When you decide to add a female dog to your family, you might feel like you're ready to take on the world. But before you get too excited about all of the good times ahead, it's important to think about what comes next: pregnancy and labor care.
It's easy to forget that dogs are mammals just like humans, and they experience all of the same joys—and challenges—of pregnancy as we do. And while some owners may not be too worried about their dog's pregnancy, knowing what to expect can help ensure that your pet has a safe birth experience and the healthiest possible outcome for both mother and baby.
In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about having a healthy and safe pregnancy and labor for your dog.
How long do dog pregnancies last?
According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, "predicting the timing of a delivery might be problematic because the date of breeding does not necessarily correspond with the date of conception." The average gestation period for a dog is around nine weeks, but this can vary by breed.
Knowing how long dog pregnancies last is important for a number of reasons. First, it allows you to plan ahead and know when your dog will give birth. This can help you make arrangements for yourself and your family. It also allows you to arrange for any veterinary care that might be needed during the pregnancy or after the puppies are born.
Second, it helps you understand what's happening during different stages of labor and delivery. This can help you better support your dog during these processes, which could be stressful for both of you.
Finally, knowing how long dog pregnancies last may help you determine if there's something wrong with one or more of the puppies so that early intervention can occur before any problems become severe or life-threatening.
Signs of Dog Pregnancy
While there are a lot of factors that can't be seen from the outside, there are some signs your dog is pregnant.
Dogs are pregnant when they:
- They are more tired than usual.
- They have a swollen belly.
- They may refuse food or water.
- Their nipples become larger and darker and may leak milk.
- Their mammary glands will grow, too.
- They may experience mood swings and depression during pregnancy.
- Your dog is having trouble sleeping and doesn't want to go for walks as much as she used to.
We Offer the Best Care For Your Pets
Ortega Animal Care Center is a veterinary clinic and animal care provider that offers the best in comprehensive care for your dog, cat, rabbit or pocket pet. We are one-stop-shop for your furry friend’s boarding, daycare and grooming needs.
We know how hard it is to find a vet when you move to a new area, so we make it easy by providing convenient hours of operation and an online booking system so you can schedule an appointment at your convenience. If you have a pregnant dog, we are only one call away!
If you need more information about our services or would like to speak with one of our team members about scheduling an appointment for your pet’s care needs, don’t hesitate to contact us today!