How Long is a Dog Pregnant? A Guide

Posted 3 months ago by Adam. 0 comments

New arrivals are always exciting, but if your dog is pregnant or you've reserved a puppy from a breeder's litter and are counting down the days, the wait can feel eternal. 🕟

Fortunately, there's plenty of prep you could be doing that will keep you busy and help make the long wait fly by!

Keep reading to get some idea of what to expect as you wait on the birth of your new puppy, including tips on how to prepare for its arrival. We'll also touch on some of the challenges you might face in the early stages of introducing a puppy into your home. 💩

How long is gestation for dogs?

A dog's pregnancy can last anywhere between 56 and 70 days, with the average gestation period lasting 63 days.

How long the dog is pregnant is determined by several factors, including the dog's breed and its overall health.

Larger breeds tend to experience longer gestation periods compared to smaller breeds, but this is not a strict rule and there can be exceptions.

Older dogs aren't thought to have longer pregnancies on average, but as older dogs are more likely to suffer from health conditions and experience complications during gestation, the pregnancy may be a difficult one and therefore seem longer.

Pregnancy can place significant physical stress on a dog, and in older dogs this stress is magnified. Older dogs are also at higher risk of delivering stillborn puppies or having litters with health problems. For these reasons, responsible breeders and pet owners usually retire dogs from breeding after five to seven years, depending on the breed and health of the dog.

Close veterinary monitoring is advised throughout any pregnancy but especially so where older dogs are concerned, and it's wise to avoid pregnancy in dogs with pre-existing health conditions due to the increased risk to the mother and her litter.

What can lead to premature labour in dogs?

Health issues

Conditions such as hormonal imbalances, infections or reproductive issues can cause a pregnancy to end earlier than expected, resulting in premature labour. This can be dangerous not only for the mother, but the puppies as well, with premature pups often needing help to survive infancy.

Stress

A mother dog that's stressed during gestation - due to environmental, nutritional or other issues - is more likely to end her pregnancy early compared to a dog living in better circumstances, and it's thought that these prenatal stresses could also impact the wellbeing and behaviour of her litter.

This is why we strongly recommend you choose a breeder who allows you to visit the mother at her home and is open to you asking questions.

If it's your dog that's pregnant, it's important to provide a quiet, comfortable space for her, particularly as her pregnancy progresses towards labour.

Diet is also extremely important as it's necessary to maintain a dog's weight during pregnancy, and in the lead-up to labour she'll need more energy and nutrients. After six weeks gestation many breeders will transition a pregnant bitch to puppy food, as this is nutritionally more dense than adult food. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids (DHA) will also help puppy development in utero and during milk production. 🦴

Genetic factors

Certain smaller breeds of dog tend to have shorter gestation periods but this isn't a rule and it shouldn't result in premature labour.

However, genetics may play a role in the timing of your puppy's delivery. If the mother has siblings that have experienced premature labour in the past, this could increase the likelihood that your puppy will be delivered prematurely, so it may be worth asking the breeder about the mother's family history as well as the dog's own medical history.

Number of prior pregnancies

A dog that's already had a number of pregnancies in the past may experience increasingly shorter gestation periods, but this wouldn't necessarily lead to premature labour, except in an older dog where age or a health condition were the root cause.

What causes a longer gestation period in dogs?

Breed size

Again, this isn't a rule and doesn't normally lead to significant differences in the length of gestation, but some larger breeds 🐩 do on average tend to have slightly longer pregnancies than smaller breeds.

Litter size

Although this may seem counterintuitive, mothers with a smaller litter may experience a longer pregnancy due to some of the hormonal signals that trigger labour not being as strong as they would have been had she had a larger litter.

Health problems

Certain health conditions, including uterine infections, can prevent the normal progression of pregnancy and delay the onset of labour. That's why responsible breeders will monitor pregnant bitches closely to ensure they're in good health throughout their pregnancy, and it's also why we recommend you visit the mother to get a sense of her health and wellbeing. 🐕

Human error

Depending on how your puppy was conceived, it's not uncommon for breeders to get confused about the mating date or ovulation time. So if conception occurred later than was recorded, a normal gestation period may seem to be dragging out longer than it should, resulting in misplaced concern about the health of the mother and her litter.

On the flip side, where conception occurred earlier than thought, a breeder may not recognise that a mother is experiencing an extended pregnancy and requires veterinary attention, and this is why responsible breeders do take great care to accurately record mating dates and ovulation.

Dog owners unused to breeding dogs are more likely to make this kind of error, especially if the pregnancy was unplanned or the dog was allowed to continue mating following a planned conception.

Hormonal issues

If progesterone levels fail to drop sufficiently during gestation, the pregnancy can be extended and could result in difficult labour (known as dystocia).

Oxytocin is another hormone that can impact the length of the gestation period as it triggers uterine contractions, initiating the birthing process, and also helps expel the placenta following delivery of the litter. Oxytocin deficiency can result in prolonged labour, retained placenta and increase the risk of postpartum bleeding.

If a dog's pregnancy extends beyond 70 days, any responsible breeder will consult with a veterinarian who can check for potential complications or other health concerns. For example, synthetic oxytocin can be administered to stimulate labour, but only under veterinary supervision due to the possibility of complications.

Stages of pregnancy in dogs

Whether it's your dog that's pregnant or you've reserved a puppy from a breeder's litter, understanding dog gestation stages can help you monitor the health of the mother or simply prepare for the exciting arrival of her litter.

Here's a month-by-month breakdown of what to expect during the pregnancy.

Month 1: Fertilisation and early development (days 0-30)

Week 1 (days 0-7)

Fertilisation occurs soon after mating, with sperm 💦 meeting the eggs in the fallopian tubes. The fertilised eggs begin dividing into cells and slowly travel to the uterus.

Week 2 (days 7-14)

The embryos enter the uterus and begin to implant in the uterine wall. At this point, the mother may show no outward signs of pregnancy, but internally the embryos are starting to develop vital organs.

Week 3 (days 14-21)

The embryos continue to grow, forming into early-stage foetuses. Around this time, a veterinarian might be able to detect pregnancy through an ultrasound. You or your breeder may also notice subtle changes to the mother's behaviour, such as increased tiredness or a slight decrease in appetite.

Week 4 (days 21-28)

The foetuses begin to take shape, developing their eyes, spine, and other key structures. By the end of the first month they will have grown to around a centimetre long. The mother may start experiencing morning sickness due to hormonal changes, similar to early pregnancy in humans. 🫃🏻

What to do

If it's your dog that's pregnant, you should ensure she's eating a high-quality diet and avoiding strenuous exercise. Schedule a veterinary check-up around the 4-week mark to confirm the pregnancy and assess her overall health.

Month 2: Rapid foetal growth (days 31-60)

Week 5 (days 28-35)

The foetuses experience a growth spurt, developing their organs, limbs, and even their facial features. The mother's abdomen will start to swell as the puppies grow, but this can be quite subtle in appearance and will depend on her breed and weight prior to gestation. Her appetite may increase as her body requires more energy to support the developing litter.

Week 6 (days 35-42)

The puppies' skeletons and fur begin to form, and around this time you might be able to feel slight movements in the mother's belly as the puppies move. Her mammary glands may also start to enlarge, in preparation for milk production. 🍼

Week 7 (days 42-49)

The puppies' skeletons become more calcified, and at last they begin to resemble small dogs. The mother will noticeably gain weight, and her belly should grow quite round, with its size dependent on the litter size. She may show nesting behaviour, such as preparing a quiet, comfortable spot for the upcoming birth.

Week 8 (days 49-56)

The puppies are now almost fully developed in the womb and are positioning themselves for birth. The mother is likely to become more restless, and her appetite may decrease as the puppies press on her stomach and make it uncomfortable for her to eat large volumes of food. You may see clear signs of nesting as she prepares for labour. 🪺

What to do

At this stage, either you or the breeder should provide the mother with a comfortable, safe place to whelp. It's important to allow the mother to nest in a quiet, stress-free (child-free!) environment, and consider switching to a nutrient-rich puppy food that supports both her and her fast-developing puppies. Regular, gentle exercise is still good, but rough play or jumping should be avoided.

Month 3: Preparing for birth (days 61-68)

Week 9 (days 56-63)

The puppies are now fully developed and ready for birth.

The mother will show signs of preparing for labour, such as restlessness, pacing, and possibly refusing food. Her body temperature will drop to around 36.7°C (normal temperature for dogs is 38.3-38.9°C) about 24 hours before labour begins.

Labour and delivery

When labour begins, the mother will experience uterine contractions and the start of cervical dilation. This stage of labour can last anywhere from 6 to 12 hours. Once active labour begins, the puppies will be born, usually at intervals of 30-60 minutes. A typical litter consists of 4-6 puppies, but this can vary depending on the breed and size of the dog. 🐶🐶🐶🐶🐶🐶

What to do

As the owner of a pregnant dog you'll be monitoring your dog closely for signs of labour, such as nesting, panting, or contractions. Ensure she has a quiet, clean, and comfortable whelping area. If labour takes too long or you notice any complications, such as prolonged straining without delivery, you should contact a veterinarian immediately.

A dog's pregnancy is a relatively short but intense process, with rapid changes and development occurring over a span of just two months. As a pet owner, you play a vital role in ensuring your dog receives proper care, nutrition, and veterinary support throughout each stage. By understanding the month-by-month progression of her pregnancy, you can help create the best possible conditions for a healthy delivery and welcome her new puppies with confidence.

If you've reserved a puppy from a breeder's litter, then the health of the mother and her pups is their responsibility, so it's essential that you choose a breeder with care. If you have any doubt, look elsewhere - and if you're based in the UK, report any animal welfare concerns to the RSPCA and your local authority.

Preparing for the new arrival

Introducing a new puppy into your home is an exciting experience, but it requires thorough preparation to ensure a smooth transition for you, your family and your new companion. From setting up a safe space to gathering essential supplies, the better prepared you are, the more comfortable and stress-free the process will be for everyone involved.

Fortunately, you've got plenty of time to get ready! If you've reserved a puppy from a litter, you'll not only have to patiently wait for the big day through to the pregnancy, but also the minimum eight-week nursing period - a necessity to ensure your puppy's development and good health.

Below are some key steps to take in the days and weeks leading up to your puppy's arrival from the breeder:

1. Create a safe and comfortable space

Before your new puppy arrives it's important to create an area in your home that's quiet, free from hazards and accessible. Somewhere your new pup will be able to settle comfortably.

• Choose a crate or bed
  A crate can provide a sense of security and is a valuable tool for house training. Make sure it's big enough for your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably in. Alternatively, place a cosy dog bed in a quiet spot, set away from foot traffic and the bustle of a busy home.
• Puppy-proof the area
  Aside from the discomfort of teething, puppies are naturally curious and may explore by chewing on things. Check the area for any potentially hazardous items, such as electrical cables, small objects they could swallow, and any toxic plants 🪴or substances ☣️ within their reach. You may consider using baby gates to restrict access to certain rooms. ⛔ If there are items of furniture you're keen not to see destroyed, placing them in the restricted rooms should save them.

2. Gather essential supplies

To make your puppy feel at home and to allow you to take care of their basic needs, stock up on essential supplies ahead of time. This will ensure you're ready for their arrival and won't have to rush out to the shops at the last minute. 🏃🏾‍♀️

• Food and water bowls
  Choose sturdy, non-tip bowls for your puppy's food and water. Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are easier to clean and more durable than plastic.
• Puppy food
  Ask the breeder what food your puppy's been eating and try to stick with the same brand and type, at least initially, to avoid upsetting their stomach. If you want to switch foods later, transition to the new food gradually over a period of a week.
• Chew toys
  Puppies love to chew, especially when teething. Provide them with a variety of safe chew toys to keep them entertained and prevent them from chewing on furniture or shoes. Rope toys or toys with knotted rope skeletons are the most durable.
• Collar, lead, and ID tag
  Get an adjustable collar (because puppies grow quickly) and a sturdy lead for walks and training. Your new puppy should have been microchipped by the breeder before being released to you, but we still recommend a pet tag with your contact details in case your puppy gets lost. Place the tag on a house collar that your puppy wears all the time, in case they manage to escape your home or garden.
• Puppy pads and cleaning supplies
  Accidents happen. In fact, with puppies they're inevitable, so be sure to have puppy pads for house training, as well as cleaning supplies on hand for quick clean-ups. There are carpet and upholstery cleaning products designed specifically to deal with dog-related accidents and odours.

3. Prepare for house training

House training should start from day one, so it's important to have a plan in place before your puppy arrives.

Consistency is key, and setting up a routine will make the process smoother.

• Choose a bathroom spot
  Decide where you want your puppy to go to the bathroom, whether it's a spot in the garden or a designated indoor area with puppy pads. Take your puppy to this spot frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. Remember that dog urine will kill grass and other foliage, so you may wish to avoid your puppy peeing on plants you care about.
• Establish a schedule
  Puppies thrive on routine. Plan to take them out regularly, such as first thing in the morning, after eating, and before bedtime. Consistent scheduling helps them learn when and where to go.
• Reward good behaviour 🌟
  Use positive reinforcement, such as treats and praise, when your puppy goes to the loo in the right spot. This helps them associate the behaviour with a reward and reinforces the habit.

4. Find a veterinarian and schedule a check-up

One of the most important steps before your puppy comes home is finding a vet you trust, as your puppy will need a series of vaccinations and regular check-ups to ensure they stay healthy.

• Research local vets
  Look for veterinarians who are experienced with puppies and have good reviews from other pet owners. If possible, ask pet-owning friends, family and neighbours for recommendations.
• Schedule an appointment 📅
  Book your puppy's first vet visit within a few days of bringing them home. This initial check-up will confirm that your pup is healthy and allow you to ask any questions about vaccinations, deworming, and flea prevention.

5. Research training techniques

Training your puppy will be an ongoing process, but it's a good idea to familiarise yourself with basic training principles before they arrive. The earlier you start with commands like “sit”, “stay” and “come”, the easier it will be for your puppy to learn.

• Positive reinforcement
  Puppies respond best to positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and play. Avoid punishment-based methods at all costs, as they lead to fear and anxiety.
• Socialisation
  Begin introducing your puppy to different environments, people, and other animals gradually. Proper socialisation is essential for developing a confident and well-behaved dog. However, be careful not to allow your puppy to socialise with unvaccinated dogs until your puppy has had a full set of vaccinations administered. A single vaccination will not protect them during this period.
• Consider puppy classes
  Look into local puppy training classes, which can help with basic obedience and socialisation in a structured environment.

6. Plan for the first few days

The first few days with your new puppy are crucial for bonding and establishing a routine. Set aside time to help them adjust to their new home.

• Introduce them slowly
  Allow your puppy to explore their new surroundings at their own pace. Keep things calm and give them time to settle in. Bear in mind that if they have unsupervised access to your entire house, they're likely to cause damage and come across objects that could cause them harm.
• Monitor feeding and bathroom habits 🚽
  Stick to a consistent feeding schedule, and take note of how often they need to go to the bathroom. This helps with house training and getting them into a routine.
• Be patient 🪷
  Puppies need time to adjust to new environments. They may be nervous, restless, or even cry during the first few nights. Be patient and offer plenty of reassurance as they adapt. That said, don't crowd them or inundate them with visitors during the early phase of their introduction to your home. Your friends and family will no doubt be keen to meet the new addition, but lots of visitors - and especially young visitors - could result in unnecessary stress. Puppies tend to get on well with children but you should still be careful not to overstimulate them in the initial stages of their development.

7. Prepare for long-term care

In addition to immediate preparations, it's important to think long-term about your puppy's care.

• Budget for expenses 💷
  Puppies come with ongoing costs, including food, vet visits, insurance, grooming, and supplies. Make sure you're financially prepared to meet these needs.
• Plan for exercise and play
  Irrespective of the breed, puppies are balls of energy and will need plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Make time each day for walks, playtime, and training exercises.
• Set rules for the household
  Establish household rules early on, such as where the puppy is allowed to go and what behaviours are acceptable. Consistency from all family members will help your puppy learn faster. The saying “you can't teach an old dog new tricks” holds true, as it's much simpler to establish lasting rules when training a puppy compared to a more mature dog.

Preparing for the arrival of your new puppy is an exciting process, and taking the time to get everything in place will help make the transition smoother for you, your family and your furry friend.

By creating a safe environment, gathering supplies, and planning ahead, you'll be ready to welcome your puppy into your home and start building a strong, loving bond from day one. ❤️