Canine Pregnancy

Understanding the complexities of dog pregnancy is crucial for any responsible pet owner who wants to ensure the health of both the mother and her future litter. This natural process, which typically lasts about 63 days, involves various stages that require attentive care and precise knowledge. From early hormonal shifts to eventual labor signs, each phase presents unique challenges and opportunities to support a pregnant dog’s well-being. Veterinary professionals often emphasize the importance of timely medical checkups, balanced nutrition, and a calm environment to minimize complications. Evidence suggests that monitoring weight gain, providing high-quality dog food, and offering gentle exercise can significantly improve outcomes for both the mother and puppies. By recognizing subtle indicators like appetite changes, increased nesting behavior, or mild fatigue, you can address potential concerns early. In this article, we will explore how to navigate dog pregnancy with confidence, backed by practical advice and reliable scientific insights.

Is your dog expecting? Congrats! Puppies are super cute! Canine pregnancies are usually rather easy to manage. Of course, just like any other pregnant mother, your dog will require additional attention during this wonderful time. Continue reading to learn more about caring for a pregnant dog from a local Cavan Monaghan, ON veterinarian.

Basics on Dog Pregnancy

If you’ve never cared for a pregnant pup, you’ll need to do some research. We’re giving an overview here, but you’ll want to go to your vet for specifics.

That said, here are a few key facts:

• Gestation in dogs typically lasts two months, or 62-64 days. However, this is not a strict rule. Also, keep in mind that the conception date may not coincide with the breeding date. Breed and litter size are also factors to consider. Litter sizes normally range from three to fifteen puppies. However, there have been some exceptions on both sides of the spectrum.
• Dogs produce a large number of puppies. In just seven years, a single pair of pooches can produce 370,092 puppies!
• During the first month, fertilized eggs adhere to the uterine horn’s lining. They then double in size almost every week after that. During the second month, the small beans start to resemble puppies.

Caring For Your Furry Expectant Mother

Once you’ve confirmed that your dog is pregnant, your primary attention will be on keeping her healthy and safe, as well as ensuring that the growing puppies receive the necessary nutrition. Diet is vital. If your pet is already consuming high-quality food and was at or near her target weight before getting pregnant, you may be able to keep her on the same diet until the end of her pregnancy. Ask your vet for more information.

How Much Exercise Should My Dog Get While Pregnant?

Before your pet becomes pregnant, and especially during the first few weeks, she should continue her regular activity routine. This will vary depending on your pet’s age, breed, and size. However, as that belly begins to grow significantly, you’ll want to tone things down. Short, frequent walks are a better option than extended walks with waits between.

Taking A Pregnant Dog to the Vet

Always take a dog to the vet before trying to breed her. A complete exam is required. Your dog will also need to have her vaccinations up to date. Your veterinarian will look for any problems that could interfere with the pregnancy or birth. You will also need to bring your pet with you during her pregnancy. If any problems arise, you may want to plan a C-section ahead of time.

Preparing for Puppy

As the big day approaches, you can start looking for indicators that your pet is about to give birth to her puppies. One thing to look for is an increase in the size of the nipples. You may also notice fluid on the nipples. Some puppies’ may even move around.

At this time, you’ll need a sturdy whelping box. This is a safe, comfortable place for your dog to give birth. You can buy them, or you can make your own. One possibility is to utilize a kiddie pool. Ensure that Mama can get in and out while the pups are enclosed. This should be placed in a comfortable, calm, and non-drafty area.

Here are some of the supplies you should get:

Newspaper or butcher paper

• Trash bags
• Bath mats
• Clean Towels
• Thermometer
• Bulb syringe
• Heat lamp
• Sterile scissors and unwaxed floss (for cord cutting)
• Iodine

Make sure to ask your vet for more information.

Aiding Your Dog’s Delivery

As the big day approaches, your dog’s appetite may diminish. She might also start building herself a den. (You may need to gently entice her to your whelping box). Other indicators include panting and a dip in rectal temperature.

You may notice contractions once labor begins. Puppies will be born within membranes. Typically, the mommy will remove this, but if she does not, you will have to do so yourself. Don’t postpone this: puppies will quickly run out of air. After you have liberated the dog, rub it with a clean towel.

• Typically, the mother chews through the cord while licking the puppies. Otherwise, you’ll have to clip it. Tie off the ends and sanitize with iodine.
• You’ll want to know the signs that something is wrong. Here are some of the major ones:
• More than two hours pass between arrivals and not all puppies are out.
• Your dog’s rectal temperature decreased more than 24 hours ago, but labor has not begun.
• Your dog appears to be in excruciating pain
• Any of the puppies have problems breathing.
• No puppies have arrived within two hours after contractions started, especially if there is green discharge.
• Trembling, falling, or shivering.
• If your dog provides dark green or red liquid before the first puppy.
• Puppies do not breastfeed.
• You have more puppies than placentals.

Remember to consult your Cavan Monaghan, ON veterinarian on a frequent basis when your dog is pregnant. We’re always willing to help!

Dog Pregnancy in 2025: Weight Gain & Post-Birth Care

How much weight should a pregnant dog gain?

Recommended weight gain for a pregnant dog often falls within 20 to 30 percent of her pre-pregnancy body weight, although exact figures vary with breed, litter size, and individual condition. Noticeable changes usually appear around week five or six, when fetal growth accelerates. Balanced nutrition and regular monitoring help maintain a healthy rate of gain, ensuring proper energy reserves during labor and nursing. Excessive or insufficient weight gain can lead to complications, so weekly weigh-ins and adjustments to diet may be advised. Veterinarians can provide guidelines based on each dog’s unique needs.

Should you help with the birthing process?

Overall, most dogs handle whelping without interference, though staying close by is wise. If puppies remain in their membranes longer than a few moments, removing those membranes promptly prevents suffocation. If the mother does not chew through the cord, gently cutting and tying it with unwaxed floss may be needed. Monitoring for prolonged labor, excessive pain, or abnormal discharge is advised. Guidance from a veterinary professional can reduce risks and ensure the safety of both mother and pups. Proper preparation and awareness promote a smoother birth experience while minimizing complications.

How long between puppies is normal?

Intervals between the births of puppies typically range from 15 minutes to two hours. Some mother dogs proceed more quickly, while others take more time to rest between contractions. Passing more than two hours between pups may signal complications and should be monitored closely. Watch for signs of distress or unusual discharge. Regular observation ensures each newborn is delivered safely and receives prompt care. Prolonged delays or severe discomfort could indicate a problem requiring immediate attention. Each canine mother has a unique pattern, making close supervision beneficial for a healthier whelping experience.

What is normal discharge after birth?

Normal postpartum discharge, called lochia, often appears dark green, brownish, or blood-tinged and can continue for a few weeks as the uterus contracts and eliminates residual material. The amount usually decreases over time, and a mild odor may be noticed, though a foul, strong smell can signal infection. Slightly varying consistency is common, but excess redness or sudden increases in volume should be monitored. Observing the dog’s comfort level and overall behavior supports early detection of complications. Mild discharge that gradually lessens, without signs of distress or fever, is typically considered healthy.

What should you watch for after delivery?

Monitoring both mother and puppies closely supports early detection of complications. A normal postpartum discharge (lochia) is typically dark green, brownish, or mildly bloody and should gradually lessen over a few weeks. Excessive bleeding, foul odor, or abrupt changes in color may signal infection. Watch for trembling, fever, or significant loss of appetite in the mother, as these may indicate distress. Each puppy should breathe easily, nurse promptly, and stay warm. Any newborn refusing to feed or showing labored breathing needs immediate attention. Consistent observation and proper hygiene help maintain a healthy environment for mother and puppies.

Make An Appointment At Our Cavan Monaghan, ON Animal Hospital

Do you have any concerns about your pregnant dog? Are you looking into dog reproductive services? Please contact us, your Cavan Monaghan, ON pet hospital, today!