Signs of Pregnancy in Mini Schnauzers

Unlike humans, dogs don't show obvious signs of pregnancy until just before the puppies are born, and the physical characteristics of mini schnauzers can further obscure some common signs of pregnancy. All dogs go through a heat cycle, during which a blood discharge comes out of their vulva, before getting pregnant. If your dog has not been in heat, she is not pregnant. Though only a veterinarian can tell you for sure if your schnauzer is pregnant, there are some telltale signs to keep in mind.

  1. Behavioral Changes

    • Many dogs undergo behavioral changes during pregnancy, and the unique behavioral traits of schnauzers often become more pronounced in the first weeks of pregnancy. Schnauzers tend to be clingy, people-oriented dogs, so separation anxiety and increased attempts at receiving attention can both be indications of pregnancy. Conversely, some schnauzers may become less friendly. Pregnancy-induced temperament changes cannot be neatly predicted. However, any sudden change in your dog's behavior may be a clue that she's pregnant or sick.

    Territoriality

    • Among the biggest clues that a mini schnauzer is pregnant is increased territoriality. This dog breed tends to be standoffish with other dogs in normal circumstances, but pregnancy increases territorial aggression. If your dog has begun guarding a particular area of the house, growling at other dogs or avoiding other dogs, she may be pregnant.

    Physical Symptoms

    • The most common symptom of pregnancy in most dog breeds is nipple swelling. Because of schnauzers' fur length and texture, however, many owners may not notice this symptom initially. Instead, a swollen vulva and decreased appetite are the most common early physical symptoms in pregnant mini schnauzers.

    Barking and Growling

    • Mini schnauzers are terriers, which makes them more reactive and more likely to bark and growl than many other breeds. This tendency is often exacerbated by pregnancy. Due to increased anxiety, pregnant schnauzers may bark or growl more frequently, particularly at other dogs.