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Dogs have a pregnancy period of approximately 63 days, from the day they ovulate to the day their puppies are born. Similar to humans, dogs experience three trimesters, each lasting about 21 days.
In the early stages, signs of pregnancy in dogs are subtle. Your dog may appear as their usual self, with the possible exception of some weight gain. Some dogs experience morning sickness, usually during the third or fourth week due to hormonal changes. This can cause them to be tired and eat less, and some may vomit a little. If this happens, try feeding them smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
If you suspect your dog might be pregnant, schedule a prenatal checkup with your vet about 2-3 weeks after mating. The vet can answer any questions regarding the appropriate diet and what changes to expect. They can also conduct any necessary tests and treat any parasites if found.
Around the fourth week of pregnancy, an ultrasound can be used to visualize the developing puppies. This safe procedure uses sound waves to create an image of the womb. A blood test to measure hormone levels can also confirm pregnancy, as pregnant dogs have higher levels of a hormone called relaxin.
If you visit the vet during the fourth week, they can physically check for pregnancy by feeling the dog’s belly. This method should only be done by a trained professional to avoid harming the puppies. At this stage, the puppies are about the size of walnuts and evenly spaced along the uterus, which resembles a V-shape, with each half called a horn.
By the end of the second trimester, your dog's belly will start to expand. Around day 40, their nipples will become darker and larger. As the due date approaches, the dog’s breasts will enlarge, and some may produce a little milky fluid.
Your vet might ask you to return at the start of the third trimester (around day 45) for X-rays to check the puppies' bone structure and determine the litter size. As the pregnancy progresses, your dog’s belly will continue to grow and may sway as they walk.
In the final two weeks, you may see and feel the puppies moving inside the belly. A final vet visit may be needed to ensure the puppies aren’t too large to pass through the birth canal, which might necessitate a c-section.
Your vet will provide guidance on what to expect during labor (whelping) and emergency contacts. You'll also receive instructions on caring for newborn puppies.
Understanding and monitoring your dog's pregnancy is key to ensuring a healthy outcome for both the mother and her puppies. Early vet checkups, proper nutrition, and being aware of physical changes can help manage the pregnancy smoothly. Regular veterinary visits and preparation for whelping will ensure a safe and stress-free process, ultimately supporting your dog through this exciting journey.
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