Calculate your dog's due date and get a week-by-week pregnancy timeline. Track important milestones from conception to whelping.
Fertilization and implantation. Few visible signs. Maintain normal routine.
Embryos develop. Vet can confirm pregnancy. Morning sickness possible.
Puppies fully formed. Nesting begins. Prepare whelping box.
Dog pregnancy (gestation) lasts approximately 63 days or about 9 weeks from the date of conception. However, it can range from 58 to 68 days depending on the breed and individual dog.
Early signs include decreased appetite, nipple enlargement, and behavioral changes around 2-3 weeks. Later signs include weight gain, enlarged abdomen, nesting behavior, and increased appetite in the final weeks.
A veterinarian can confirm pregnancy via ultrasound around 25-30 days after breeding, or through abdominal palpation at 28-35 days. Blood tests can detect pregnancy hormones after day 25.
Litter size varies by breed. Small breeds typically have 1-4 puppies, medium breeds 4-8, and large breeds 8-12 or more. Your vet can estimate litter size via X-ray after day 45.
During the first 5 weeks, maintain her regular diet. In the last 4 weeks, gradually switch to high-quality puppy food and increase portions by 25-50%. Fresh dog food subscriptions often offer pregnancy-specific nutrition.
Set up a whelping box 1-2 weeks before the due date (around day 50-55). Choose a quiet, warm location and let your dog get comfortable with it before labor begins.