What Are the Signs & Symptoms of Shih Tzu Pregnancy?

The Shih Tzu breed of dogs come from the palaces of ancient China. Now the toy dogs are favored as family pets. They weigh about 10 to 12 pounds and are very open and loving. Shih Tzus usually have a litter of two to five puppies, which sell for $300 to $500 on average, with show pups selling for over $1,000. Shih Tzus have a gestation period between 57 and 67 days. While a veterinarian can officially confirm a pregnancy through palpating the uterus or doing an ultrasound, there are signs and symptoms you can watch for at home for a Shih Tzu's pregnancy

  1. Early Signs and Symptoms

    • Early symptoms of Shih Tzu pregnancy resemble early symptoms of human pregnancy. Shih Tzus will have a decrease in appetite. This is nothing to worry about, because they will make up for their lack of appetite later in pregnancy. The Shih Tzu will also become more tired, sleeping more throughout the day and night. Exhaustion is common as the Shih Tzu's hormone levels increase. You will also see an enlargement of the Shih Tzu's nipples, as breast material is created. Behavioral changes also happen, with Shih Tzus becoming more withdrawn than normal.

    Mid-Term Signs and Symptoms

    • Around week three to four, you should see a Shih Tsu become more like herself behaviorally and begin to eat quite a bit more. Her energy should be back to normal by week four, and you should notice that her abdomen is becoming enlarged.

    End Term Signs and Symptoms

    • By the end of the pregnancy, a Shih Tzu will have a very large abdomen, possibly even dragging on the ground. Her abdomen will be firm and you will be able to feel the pups moving during active periods, like right after going for a walk. The Shih Tzu's nipples will have grown significantly, and may start leaking colostrum.

      Within 24 to 48 hours of delivery, the Shih Tzu's temperature should drop below 98 degrees. Also, you will see a lack of appetite, plus heavy panting or shivering, vomiting, frequent urination, abnormal barking and nestling. Nestling will include digging and tearing up things like blankets or other soft areas including beds and couches.