Pregnancy Term for Dogs

A female dog, or bitch, can become pregnant during a period of time called estrus, colloquially referred to as "being in heat." This happens approximately once every six to seven months, depending on the size and type of dog. The heat period can last anywhere from 21 to 28 days.

  1. Length of Time

    • The average length of time for a dog's pregnancy is 63 days, or about nine weeks, from the date of ovulation.

    Due Date

    • A dog will give birth anywhere between 56 and 70 days of the pregnancy. Larger litters usually take less time to reach parturition, or the time of birth, while smaller litters take longer.

    Confirming Pregnancy

    • An ultrasound can confirm fetal heartbeats at 28 days. Around this time, a vet can feel for fetuses too. A blood test can confirm pregnancy after 28 to 30 days.

    Number of Puppies

    • At 60 days into the pregnancy, an X-ray will tell how many puppies are present and the size of the unborn dogs.

    Average Litter

    • The average litter size is six to 10 puppies. Smaller dogs generally have smaller litters.