6 Signs of a Pregnant Dog

Do you think there’s a chance your dog could be pregnant? Do you know what the signs of a pregnant dog are? If you have an intact female dog who has been around intact males, there’s a chance she could be pregnant.

In the article below, you’ll find out more information about what to look for to help you determine whether or not your dog is pregnant. Read through this list and, if you think your dog seems pregnant, don’t wait to take her to the veterinarian for a complete and thorough checkup.

Below are 6 common signs of a pregnant dog:

Weight and Appetite Increase

Your pregnant dog may start to have an increased appetite as she is eating for multiple puppies now. If your dog’s appetite increases, there could be other causes, but pregnancy is certainly one of them.

The more your dog eats, naturally, the more weight she is going to gain. If your dog gains weight steadily throughout her pregnancy this is probably fine, but you should speak to your vet for specific information about your dog’s individual needs as well. She may need to go on a special diet after the puppies come to help get her back to her usual weight.

Larger Nipples

As your dog’s due date nears, her nipples will start to swell as her body prepares to nurse puppies. Swollen nipples occur a little bit later on in dog pregnancies, but they are sometimes the first indicator that unexpecting dog owners have of an accidental litter.

If you notice that only one or two of your dog’s nipples look swollen, this can be an indicator of some other health issues. However, if all of her nipples are swollen, this is a tell-tale sign that she is pregnant and you should expect puppies in the near future.

Nesting

Dogs who are expecting puppies may start nesting behaviors. This may mean that they start digging more often, rip up clothes and sheets that they never used to chew on before, or groom themselves more often. Nesting behaviors may also present as dogs who simply want to spend more time comfortably curled up in bed, waiting for the arrival of their pups.

If your dog is nesting, then she’s probably pregnant. You can help her by providing a comfortable and safe area for her that is secluded from the rest of the household. She will feel more content in an out of the way location.

Behavioral Changes

If your dog is pregnant, you may notice that she becomes more irritable, aggressive, and territorial as she prepares for her puppies to come. These changes occur because of changes in her hormones as well as her instinctive need to protect herself and her puppies.

Pregnant dogs may, on the other hand, become much more affectionate than normal. This usually happens because your dog is looking to you for some comfort and protection during this time in her life. If you notice your dog becoming clingy and you’ve seen some of the other signs on this list, too, then she is probably pregnant.

Easily Tired

Dogs who are pregnant may become tired more easily than those who are not. If you’ve noticed your dog’s energy levels dropping from their normal levels and you think she could be pregnant, this may be another strong sign.

Becoming tired easily may also mean that your dog is sick, however, so you shouldn’t ignore this symptom. If it occurs without any of the others on this list, there’s a chance your dog has come down with some type of illness and should be treated. Only a vet can tell you for sure.

Vomiting

Although it’s rare, some dogs may experience a canine form of “morning sickness,” more or less. Dogs who are pregnant may vomit often and have less interest in food for the first couple of weeks of the pregnancy.

However, vomiting and lack of appetite are also symptoms of a wide range of other dog conditions and illnesses. If this is the only sign your dog is exhibiting, you should take her to the vet, as there may be something else going on with her other than pregnancy.

Go to a Vet if Your Pet Shows Any Signs of a Pregnant Dog

If you’ve determined that there’s a good chance your dog is pregnant, take her to the vet to confirm. From there, the vet will let you know what you need to do to take care of your pregnant dog as well as her puppies moving forward.

Remember that you should always have your pets spayed or neutered if you want to prevent accidental litters. If you are breeding your dog on purpose, make sure you recognize what a big commitment this is and just how costly and time-consuming it can be for you as well. When you go into the situation prepared with information, you’ll be better off.

Call The Village Vets today if your pet is experiencing signs of a pregnant dog. Our experienced and compassionate team will help guide you on the best path for your dog and her future puppies.