Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee
Whether you've been planning on an adorable litter of puppies or your dog's new role as a mom is a surprise, knowing the signs and symptoms that your dog is pregnant is an important part of providing proper prenatal care to your pet and her puppies.
Recognizing and understanding these milestone moments, specific behaviors and signs will allow you to prepare and support your dog through this significant life event.
This is how to recognize the signs your dog is pregnant, confirm the happy news and care for your expecting canine companion.
Signs your dog is pregnant
1. Changes in appetite
One of the earliest signs of pregnancy in dogs is a change in appetite. Your dog may either become ravenous or, conversely, lose interest in food during the early stages of pregnancy.
2. Vomiting or morning sickness
Some pregnant dogs experience morning sickness, resulting in occasional vomiting. The placenta produces a hormone (gastrin) that increases acidity in the stomach, and the esophageal opening into the stomach relaxes. Both of these can make your dog more prone to vomiting during pregnancy. This symptom typically occurs during the first few weeks of pregnancy, similar to morning sickness in humans.1
3. Nipple enlargement
Around the third or fourth week of pregnancy, you might notice that your dog's nipples become more prominent and change color. Changes to the nipples closest to the hind legs are the most noticeable.2
4. Increased sleeping or lethargy
Growing a litter of puppies is hard work, so you may notice your dog is more tired than usual. Your dog may sleep longer or just seem more lethargic, especially during the first few weeks of pregnancy.
5. Behavioral changes
Your dog may undergo a change in personality when expecting puppies, so you may notice a variety of behavior changes, including:
- Increased affection: Your dog may seek out your company for connection and cuddles during this time. Interestingly, it has also been noted that dogs are more affectionate when their owners are pregnant, too.3
- Restlessness: With so many changes happening in her body, it's normal for your dog to feel a little uneasy during this time. You might notice that she needs to readjust her position to get comfortable, especially as her pregnancy progresses. However, keep an eye on a restless dog that can't seem to stay still, as that can be a sign that she is close to giving birth. It's common for dogs to become restless up to 20 hours before their litter arrives.4
- Nesting behavior: As your dog prepares for the arrival of her puppies, it's normal for her to gather items from around the home to make a cozy nest for her brood. This can happen at any time during the pregnancy, but it tends to increase close to her labor. Provide your dog with her own space to help her practice this natural behavior.
6. Abdominal enlargement
Just like humans, your dog's stomach will begin to grow as she progresses through the stages of pregnancy. It will become more noticeable around the fifth or sixth week. However, if your dog hasn't been pregnant before or if she's carrying a smaller litter, it might be harder to notice. Around this time, you may be able to feel the puppies moving inside if you gently place your hand on your dog's stomach.5
7. Changes in appearance
In addition to a rounded stomach, there are other changes to your dog's overall appearance during pregnancy as her body adapts to the growing puppies inside her. You may also notice changes to your dog's mammary glands and nipples, as well as her stomach feeling firm and perhaps dropping lower than normal.2
8. Increased thirst and urination
You may notice your dog drinking more water during pregnancy, which often leads to more frequent urination. This is due to hormonal changes and the increasing demand on her body.
9. Mammary gland secretion
Around the sixth week of pregnancy, your dog's mammary glands may start to produce a milky secretion. This change is helping her prepare to nurse her litter of puppies, and it's completely normal. It is possible for your dog to show signs of pregnancy—including producing milk—without actually being pregnant, in what is called a false pregnancy. That's why it's so important to visit your veterinarian to have your dog's pregnancy confirmed.
How to tell if your dog is pregnant
If your dog is showing some or all of the symptoms mentioned above and you suspect she may be pregnant, take the following steps to confirm her condition.
Home pregnancy tests
Home pregnancy tests designed for dogs can detect pregnancy hormones in your dog's urine. However, the relaxin hormone they test for is not detectable until the dog is more than halfway through the pregnancy (at 30 to 35 days). Also, in very small litters, there may not be enough relaxin to trigger a positive test.
Consult your veterinarian for recommendations on the best options and to ensure you're performing the test correctly. A more reliable way to confirm a pregnancy is through an ultrasound.
Ultrasonography or X-rays
A veterinarian can perform an ultrasound examination to confirm pregnancy, typically around the 28th day after breeding. They may also perform an X-ray, which is the best way to determine how many fetuses are present and to help you prepare for the birth. Fetal skeletons are typically visible around the 45th day of pregnancy.
Palpation
If you're clear on the dates that breeding took place, your veterinarian might be able to perform abdominal palpation starting at about the 28- to 30-day mark. Never attempt this yourself, as you could harm the puppies.6
Dog pregnancy signs week by week
Your dog's pregnancy lasts up to 68 days. Understanding the timeline and progression of pregnancy in dogs can help you provide the right care.6
Here are some key signs and developments week by week:
Weeks 1-3
During this early stage, signs may be subtle, but changes in appetite and behavior may begin to emerge.
Weeks 4-5
Nipple enlargement and potential morning sickness can become more apparent.
Weeks 6-7
Abdominal enlargement becomes noticeable, and mammary gland secretion may start.
Weeks 8-9
The pregnancy is nearly full-term, and your dog will prepare for labor and delivery.
How to care for a pregnant dog
Proper care is crucial to ensure the health and well-being of your pregnant dog and her puppies. Here are some essential tips on taking care of your new mama pup.
Veterinary checkups
Regular veterinary visits are very important during a dog's pregnancy, as is choosing the right vet for your pet. Your veterinarian can monitor your dog's health, provide nutritional guidance and offer advice on preparing for the birth. They will also be able to provide essential care for the newborns when they arrive and treat any common puppy conditions that may arise.
Proper nutrition
Maintaining a healthy diet for your dog when she's pregnant means providing high-quality, balanced meals formulated to provide all the nutrients pregnant dogs need, especially in the third trimester and during nursing. Consult your vet for specific dietary recommendations and advice, including foods dogs shouldn't eat.
Exercise
Maintain regular, moderate exercise for your pregnant dog, but avoid strenuous activities. Exercise helps her stay in shape and prepares her for the rigors of labor.
Comfortable nesting area
Create a comfortable, quiet and safe space for your dog to give birth. Provide a cozy, clean and peaceful area free from regular foot traffic or doors. Furnish the area with soft bedding for your dog and her puppies.
Pets Best is here to help
Recognizing the signs of pregnancy in your dog, seeking proper veterinary care and providing the necessary support and preparation help ensure a healthy and happy pregnancy journey for your beloved canine companion and her future puppies. Puppies have different health needs than adult dogs. While Pets Best doesn't offer coverage for breeding or pregnancy, pet insurance for the mother-to-be or her puppies after the big day can help cover literally thousands of other conditions and treatments.
With Pets Best, you'll have access to pet experts for help and advice with our 24/7 Pet Helpline that puts you in touch with qualified veterinarians, night or day.
Sources/Citations
1. “Dog pregnancy – Your questions answered," H. Godfrey (4/2022), The Vets, https://thevets.com/blog/dog-pregnancy/, accessed September 6, 2023.
2. “5 Signs Your Dog Is Pregnant," (1/2023), South Seattle Veterinary Hospital, https://www.southseattlevet.com/5-signs-your-dog-is-pregnant, accessed September 6, 2023.
3. “Dog Behavior and Human Pregnancy," K. Roper (9/2021), LoveToKnow Pets, https://www.lovetoknowpets.com/dogs/dog-behavior-and-human-pregnancy, accessed September 6, 2023.
4. “What To Expect When Your Expecting Pet Has Pregnancy Complications," (6/2023), Animal Emergency Care, https://animalemergencycare.net/what-to-expect-when-your-expecting-pet-has-pregnancy-complications, accessed September 6, 2023.
5. “Signs Your Dog Is Pregnant," L. Fields (11/2022), WebMD, https://www.webmd.com/pets/dogs/signs-dog-pregnant, accessed September 6, 2023.
6. “Dog Pregnancy: Signs, Care, and Preparing for Puppies," H. Meyers (4/2022), American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeding/dog-pregnancy-care-prep, accessed September 6, 2023