Understanding the Stages of Dog Pregnancy: What to Expect Week by Week
- Serge and Veronika
- Apr 7
- 3 min read
Dog pregnancy, also known as gestation, typically lasts about 63 days (around 9 weeks), but just like in humans, this can vary slight
ly depending on the individual dog. Whether you're a breeder, a pet parent, or just curious, understanding the stages of pregnancy in dogs can help you better care for your expectant mama and prepare for the arrival of the puppies.
Let’s walk through the journey, week by week, and see what changes occur in both the mother and her developing puppies.
Weeks 1–2: Fertilization and Early Changes
What's happening inside:
After mating, the sperm meets the egg and fertilization occurs.
Fertilized eggs travel into the uterus and begin dividing into cells.
By the end of week 2, they will embed themselves in the uterine lining.
Changes in the dog:
Physically, not much will be noticeable yet.
Some dogs may show mild behavioral changes—being more affectionate or slightly tired.
It's important to maintain a calm environment and avoid stress.
What to do:
Keep your dog on her regular diet and exercise routine.
Avoid vaccines and medications unless approved by your vet.
Weeks 3–4: Embryo Development
What's happening inside:
The embryos begin to form vital organs, spinal cords, and basic facial features.
By day 28, a vet can often detect the pregnancy via ultrasound.
Changes in the dog:
You may notice some early signs like:
Morning sickness
Increased appetite
Enlarged nipples
Slight weight gain
What to do:
Visit your vet to confirm the pregnancy.
Begin feeding a high-quality, nutrient-rich food if advised.
Reduce strenuous activity, but continue light walks.
Weeks 5–6: Rapid Growth and Body Changes
What's happening inside:
The fetuses now resemble tiny puppies, complete with eyelids, toes, claws, and whiskers.
By the end of week 6, they have skin pigmentation and are growing rapidly in size.
Changes in the dog:
The belly becomes noticeably larger.
Appetite increases significantly.
Behavior may shift—nesting behavior might begin.
Clear vaginal discharge is normal.
What to do:
Switch to a premium puppy food for added nutrition.
Prepare a quiet, cozy whelping area for the upcoming birth.
Limit rough play or jumping.
Weeks 7–8: Final Development and Nesting
What's happening inside:
Puppies are fully formed and continue gaining weight.
They begin to move more; you may see or feel them kicking.
Changes in the dog:
Nesting behavior intensifies—she may seek out warm, dark places.
Her mammary glands swell, and colostrum may leak.
She may start acting more protective or restless.
What to do:
Monitor her closely for signs of early labor.
Keep her indoors and away from other dogs.
Provide plenty of clean bedding in her whelping box.
Week 9: Labor and Delivery (Whelping Time!)
What's happening inside:
The puppies begin to position themselves for birth.
Labor typically begins within days.
Signs of labor:
Drop in body temperature below 99°F (check regularly).
Refusal to eat
Panting, pacing, shivering
Vomiting or restlessness
Active contractions and delivery of puppies
What to do:
Stay calm and be ready to assist or call your vet if needed.
Most dogs handle labor on their own, but watch for:
Extended periods between puppies (over 2 hours)
Excessive bleeding
Signs of distress
After Birth: Caring for Mama and Puppies
Once the puppies are born, your dog will instinctively begin to clean and nurse them. Make sure she has a quiet, clean space, and offer her plenty of water and food to support milk production. Keep the puppies warm and monitor their weight and feeding.
Final Thoughts:
Dog pregnancy is a miraculous and delicate process. Being informed and prepared helps ensure a smooth and safe experience for both mom and puppies. Regular vet checkups and attentive care can make all the difference during these nine weeks of growth, change, and anticipation.
If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to your veterinarian—they’re your best guide throughout this incredible journey.
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