What To Do When Your Dog Is Pregnant: A Week-by-Week Guide

Discovering your beloved dog is pregnant is exciting—and maybe a little overwhelming. This guide walks you through each stage of pregnancy, from early signs to caring for newborn pups. With the right steps, you can ensure a healthy mom and litter.

Confirming the Pregnancy and Initial Vet Visit

Early detection is key to proper care. A veterinary check-up confirms pregnancy and helps you plan for a smooth journey.

Recognizing Early Signs of Pregnancy

Your dog can’t say she’s pregnant, but her body and behavior will show clues. Watch for:

• Morning sickness (occasional vomiting)
• Increased appetite as the weeks progress
• Nipple enlargement or “pinking up”
• Behavior changes like nesting or tiredness

Each dog is different. Subtle changes can indicate pregnancy even before physical signs appear.

The Importance of Veterinary Confirmation

A vet visit ensures an accurate diagnosis and rules out other health issues. They may use:

• Palpation: Feeling the abdomen (21–28 days)
• Ultrasound: Detects pregnancy from 20–22 days
• Blood test: Measures relaxin hormone after 30 days

Discussing Nutrition and Care

Your vet will create a personalized nutrition and exercise plan for mom-to-be. This ensures she and her puppies stay healthy throughout the pregnancy.

Nutrition and Exercise During Pregnancy

Proper diet and safe exercise are vital to support mom and developing pups.

Tailoring Your Dog’s Diet

• Protein: Crucial for puppy development.
• Calcium & phosphorus: Support strong bone growth.
• Puppy food: Often introduced in later pregnancy for extra nutrients.

Consult your vet on exact feeding amounts and schedules as pregnancy progresses.

Maintaining Safe Exercise

Light activity helps keep your dog fit and comfortable. Stick to gentle walks and avoid:

• Jumping or climbing stairs excessively
• Rough play with other dogs
• High-intensity running or sports

Monitoring Weight Gain

Weight gain is natural, but too much or too little can cause problems. Track progress with a body condition score chart and regular vet check-ups.

Preparing a Whelping Area

A safe, clean space gives mom comfort and security for labor and delivery.

Choosing the Location

• Quiet and private with minimal foot traffic
• Warm and free from drafts
• Easy to clean and disinfect
• Accessible for your dog and you

Setting Up the Whelping Box

The box should be spacious and secure, with:

• Soft blankets and puppy pads for comfort
• Sturdy, easy-to-clean material like plastic or sealed wood
• Low sides so mom can come and go easily

Introducing Mom to the Area

Let her explore the space early on. Add favorite toys and bedding so she associates it with safety and comfort.

Recognizing Labor and Delivery

Understanding the stages of labor prepares you to assist calmly and safely.

Stages of Labor

• Stage 1: Nesting, restlessness, panting (12–24 hours)
• Stage 2: Active labor, contractions, pushing—puppies are born.
• Stage 3: Expulsion of placenta after each puppy.

Vital Signs to Monitor

• Drop in body temperature indicates labor will begin soon.
• Contraction frequency and intensity.
• Watch for distress or signs of extreme pain.

When to Call the Vet

Postpartum Care for Mom and Puppies

After birth, focus on nursing, warmth, and monitoring recovery.

Ensuring Proper Nursing

Puppies need colostrum—the first milk—for vital antibodies. Make sure each puppy nurses within the first few hours.

Caring for Newborn Puppies

• Keep them warm with a heating pad or lamp.
• Feed every 2–3 hours if mom struggles to nurse.
• Stimulate elimination by gently rubbing their bottoms with a warm cloth.
• Weigh daily to track healthy growth.

Monitoring Mom’s Recovery

• Watch for fever, swelling, or excessive discharge.
• Ensure she eats well and stays hydrated.
• Provide a quiet, stress-free recovery area.

Conclusion

Caring for a pregnant dog is a beautiful and rewarding journey. With proper nutrition, preparation, and veterinary support, you can help mom and pups thrive.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and enjoy welcoming new life into your home. This is a time of love, care, and new beginnings.