Pregnancy Signs & Symptoms in Boxer Dogs

Owning a pregnant boxer is an exciting event for dog owners. Boxer pregnancy signs and symptoms can be very subtle in the first few weeks of the pregnancy, but as your boxer dog gets closer to her due date, the signs will become more obvious. By paying attention to the signs and symptoms of your pregnant boxer, you can be sure your boxer is getting the care she needs during her pregnancy.

  1. Appetite

    • A pregnant boxer's appetite may decrease during the first few weeks of her pregnancy but will steadily increase as the pregnancy continues. Boxers can eat up to three times their normal portions during their 60-day pregnancy, especially from week six and forward. According to Dr. Mike Richards, DVM, from the Vet Info website, owners "should not supplement calcium. Vitamin supplementation should not be necessary when feeding a good quality commercial diet." Feed the dog two to three times per day to avoid killer bloat, also known as gastric dilatation volvulus, to which boxer dogs are prone.

    Temperament

    • Female boxer dogs can get very temperamental during their pregnancy. Mood swings and attempts at dominance over other dogs, pets and humans can occur during this time. Some pregnant boxers will become standoffish and will not play as they did before their pregnancy. Near the end of their pregnancy, many boxers will prefer to be alone and start looking for a place to nest. The All Boxer Info website states that owners should not exercise pregnant boxers during their last week of pregnancy.

    Body Changes

    • Pregnant boxers will start to show a belly bulge soon after becoming pregnant, especially if they are not overweight. As the due date gets closer, you will see the puppies moving in the abdomen, especially 24 hours before whelping as the puppies move into their birth positions. Boxers do not tend to get as large a belly during pregnancy as other dog breeds.

      The boxer's nipples will become stiff and enlarged especially as the pregnant boxer nears the end of her pregnancy. The hair around the nipples will become thin and sparse in preparation for the puppies nursing. The first milk, or colostrum, may start to leak from the nipples when birthing is near.