnancy in dogs. Most signs typically become apparent around the end of the first month, so it’s essential to be vigilant and ready to recognize any changes.

Your pregnant dog will require increased affection and care throughout this period. Avoid pushing the pregnant dog into demanding activities, and consult a veterinarian regarding appropriate medications and diet for pregnant dogs. While your vet is the primary resource for information on pregnant dogs, the following overview of signs, behaviors, and pregnancy care for dogs can also be beneficial.

Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs:

Being aware of the signs of pregnancy in dogs enables you to get ready to care for your pregnant dog. Unless intentionally breeding, dogs can be secretive about mating, making it possible to overlook the fact that your dog is pregnant.

Around one month into the pregnancy, your dog may start experiencing vaginal discharge and swelling of the teats. The size of the abdomen can also indicate pregnancy, varying depending on the dog’s species and size. Typically, the abdomen expands by 20 to 50 percent, though this may only become evident a few weeks before the dog is due to give birth.

If you notice signs of pregnancy in your dog, it’s important to seek veterinary advice. Your veterinarian can confirm pregnancy through methods such as ultrasound, abdominal palpation, and endocrine testing to detect specific hormones produced during pregnancy in dogs.

Behavior of Pregnant Dogs:

Pregnant dogs’ behavior will alter due to hormonal changes and their innate maternal instincts, common to all mammals.

Pregnant dogs might show reduced activity and lethargy, and they may exhibit a decreased appetite or reluctance to eat their usual food. It’s important to be cautious if the pregnant dog becomes withdrawn or loses her appetite, as these could indicate complications with the pregnancy. However, it’s normal for pregnant dogs to experience morning sickness due to hormonal changes, which can also affect their appetites. These behaviors in pregnant dogs can also resemble signs of depression, so it’s advisable to consult a veterinarian if these symptoms persist.

During pregnancy, dogs may exhibit behaviors such as scratching at the floor or hoarding food and items, which are normal nesting instincts. Their demeanor can also change, with some becoming more irritable towards noise and strangers, while others seek increased attention and affection.

Caring about for Pregnant Dogs:

Taking proper care of pregnant dogs is crucial for the health and nutrition of both the dog and her puppies. Provide the pregnant dog with high-quality adult dog food rich in protein, fats, and essential minerals. During pregnancy, her dietary requirements will increase by approximately one and a half times the normal amount, necessitating a larger supply of food specifically designed for pregnant dogs.

It’s important not to restrict food from a pregnant dog, as she requires additional nutrition to support the development of strong and healthy puppies. Consult your veterinarian for advice on suitable high-performance foods for pregnant dogs. During pregnancy, the dog may also eat more frequently but in smaller portions, which is normal, especially if she is experiencing morning sickness.

At times, pregnant dogs may require increased food intake because they may suddenly develop a strong appetite. This is particularly normal during the final weeks of pregnancy when the fetal growth of the puppies is at its peak. The need for increased food intake in pregnant dogs may also extend into the initial weeks of nursing the puppies.

Taking care of pregnant dogs involves being mindful of issues like obesity and blood sugar problems that could potentially jeopardize the health of both the mother and her unborn puppies. However, it’s important not to impose drastic or invasive dietary changes during this sensitive time. Consulting with a veterinarian can also help determine if the pregnant dog is experiencing any blood sugar issues.

It’s generally advised against adding dietary supplements when caring for pregnant dogs. Excessive amounts of calcium or other minerals and vitamins can potentially harm the health of both the pregnant dog and her puppies. It’s crucial to consult a veterinarian for guidance on appropriate food for pregnant dogs and the use of dietary supplements.

Physical activity for pregnant dogs:

Exercise for pregnant dogs should be gentle and not intense. Avoid adding stress to the pregnant dog by participating in dog shows or rigorous obedience training. Similar to human pregnancies, pregnant dogs benefit from calm and moderate exercise routines.

Regular short walks, light playtime, and affection are beneficial exercises for pregnant dogs. It’s important to avoid overstimulating the pregnant dog while ensuring she remains active and doesn’t become lethargic.

In the final three weeks of pregnancy for dogs, it’s essential to keep the pregnant dog separated from other dogs and animals. Indoor activities are preferable to outdoor walks during this period.

This precaution helps prevent the pregnant dog from contracting parasites and illnesses that could affect her health and the health of her puppies. Additionally, exercising indoors during the last three weeks helps minimize the risk of canine herpes, a serious illness that can lead to stillborn puppies.

Treatments for Pregnant Dogs:

Administering treatments like vaccinations for fleas, worms, and parasites to pregnant dogs should always be done under veterinary guidance and not attempted at home. It’s important to minimize medication use to protect the health of the unborn puppies.

External and internal parasites such as roundworms and fleas necessitate specific treatments. Consulting with a veterinarian is crucial, as you want to avoid exposing the puppies to these parasites at birth.

Certain treatments are safe for pregnant dogs, such as continuing heartworm prevention medication, which poses no risks. It’s important to administer specific roundworm and hookworm treatments to protect newborn puppies from exposure. However, not all flea treatments are safe for pregnant dogs.

Pregnancy and Birth in Dogs:

The gestation period for dogs typically lasts around 63 to 65 days. The process of giving birth for dogs is known as whelping. It’s crucial to have the pregnant dog examined by a veterinarian at least three weeks before the expected whelping date to ensure the health of both the mother and the puppies.

In the final weeks of pregnancy, dogs may become strongly attached to their owner. Some pregnant dogs may delay giving birth until they are in the presence of their owner, so it’s wise to avoid planning vacations near the end of pregnancy. The pregnant dog will also seek a quiet and safe environment to give birth to her puppies. A secluded space like a spacious closet or a lightly used bedroom is ideal for whelping.

To prepare for whelping, ensure you have a sturdy whelping box ready for the puppies. The box should be low and wide to allow the mother to care for her puppies comfortably. Line the whelping box with newspaper to absorb fluids that may be released during the birth process.

Antenatal Care for Dogs:

As your dog’s belly grows larger, she may show signs of increased fatigue, thirst, and irritability. Ensure she has a quiet place away from busy family activities where she can rest undisturbed. While most dogs prefer to stay close to their owners, they may appreciate occasional periods of solitude to nest comfortably. As previously mentioned, prepare a whelping box for the puppies well in advance, keeping it in a clean, dry location. Avoid letting other animals or children near the box, as unfamiliar scents could disturb the mother as she prepares to give birth there.

In the period just before giving birth, the pregnant dog might gather newspapers or bring pieces of family clothing to her whelping box as part of her nesting preparations. To safeguard her quiet space, maintain dim lighting and ensure that family members or visitors do not disturb the area. It’s important to avoid activities that could potentially startle or upset the pregnant dog, such as installing new carpet or moving familiar furniture. The presence of unfamiliar scents, sounds, or sights can distress a dog preparing to give birth.

During this crucial period of the pet’s pregnancy, the owner should aim to maintain a smooth and calm household environment. It’s advisable to consider postponing extended visits from visitors or having children host many sleepover guests. While most dogs adapt well, a nervous or insecure pregnant dog might seek out a quieter and less exposed area to give birth.