Dog Pregnancy Signs

Newborn puppies are fun, but first your dog's pregnancy needs to be discovered. There are certain signs to look for in a pregnant dog from early on in the pregnancy. The body, personality of the dog and the behavior are all subject to changes during the entire pregnancy. Some of the most common signs are in early pregnancy. By the time later signs are seen, the pregnancy has often already been confirmed by a veterinarian who knows how to palpate the stomach to feel the puppies.

  1. Nipples

    • Frequently the first change noticed in a pregnant dog is in the breast. Before pregnancy takes place, a dog goes through a cycle called Estrus. This is the period of time in which a dog can conceive. If the female becomes pregnant hormones cause the breast to enlarge. More specifically, the nipples become swollen soon after the pregnancy occurs. These growth and swelling changes will continue throughout the pregnancy in preparation of feeding the puppies when they arrive.

    Appetite

    • Many dogs lose their appetite during very early pregnancy. They may eat less or sometimes not at all. After approximately 2 weeks their hunger comes back to the point that the dog may seem to want to eat all the time. Their bodies are using the food at a much faster rate to support themselves and however many puppies that are developing. Dogs should be fed almost double the amount of their usual food before pregnancy.

    Morning Sickness

    • Like humans, pregnant dogs can suffer from morning sickness early in the pregnancy. Some dogs won't experience it at all and others will vomit intermittently. It rarely lasts longer than 2 weeks or causes problems as long as the dog does not become dehydrated from vomiting.

    Stomach

    • Besides the nipple changes, a pregnant dog will experience other changes in the stomach as the puppies grow. The stomach becomes visibly extended mid-pregnancy. As the process continues the puppy's movements can be seen under the belly. The mother gains body weight as well as the weight of the puppies and placenta. A very pregnant dog with a large litter will look like she's about to pop. Dogs with short legs may actually have trouble walking during the last week or so of pregnancy.

    Nesting

    • As the pregnancy draws to a close the dog will start seeking a place to give birth away from everything else. This is called nesting. They may start crunching rugs together with their paws or start resting in a particular corner that's out of the way. Some dogs may choose something familiar that represents security to them, like your bed. For that reason, it is best to arrange an out of the way place for her with an old blanket, familiar toys and extra food and water bowls. Doing this early in the pregnancy helps the dog become familiar enough with that spot so she will feel safe giving birth there.

    Behavioral

    • One sign of pregnancy, through the pregnancy and birth, are behavioral changes. A friendly dog may suddenly exhibit a need to stay away from people, even those she knows. On the other hand, a dog that has never been that friendly may suddenly love to be petted and be playful. While giving birth, some dogs will want to be left alone and some will need a reassuring voice or hand. It all depends on the dog. Be aware that dogs and animals in general are very protective of their young, so the new mother should be allowed to get to know her new family without anyone handling the puppies or making unnecessary visits until they are older.