The Stages of Pregnancy in a Bulldog

A pregnancy in a bulldog lasts about nine weeks, generally 61 to 65 days. If you suspect that your bulldog is pregnant, stop using flea treatments and other insecticides. Use a mild wormer designed for pregnant bulldogs so that she doesn't pass any worms on to the pups, the Dog Breed Info website.

  1. First Stage of Pregnancy

    • Don't overfeed your bulldog in the first few weeks of pregnancy.

      Upon fertilization, some bulldogs may emit a pink discharge, something like a light menstrual period. During the first two weeks, the fertilized cells divide and thereafter the embryo implants in the uterus.

      There are few outward signs of pregnancy in the first five weeks, according to The Bulldog Information Library website. You shouldn't make any changes in your bulldog's diet or routine in early pregnancy, as this can create stress for the dog.

    Third and Fourth Week

    • You can get an ultrasound to confirm pregnancy in your bulldog.

      A vet may detect pregnancy by palpitation during the third and fourth week of pregnancy. After the fourth week, fluids build in the uterus and feeling for pups isn't possible. The spinal cords of the fetuses are growing at this stage of pregnancy and exposure to any toxic substance can cause a birth defect.

    Fifth and Sixth Week

    • The pups are much hardier at this stage and develop sexual organs, claws and even whiskers, reports Dog Breed Info. The pregnant bulldog's nipples begin to swell and darken and you will notice weight gain. Begin feeding the pregnant bulldog more food, gradually increasing it until you're feeding her one and a half times the previous amount. The pregnancy becomes obvious by the sixth week.

    Seventh and Eighth Week

    • Added calcium can be harmful to pregnant dogs.

      Your pregnant bulldog may begin shedding belly hair during the seventh week. By the eighth week, it may be more comfortable for the dog to eat three smaller meals a day rather than two large ones. Limit calcium intake during the eighth week so that your dog begins to store calcium for milk production.

    Ninth Week

    • Pups are born after nine weeks of pregnancy.

      Introduce your pregnant bulldog to a whelping box in a secluded, warm and dry area. Your bulldog may lose her appetite during this final stage of pregnancy or may eat very small amounts every three to four hours. She will urinate more frequently and may look nervous and uncomfortable. Pregnant bulldogs my pant, vomit or tear up paper as if preparing a nest.

      Take your dog's temperature rectally three to five times a day. Twelve to 14 hours before whelping, her rectal temperature will drop from about 101.5 degrees F to 99 degrees.