How to Know If Your Dog Is Pregnant

By Rena Sherwood

Instructions

Things You’ll Need:

Veterinarian, preferably one with an ultrasound device
Dog thermometer (optional)

Step 1:
Take note of changes in your dog's energy level. The first sign of canine pregnancy is that your dog will want to be left alone more than usual. She will feel really tired and lose interest in playing.
Step 2:
Check to see if your dog's nipples are getting bigger. This can be a sign of a real or false pregnancy. Either one needs veterinary attention.
Step 3:
Take your dog to your vet. The vet can do a non-invasive test called a "palpitation" when the puppies are 28 days old. An ultrasound would need to be done if the puppies are suspected of being younger than that.
Step 4:
Watch for changes in your dog's eating patterns. When the puppies are about one month old, their mother's appetite will become enourmous. Her nipples will also become large and stay large. She should start showing a bump at this time. These are tell-tale signs that puppies are on the way.
Step 5:
Watch her behavior as time goes on. When the third month of pregnancy approaches, Mom will look for dark, quiet, warm corners of your home to try and choose a place to make her nest. She might even drag her favorite toys to these places. You'd best make a nest for her and encourage her to go there.
Step 6:
Take her temperature as the day gets close. Your dog will usually give birth (whelp) within 24 hours from when her temperature drops to 99 degrees F. (Her normal temperature should be 101 to 102 degrees F.)

Tips & Warnings

Use an ear thermometer rather than the usual anal thermometer. (Your dog will prefer it, and so will you).
Do NOT use this article in the place of taking your dog to see the vet!

Resources

Photo/Video Credit

Photo of Irma By Manooze

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