Instructions
Watch for changes in behavior a few weeks after breeding. A dog may change her eating behavior, become more attention-seeking, sleep more or generally display a change in attitude or activity level, according to Dr. Jocelynn Jacobs of the dog nutrition website Eukanuba.
Pay attention to any changes in your dog's nipples. Dr. Jacobs says that in many dogs, the nipples will become slightly swollen and tight after around five weeks of pregnancy. This, however, does not occur in every dog.
Monitor any changes in the dog's vulva. Often the vulva will swell or appear swollen if the dog is pregnant. The Veterinary &Aquatic Services Department at Pet Education.com suggests that a clear vaginal discharge may also be present at four or five weeks, and is typically a reliable sign of pregnancy.
Watch for signs of weight gain. Small dogs typically do not gain as much weight as breeds that have large litters, so you may not see this until shortly before birth, according to Claws &Paws Veterinary Hospital in Pearland, Texas.
Take your dog to a veterinary clinic if you suspect a pregnancy. If the dog is far enough along, the veterinarian can confirm that she is pregnant, either through feeling the uterus or preforming an ultrasound or blood test. Dr. Jacobs asserts that veterinarians can also provide health and nutritional information, and let you know what to expect throughout the rest of the pregnancy.
How Can I Tell If My Small Dog Is Pregnant?
Signs of pregnancy in small dogs are essentially the same as with large- and medium-sized dogs. All dogs have a gestation period of approximately 63 days, though there can be some individual variance. Generally, the first signs of pregnancy in small dogs cannot be detected until three weeks after breeding has occurred. In most cases, veterinarians can reliably determine pregnancy around 30 days after breeding. It is important to know whether your small dog is pregnant so that proper care is provided.