Is Your Dog Pregnant

ByAgkidzone Staff

Updated: Dec 14, 2024

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Puppies are wonderful—they're adorable, and witnessing their birth is truly special. If your dog is expecting, you might wonder how long it'll be until the new puppies arrive. Not only do you need to know the length of a dog's gestation period, but it's also important to learn how to care for the expectant mother and her upcoming litter. By researching the stages of dog pregnancy and preparing for the birth, you'll be ready when the big day comes.

How Long Is a Dog's Pregnancy?

Dogs are pregnant for about two months or approximately 63 days. Similar to humans, dog pregnancies are divided into trimesters, each lasting around 21 days. Most dogs don't show signs of pregnancy during the first few weeks. They experience symptoms akin to humans, including morning sickness. While a veterinarian can confirm if a dog is pregnant, this typically isn't possible until the 25th day. Therefore, patience is key during those early weeks.

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How to Care for a Pregnant Dog

Since pregnancy in dogs can't be confirmed until nearly a month after fertilization, you might not realize your dog is expecting during the initial stages. That's okay because dogs don't require special care at the very beginning. However, after the first trimester, pregnant dogs may need specific supplements, increased food intake, and reduced activity levels. Consulting with a veterinarian can help you determine the right diet and exercise regimen to keep your dog healthy throughout her pregnancy.

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What to Feed a Pregnant Dog

Just like humans, dogs need to increase their calorie intake later in pregnancy. As the puppies gain weight in preparation for birth, the mother needs extra nutrition to support them. Experts also recommend that pregnant dogs get DHA—a fatty acid that promotes brain development—in their diets. Fish oil is a good source of DHA. By adjusting her diet accordingly, you can help ensure the puppies develop properly.

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Can You Feel the Puppies Kick?

Expectant human parents are often thrilled to feel their babies kick inside the womb. Similarly, puppies move inside their mother's womb, and you can sometimes feel them from the outside. In the last trimester, a pregnant dog's belly will grow noticeably larger. If you gently place your hand on her abdomen, you might be able to feel the puppies moving around. It's a magical moment that brings excitement for the upcoming arrival—you can't help but feel thrilled!

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Preparing for Birth

"Whelping" is the term used when a dog gives birth to puppies. To get the ball rolling, you should set up a whelping box—a safe and comfortable space where your dog can deliver and care for her puppies during the first few weeks. The box should be about a foot larger than her regular crate and lined with blankets and newspapers for nesting material. Ideally, it will have a rail around the walls, a few inches off the floor, to prevent the mother from accidentally smothering her pups by pressing them against the wall.

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Caring for Newborn Puppies

Usually, the mother knows exactly how to take care of her new puppies. Initially, she will clean up after them herself, but feel free to lend a hand if she can't keep up with everything. A heat lamp can help keep the puppies warm, as they can't regulate their body temperature yet. Since the mother will be nursing, her caloric intake should increase to provide sufficient milk. Keep a close eye on the puppies; if they're not gaining weight or show signs of illness, don't hesitate to contact your veterinarian—better safe than sorry.

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When to Take a Pregnant Dog to the Vet

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How to Find Homes for Puppies

While it might be tough to part with the adorable puppies, keeping all of them isn't always feasible. If you're looking to find homes for the pups, it's crucial to ensure they're going to responsible, loving families. Take the puppies to the vet for vaccinations before they meet potential owners. Ask for references from interested parties and consider charging an adoption fee. Free puppies are more likely to end up in less-than-ideal situations, so an adoption fee can help ensure commitment from new owners.

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Presidential Litters

Throughout history, there have been some famous litters of puppies. Millie, President George H.W. Bush's spaniel, gave birth to a litter of six in the White House. Similarly, President Lyndon B. Johnson was known for his beagles, Him and Her. He fathered a litter during Johnson's time in office. These presidential pups brought joy to the White House and highlighted the special bond between dogs and their owners.

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