When Do Dogs Start Showing Pregnancy? Early Signs and Tips
Dogs typically begin showing pregnancy signs within two to three weeks of conception. These include behavioral changes, mild weight gain, and a firmer midsection.
More noticeable physical and behavioral shifts appear between weeks four and six, progressing into pronounced nesting behaviors and puppy movements in the final stages.
Key Takeaways
- Early Indicators: Subtle changes in behavior and appetite appear within the first three weeks of pregnancy.
- Mid to Late Signs: Weight gain, belly enlargement, and nesting behaviors become evident from week four onward.
- Veterinary Support: Blood tests and ultrasounds confirm pregnancy and provide guidance on care and preparation.
Timeline of Pregnancy Signs
Pregnancy in dogs can be fascinating to observe, especially when you know what to look for. It’s a journey that starts with small, almost unnoticeable changes and builds into something much more obvious. (1)
Weeks 1-3: Subtle Changes
In the first three weeks, hormonal shifts often trigger changes in behavior. Some dogs might become unusually affectionate, sticking closer to their owners. Others could show signs of appetite changes, eating more or less than usual.
Physically, there’s not much to see just yet, but if you gently feel your dog’s abdomen, it might feel firmer. The body is just beginning to prepare for the developing puppies, but it’s subtle.
Weeks 4-6: Noticeable Shifts
By week four, the changes become more apparent. A slight weight gain is common as the pregnancy progresses. This is also the time when some dogs experience morning sickness, with symptoms like vomiting or a lack of appetite. These typically occur between days 21 and 25.
During this stage, the belly starts to grow, albeit modestly. For many owners, this is when they first begin to suspect pregnancy if they hadn’t already.
Weeks 6-9: Clear Signs
As the pregnancy enters its final stage, the signs are impossible to miss. The belly grows larger and rounder, and you might even feel the puppies moving.
Behaviorally, your dog could start nesting—gathering blankets, digging in cozy spots, or simply showing restlessness. These actions are part of her preparation for whelping.
Veterinary Confirmation
While signs can give a good indication, nothing beats veterinary confirmation.
Blood Tests
A blood test can confirm pregnancy as early as 21 to 28 days post-breeding. It checks for the hormone relaxin, which is only produced during pregnancy.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound provides a definitive answer and usually happens around day 25 to 30. It’s also a chance to estimate the number of puppies, though this isn’t always 100% accurate.
Gestation Period
Dogs are pregnant for an average of 63 days, though it can range between 58 and 68 days. This short gestation means the puppies develop quickly.
Weekly Development
- Weeks 1-2: Fertilization and initial cell division.
- Weeks 3-4: Embryos implant in the uterine lining.
- Weeks 5-6: Major organ development. Puppies start to grow fur and claws.
- Weeks 7-9: Rapid growth and final preparations for birth.
Preparing for Whelping
Preparation is key to making whelping smooth for both the dog and owner. (2)
Setting Up a Whelping Box
Every expecting dog needs her own space. A whelping box offers security and comfort, away from noise or distractions. Place it in a warm, quiet area of your home, where she won’t be disturbed.
Make sure it’s big enough for her to fully stretch out without crowding. Low walls are best—they’ll let her step in and out easily while keeping her puppies safely contained.
Add soft bedding, like blankets or towels. Line them for easy cleaning later. This isn’t just a place to give birth; it’s her sanctuary for the weeks ahead.
Essential Supplies
- Clean towels
- Puppy-safe heating pad
- Sterile scissors
- Bulb syringe for clearing airways
- High-calorie dog food
Diet and Exercise During Pregnancy
Nutrition and light activity play a big role in your dog’s health during pregnancy.
High-Quality Food
Pregnant dogs need more than just their usual kibble. Switching to a nutrient-rich formula (designed for puppies or pregnancy) is ideal. These foods are packed with extra calories, vitamins, and minerals to support both the mother and her growing litter.
Skip supplements unless prescribed. Too much calcium, for example, can cause complications during labor. Stick to what’s recommended by your vet.
Smaller meals more often can help if she’s feeling queasy. As her belly grows, so does her appetite—be ready for adjustments. Balanced nutrition during pregnancy is the foundation for healthy puppies.
Gentle Exercise
Exercise during pregnancy should feel easy and natural for her. Short walks (10–15 minutes) are usually enough to keep her muscles toned and her circulation going.
Avoid anything high-impact or strenuous. Jumping, rough play, or long hikes can stress her body. Instead, let her set the pace.
If she seems tired or uninterested, it’s okay to skip a day. Gentle movement isn’t just about staying active; it’s also a great way to monitor how she’s feeling. Moderation is key to keeping her comfortable.
Recognizing and Managing Challenges
Pregnancy isn’t always smooth, and there are some hurdles to watch for.
Common Issues
Pregnancy isn’t always smooth sailing, even for dogs. Morning sickness often kicks in during the early weeks. It can lead to occasional vomiting or a refusal to eat, but it usually clears up by the fourth week.
Fatigue is another challenge. Expect your dog to nap more often or show less interest in play. Some dogs even become picky eaters. Offering smaller, more frequent meals can help.
While these issues are normal, they still require attention. Keeping track of symptoms ensures you can respond quickly if something doesn’t feel right.
Red Flags
Not all symptoms are harmless. Weight loss during pregnancy isn’t typical and should raise concern. Persistent vomiting beyond a few days can indicate more serious issues.
Behavior changes, like excessive restlessness or detachment from their usual routine, might signal discomfort. Miscarriages, although rare, can occur, and infections are a possibility too.
Don’t hesitate—if you notice anything unusual, contact your vet. Early action can make all the difference. Keeping your dog and her puppies safe starts with vigilance.
Post-Pregnancy Care for the Mother
Once the puppies arrive, the mother’s care needs change.
Recovery and Feeding
After giving birth, a dog needs top-notch care. Start with food. Nursing mothers burn through calories quickly (sometimes double their usual intake). Offer high-quality puppy food—rich in protein and calories—and make sure her water bowl is always full.
Her body’s working overtime to produce milk. Without enough nutrition, she might lose weight or become lethargic. Feed her smaller meals more often to help her digest everything better.
Comfort matters too. Keep her bedding clean and soft, and ensure the puppies can nurse without interruptions. A calm environment helps her recover faster.
Monitoring
New mothers can face complications, so stay vigilant. Watch for signs of infection. A fever, swelling, or redness around the nipples could mean trouble.
Behavioral changes matter too. If she’s ignoring her puppies or seems overly anxious, it’s a red flag. A drop in appetite or extreme lethargy isn’t normal either.
Trust your instincts. If something feels off, don’t wait—call the vet. Early intervention can make a big difference, whether it’s mastitis or an infection. Keeping a close eye ensures she and the puppies stay healthy.
Additional Topics to Address
Litter Size
Litter size in dogs is one of those things that keeps you guessing. A lot depends on the breed. Small dogs, like Chihuahuas, often have litters of just one to three puppies. It’s manageable but still a handful for the mother.
Larger breeds, like Labradors or German Shepherds, tend to have bigger litters—sometimes up to 10 or even 12 puppies. Their size allows for more space in the uterus, but it also means more strain on the mother during pregnancy and whelping.
Age matters too. Younger dogs often have smaller litters, while experienced mothers might carry more puppies.
Breed-Specific Behaviors
Every breed has its quirks, especially during pregnancy. Take terriers, for example—they can be obsessive about nesting. They’ll dig, rearrange blankets, and won’t rest until everything’s “just right.”
Some breeds, like retrievers, might need more emotional reassurance. They’ll follow their owners more closely and may seem clingier than usual.
Then there are breeds like greyhounds, known for being stoic. They may not show their discomfort as clearly, making it harder to spot signs of distress. Knowing your dog’s breed-specific tendencies can help you tailor care during pregnancy.
Interactive Pregnancy Calendar
Tracking a dog’s pregnancy week by week can be a lifesaver. Start with a simple calendar. Mark key milestones, like when you expect the puppies to move (usually around week six).
Add practical reminders, like scheduling a vet check-up for the ultrasound (around day 25). Also, note dietary changes—switching to a high-calorie puppy formula is often best by week four.
This system keeps you organised. It helps spot irregularities too. If a milestone doesn’t line up, it might mean a problem, giving you a heads-up to consult the vet early.
Conclusion
Understanding when and how dogs show pregnancy can help you care for your furry friend during this special time. From subtle behavioral changes in the early weeks to clear nesting signs closer to whelping, every stage offers unique insights into her journey.
Veterinary confirmation ensures accuracy and peace of mind, while proper preparation—from setting up a whelping box to offering the right diet—can make a significant difference.
Being attentive to her needs and recognising potential challenges allows you to support both the mother and her future puppies, ensuring a healthy and happy outcome for all.
FAQ
When do dogs start showing pregnancy?
Dogs generally start showing pregnancy around the 4th or 5th week of pregnancy. Early signs, like subtle changes in appetite or behavior, may not be obvious, but by week 5, physical changes like weight gain and changes in hormone levels are often noticeable.
At this stage, you might also notice increased appetite and changes in your dog’s mood. If you’re unsure whether your dog is pregnant, a vet for advice can help clarify things, as early signs of pregnancy can sometimes be mistaken for other issues.
What are the early signs of pregnancy in dogs?
The first sign of pregnancy in dogs can be subtle. Pregnant dogs may show nesting behavior and might become more affectionate. Around 2 to 3 weeks after mating, hormonal changes might lead to changes in appetite and behavior.
By weeks 4-6 of pregnancy, your dog may start to gain weight, and you may notice her mammary glands beginning to swell. A pregnancy test could confirm dog pregnancy, but a vet for advice or a physical examination is a great way to be sure of your dog’s pregnancy status.
How long are dogs pregnant?
Dogs are pregnant for about 58 to 68 days, which is generally considered their dog gestation period. This means dogs are pregnant for roughly 9 weeks, but it varies a little based on factors like breed and individual health.
The first signs of pregnancy, such as increased appetite or physical changes, often become noticeable by the 4th week of pregnancy. If you’re wondering how long dogs are pregnant, it’s safe to say around two months—just keep an eye out for the signs of pregnancy during the process.
How do I know if my dog is pregnant?
The signs of pregnancy in dogs can be subtle at first. If you’re wondering if your dog is pregnant, start by observing changes in appetite, behavior, and physical appearance. Around the 4th week of pregnancy, your dog might start to gain weight, and her mammary glands might become more prominent.
By the 6th week of pregnancy, the belly starts to show more. If you’re unsure, a vet for advice or a physical examination can confirm whether your dog is pregnant and how far along she is in her dog’s gestation period.
What should I feed my pregnant dog?
Feeding a pregnant dog is important to ensure she gets the nutrients she needs. During the pregnancy stages, you should switch to a high-quality dog food formulated for pregnant dogs or puppies. This helps provide essential nutrients as her body adjusts to the growing litter of puppies.
Instead of large meals, offer small meals throughout the day to prevent any digestive upset. Monitor her weight to ensure she’s gaining weight gradually, and consult a vet for advice on what’s best for your pregnant dog.
How can I help my pregnant dog?
To help your pregnant dog, focus on providing proper pet care and nutrition. Offering high-quality dog food designed for pregnancy can support her health and the development of her puppies. Keep her environment calm and comfortable, and pay attention to any changes in behavior.
As your dog approaches the later stages of pregnancy, make sure she’s getting enough rest and avoid stressful situations. Nesting behavior is normal, but if you notice any signs of distress, emergency care might be necessary. Regular veterinary care is key to keeping your dog and her puppies healthy.
How can I count the number of puppies my dog is having?
Counting the number of puppies your dog is expecting isn’t always easy, but an ultrasound around weeks 4 to 6 of pregnancy can provide a rough estimate. While the number isn’t always exact, your vet might be able to give you an idea of how many puppies are in the litter.
Another way to estimate is by carefully feeling the dog’s abdomen, though this requires practice. Keep track of her gestation period and look for signs of dog pregnancy as her belly grows. This will help you get a rough idea of how many puppies your dog is carrying.
When do dogs start nesting behavior?
Nesting behavior in dogs typically starts during the last 1 to 2 weeks of pregnancy, around weeks 7-9. As your dog’s body prepares for whelping, you may notice her looking for quiet, safe places to rest. She might rearrange blankets, dig at the floor, or try to isolate herself.
This nesting behavior is a sign that your dog is getting ready to give birth. Keep an eye on her, and make sure she has a comfortable, quiet area to retreat to as her dog pregnancy signs become more obvious in the final stages.
When should I take my pregnant dog to the vet?
You should take your pregnant dog to the vet for advice early in her pregnancy and throughout her dog gestation period. A vet can confirm whether your dog is pregnant, and a physical examination can help ensure everything is going smoothly.
It’s also important to check for any complications, especially if your dog is showing signs of pregnancy, like weight gain, changes in appetite, or swelling of the mammary glands. Regular veterinary care can help monitor your dog’s health and ensure she’s ready for the birth of her puppies.
References
- https://www.southseattlevet.com/5-signs-your-dog-is-pregnant
- https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/other-veterinary-advice/whelping-a-guide-to-your-dog-giving-birth
