How To Tell If Your Dog Is Pregnant
Whether you’re trying to breed your female dog or she gets a little too up close and personal with the neighbor’s pooch, knowing how to tell if your dog is pregnant is important to ensuring she gets the care she needs. Unfortunately, there’s no simple drugstore test you can use to find out if puppies are on the way, so you’ll have to watch for some common physical and behavioral changes that will clue you in.
At Revel Vet, the trusted Queen Creek veterinarians help expectant pets have healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries. To ensure you get your beloved pet the care they need, we’ve compiled this guide of the physical and behavioral changes to watch for.
Why You Need To Know the Early Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs
If your dog had a recent unplanned romantic rendezvous at the dog park or a sneaky escape through the backyard fence, you’re probably wondering if you’ll soon have a litter of adorable puppies to care for. And when we say soon, we mean it: The dog gestation period typically lasts around 63 days. However, pregnancy can last 58 to 68 days, depending on breed and overall health.
That means you don’t have much time to get the mother-to-be veterinary care and prepare for the new arrivals. From changes in appetite and energy levels to shifts in behavior, being attuned to your dog’s health enhances her experience during this critical time, setting the stage for a smooth transition into motherhood.
Physical Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs
When it comes to knowing how to tell if your dog is pregnant, physical changes are often the most noticeable indicators. While some signs may be subtle, others are more obvious.
Changes in Appetite
Although you might expect a pregnant dog to suddenly have an increased appetite, it’s just as common for them to eat less suddenly. The early pregnancy hormones plus the physical demands of carrying a litter might make her nauseous and uninterested in food (yes, dogs get a kind of morning sickness, too), or she might be hungrier than ever.
If your dog starts vomiting occasionally, suddenly turns up her nose at breakfast, or starts gobbling down dinner like it’s her last meal, don’t panic. It’s not definitive proof of pregnancy but rather another clue to consider. In either case, it’s important to provide appropriate nutrition and consult a veterinarian if any drastic changes in eating habits present themselves.
Changes in Coat Condition
Does your dog’s fur look different than usual? Much like many woman report changes to their hair and nails when pregnant, hormonal changes can cause changes to a pregnant dog’s coat. You might notice that she has a shinier and healthier coat, or her fur might look duller or shed more than usual.
Any significant changes to your dog’s coat can indicate underlying health issues, so schedule a visit with the veterinarian if you notice a big difference.
Changes in Nipples
Even when your four-legged best friend demands belly rubs, you probably don’t give her nipples a whole lot of attention. However, changes to a dog’s nipples are one of the most common early pregnancy signs. They might become slightly larger, darker, or more pronounced; some owners notice a slight swelling or even a bit of clear discharge later in the process.
If your pooch’s nipples suddenly seem to be standing out more than usual — especially if she’s never had a litter before — it could be a sign her body is getting ready to nurture puppies.
Changes in Body Shape
Abdominal swelling is often a clear indication of pregnancy, but it won’t show up right away. In most cases, you won’t see an enlarged abdomen or “baby bump” until the dog is about four to five weeks in, or about halfway through gestation. The first signs will be subtle, but your pup’s midsection will continue growing as the pregnancy progresses.
How much weight your dog gains during pregnancy depends on the size of their litter, diet, exercise, and overall health. Some weight gain is normal, but you need to make sure she eats well and gets some exercise to ensure a healthy birth.
Changes in Energy Levels
As any woman who’s given birth can attest, pregnancy is exhausting. It’s no different for dogs. If you’re wondering how to tell if your dog is pregnant, watch her energy levels. If she suddenly seems more tired than usual, forgoing her regular games of fetch in favor of lying on the couch, schedule a visit with the veterinarian.
Fatigue in early dog pregnancy often goes unnoticed, but many dogs may appear more lethargic or tired as their bodies work to support the developing puppies. At the same time, some dogs may exhibit bursts of energy. Closely monitoring these changes will help you gauge whether your dog is adjusting well to pregnancy or further veterinary examinations are necessary.
Behavioral Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs
Alongside physical changes, behavioral changes can signify that puppies are on the way. Hormones are fluctuating and change during a dog’s pregnancy, and that can influence her behavior.
Dogs are creatures of habit. So when their personality takes a slight detour — maybe she’s more affectionate than usual, or suddenly shy and clingy — something’s going on. Some pregnant dogs become mellow or “nesty,” while others may seem more reserved or even a little moody.
The most common behavioral changes include:
- Being extra affectionate, seeking out more attention and comfort from their people
- Unusual irritability
- Becoming less social, hiding, or seeking out quiet spots
- Sleeping more than usual
- Becoming protective of her favorite toys or spaces
- Becoming less interested in rough play
Understanding your dog’s unique personality will help you respond appropriately to her needs during this time.
Nesting Behavior
It doesn’t take very long for pregnant dogs to show nesting behavior. As the pregnancy progresses, many dogs may seek quiet, secluded areas to create a comfortable space for their upcoming puppies. This instinctive behavior can include rearranging bedding or attempting to gather items like blankets or toys to create a nesting area.
When To Bring Your Dog to the Veterinarian
Spotting the physical and behavioral dog pregnancy symptoms is only part of the equation. Timely veterinary care is crucial to ensuring a healthy pregnancy and successful delivery.
Ultimately, the only surefire way to tell if your dog is pregnant is to make a trip to the vet’s office. You’ll need to wait a few weeks, though, because doctors can’t confirm a canine pregnancy until sometime between 21 and 30 days after mating.
The doctor will explain how to tell if your dog is pregnant, using tests like:
- Ultrasound: Most vets can make an ultrasound diagnosis after day 25 to confirm that the animal is expecting and, in some cases, detect heartbeats.
- Physical examination: Skilled vets can sometimes feel the developing pups between days 28 and 35 by abdominal palpation.
- Blood tests: Hormone levels can detect pregnancy, but they’re not always available or 100% accurate.
- X-rays: Most vets will X-ray the dog after 45 days to count the number of puppies.
So, if your dog had an “oops” moment a week ago, you’ll need a little patience before getting a clear answer. In the meantime, keep observing and jot down changes in her behavior or body so you can give the vet enough information to make an accurate assessment.
Once the doctor confirms the pregnancy, they’ll guide you on how to care for your dog and prepare for the upcoming birth. Their advice will cover:
- Nutritional guidance. Pregnant dogs have unique dietary needs. A veterinarian can provide feeding guidelines to ensure the mother receives the proper nutrients to support her health and the development of her puppies.
- Contact with other dogs. It’s important to keep your dog (and her babies) away from other dogs for the three weeks before birth and three weeks after to prevent the spread of the herpes virus, which can be life-threatening to newborn puppies.
- Monitoring health. Expect to bring your dog in for check-ups throughout the pregnancy to monitor her health and her puppies’ development.
- Birth plan. As the due date approaches, your veterinarian can help you prepare for a smooth delivery. This plan can include creating a safe birth environment and advice on when to seek emergency care.
Supporting Your Dog When You Suspect Pregnancy
What should you do if you suspect your dog is pregnant but haven’t confirmed it yet? Here’s how to be the calm, cool, and supportive partner she needs:
- Don’t rush into changes. Stick with her usual food and routine unless your vet advises otherwise.
- Limit stress. Keep her routine consistent and provide quiet spaces where she can rest.
- Avoid intense activity. Now’s not the time for high jumps or rough play, but gentle walks and calm playtime are great.
- Monitor behavior and physical changes. Take notes and call the vet if you have any concerns.
Be Aware of False Pregnancies
Even if you have your dog spayed, she can still experience a false pregnancy, also called pseudopregnancy. Hormonal changes can trick a dog’s body into thinking it’s pregnant even if no mating occurred.
When a false pregnancy occurs, your dog may exhibit some of the behaviors and physical signs common in pregnant dogs, including:
- Acting maternally toward other pets
- “Adopting” toys
- Producing milk or discharge from the nipples
- Swelling abdomen
Your vet can confirm whether your pup is experiencing a pseudopregnancy. If they are, the condition will likely go away on its own within a few weeks.
Talk To Your Vet As Soon As You Suspect Pregnancy
Recognizing that your dog is going to have puppies early on is crucial to ensuring everyone’s health and well-being. From physical changes like abdominal growth and weight gain to behavioral shifts such as nesting and changes in affection, the signs can often be subtle, but you know your pet better than anyone. If something feels different, it probably is.
Timely veterinary care and monitoring will provide peace of mind and support a safe and healthy pregnancy. Understanding and responding to your dog’s needs during this critical time creates a nurturing environment that prepares her for motherhood. Regular pet visits are crucial to monitoring dog health as the pregnancy progresses to ensure a safe and healthy experience for both the mother and her pups.
If you think your dog may be pregnant, make an appointment with the Revel Vet team. Our veterinary medicine experts will confirm the pregnancy and provide exceptional care for your pet and her babies after delivery. Whether she’s expecting a litter of pups or just feeling a bit off, your love and attention make all the difference.
FAQs About How To Tell If Your Dog Is Pregnant
What Does It Mean If My Dog Shows Signs of Pregnancy But Hasn’t Mated?
It’s common for dogs to have false pregnancies even if they don’t mate or undergo sterilization. The condition is due to hormonal changes, especially after a heat cycle, and will likely resolve on its own. Your dog might act pregnant, produce milk, or even “adopt” toys as puppies.
Should I Change My Dog’s Diet If I Think She’s Pregnant?
Your dog’s nutritional needs don’t change much during early pregnancy. Once the vet confirms the pregnancy and she’s a few weeks along, switching to a high-quality puppy or gestation formula food can help ensure she gets the nutrients she needs.
Can a Dog Have Morning Sickness?
Some dogs experience mild nausea in early pregnancy, just like humans. It usually only lasts a few days and may cause a drop in appetite or even a bit of vomiting. However, you’ll want to call a vet for advice if your dog shows prolonged or severe symptoms.
How Soon Can I Know If My Dog Is Pregnant?
You may start noticing physical or behavioral shifts within three weeks, but veterinarians can’t confirm a canine pregnancy with an ultrasound or palpation until 21 to 30 days in. If you aren’t sure how to tell if your dog is pregnant, talk to the vet about your concerns.
