Dog Pregnancy

Name: Veterinary Services
Brand: Whittington Veterinary Clinic

Dog Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Dog pregnancy is an exciting time—but it can also come with questions and concerns. From preparing for breeding to helping your dog safely deliver and recover, there’s a lot to consider.

At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we’re here to guide you with reliable, veterinarian-approved information, so you don’t have to rely on uncertain advice from online sources.

How to Support a Healthy Pregnancy

Before breeding, your dog should be examined to ensure she’s in good health. We may recommend:

Brucellosis testing to screen for contagious disease
Parasite screening, as intestinal worms can pass to puppies
General wellness check to confirm she’s physically ready for pregnancy

These steps help ensure a smoother delivery and healthier puppies.

How Long Are Dogs Pregnant?

The average gestation period for dogs is about 63 days, or roughly nine weeks.

When to Schedule a Pregnancy Check

If you suspect pregnancy, we recommend scheduling a visit around three weeks after breeding. At Whittington Veterinary Clinic, we use ultrasound to confirm pregnancy, typically around 28–30 days post-breeding, when the embryos are visible and can be accurately assessed.

Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs

Early signs can be subtle, but as pregnancy progresses, you may notice:

Enlarged mammary glands or milk production
A swollen belly (after 30–40 days)
Nesting behavior or irritability
Increased tiredness or changes in appetite

How X-Rays Help Prepare for Delivery

X-rays are typically performed after day 50 of pregnancy, once the puppies’ bones have mineralized and become visible on radiographs. This allows us to accurately count the number of puppies, assess their positioning for delivery, and identify any potential complications—such as an unusually large puppy or abnormal positioning that may affect the birthing process.

This information becomes especially valuable as your dog nears labor, helping both you and our team know what to expect and how to best prepare.

Complications to Watch for

While most pregnancies go smoothly, be aware of possible complications:

Excessive milk production (may require added calcium or calories)
Gestational diabetes
Mastitis (infection of mammary glands)
Retained placenta or uterine infection

Preparing for Labor

Create a quiet, padded whelping area—a warm, safe space away from noise or foot traffic. A kiddie pool with blankets or a clean box in a closet works well. Have towels and warm water nearby as the due date approaches.

After Birth: What to Expect

Your dog will likely handle most of the birthing process on her own. She’ll clean the puppies, eat the placenta, and sever umbilical cords naturally.

However, call us if:

She pushes for 30+ minutes without delivering
There’s a 4+ hour gap between puppies
A placenta doesn’t pass after a puppy is born
She refuses to nurse or care for the puppies