Pregnancy in dogs: clinical signs, how to detect it and some advice
If the pregnancy was chosen by the owners, a prior medical check-up is advisable to make sure that the dog is in good health and does not have any congenital or hereditary diseases. The female dog should be up to date with her vaccination programme before mating, as this will help guarantee that maximum immunity is passed on to the puppies. She should be dewormed after mating, but not until the 4th to 6th week of gestation.The delivery date will be estimated based on the mating date and might have to be brought forward if the female is carrying a very big litter or the puppies are large.
Signs of pregnancy in dogs
Conception does not always occur after mating, but some clinical signs become evident during the pregnancy in dogs, indicating that the gestation period has begun. There are not usually any external signs visible in the first few weeks, but if anything, the animal may gain weight. Hormonal changes can cause morning sickness during the 3rd to 4th week. Some dogs may develop a loss of appetite and seem apathetic or even depressed.
From day 25–30 onwards, the teats start to swell and become more prominent. The nipples will also take on a darker tone. Changes in vaginal discharge are also frequent, with some pregnant dogs developing white or clear vaginal secretions.
Confirming pregnancy in dogs
The veterinary surgeon can confirm the pregnancy while also checking for any early complications.By palpating the abdomen, vets can detect a thickening of the uterus and the presence of “lumps”. After 21–25 days, a blood test should be performed to check hormone levels; females have higher relaxin concentrations during pregnancy.
Rapid tests should not be used to diagnose pregnancy in dogs, as they always return a positive result due to hormonal changes during the heat cycle. Most vets use diagnostic imaging, performing an abdominal ultrasound on day 28. This method is reliable and noninvasive for both the mother and puppies. The puppies’ heartbeat can also be detected at this point using a stethoscope or electrocardiogram.
X-rays are recommended from approximately day 42; before this, foetuses may suffer adverse effects if exposed to radiation too soon. The size of the litter varies according to the physiological state, breed and age of the female. The average number of puppies is 1 to 4 in small breeds, while large breeds may produce as many as 8 to 10.
Looking after a pregnant dog
Owners should always consult the vet for advice during the gestation process. They should pay attention to the female’s diet to ensure her good health and optimal development of the puppies.
Pregnant dogs do not begin to gain weight until the 5th–6th week of pregnancy. From this point onwards, her diet should be modified, changing to a high-quality diet for
puppies (such as the Advance Baby Protect Puppy Mini, Medium or Maxi range). The amount of food must be increased gradually each week so that the animal can cope with this period of increased physiological demand for nutrients.
The female dog should drink plenty of water and keep well hydrated; so, she should always have plenty of fresh, clean water available. She can continue to enjoy her daily walks, although they should be shorter, and will probably feel more uncomfortable and tired as the pregnancy progresses.
Before the delivery date, owners can prepare a “nest” with blankets or towels in a cardboard box or buy a square-shaped structure called a “whelping box”. The aim is to make the dog feel comfortable and safe. About 24 hours before the birth, the expectant mother may become restless and uninterested in food. She will look for a secluded place to relax and give birth without being bothered.
During the pregnancy, it is always advisable to ask a veterinarian surgeon for advice and give the future mother all the care and attention she needs.
