Signs of pregnancy in a dog at different times. Rules for maintenance and care

2024 Author: Priscilla Miln | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 00:21

In order for the birth of your four-legged pet to be successful and without complications, and the puppies to be born strong and he althy, during pregnancy, the dog must be especially carefully looked after. It is very important to change the diet and exercise in a timely manner. Therefore, you need to know how to determine the pregnancy in a dog.

Duration of the "interesting" position

On average, a normal pregnancy for our smaller friends lasts 61-66 days, that is, about two months. There are deviations, but small ones. The exact gestational age in dogs depends both on the breed and on the individual characteristics of the organism and the number of puppies. It can vary from 57 to 72 days.

When can you tell if a dog is pregnant?

To find out for sure whether the mating was successful, it will be possible to find out only after 1, 5-2 weeks. Noticeable signs of pregnancy in a dog appear only a month after conception. However, professionals may noticeslight changes in the behavior of the animal, which may indicate the onset of an "interesting" situation. If the pregnancy is the first, then the belly of a four-legged pet can be rounded just before the very birth. Today it is not necessary to guess whether the mating was successful. You can contact the veterinary clinic and in the first month of pregnancy to find out the exact data on the condition of your dog. This can be done with an ultrasound.

Pregnancy test

Signs of pregnancy in a dog help to find out about the condition of the pet early. However, today veterinary clinics also offer an early diagnosis service using a special test. This is a blood test that will show the level of the hormone relaxin. By the second week of pregnancy, it begins to grow. This may indicate the onset of an "interesting" situation. If you conduct this test by the end of the first month of pregnancy, then the result can be obtained 100%.

Ultrasound diagnostics

The most reliable way to find out if a dog is pregnant is an ultrasound. The procedure is carried out from 24 to 35 days after mating. At this time, you can accurately see not only the presence of puppies, but also find out their exact number, predict the course of pregnancy. In order to more accurately diagnose, ultrasound is done at a later date. For example, 38-45 days after mating. You can trace the formation of babies, draw conclusions about their he alth and readiness for birth.

Early signs of pregnancy in dogs

To any dog ownerI want to know as soon as possible whether the mating was successful. An attentive owner will be able to determine pregnancy in the early stages if he observes the behavior of his pet. The dog after mating behaves as usual. The first call may be a decrease in appetite. Fertilization occurred - the hormonal background began to change. And the dog feels it. The body is under stress. This can be reflected in poor he alth, lack of appetite, anxiety.

You won't believe it, but dogs have toxicosis too! The body can react to the onset of pregnancy with vomiting and diarrhea. This is a temporary phenomenon that will not last long. Make sure your pet is comfortable and at ease. Toxicosis is an early sign of pregnancy. If vomiting appeared in the second month, this is a bad sign. In this case, you need to urgently consult a doctor. Changes in behavior can also indicate an "interesting" situation. An active dog can become affectionate, refuse violent games in favor of quiet evenings in the company of the owner. There may also be aggression and anxiety. The animal is able to worry and react negatively to touch, especially in the back and abdomen.

A dog can become passive if he is often overcome by drowsiness. Some moms-to-be can literally sleep for days on end. It is very important not to forget that a decrease in activity and lack of appetite also indicates the onset of the disease. Therefore, if your dog has become passive and stopped eating, you should immediately contact your veterinarian. He will be able to accurately determine whether such behavior is a disease orwhims of the expectant mother. In the second week of pregnancy, there may be a change in the nipples. They swell, changing color.

Signs of false pregnancy in dogs

The phenomenon of false pregnancy is not uncommon in the canine world. It occurs a month after estrus in unbred females or in case of unsuccessful mating. At the same time, the hormonal background changes in the same way as in a fertilized dog: all early signs of pregnancy are present. The animal's nipples swell, colostrum is secreted. The female can set up a den and even treat her toys like puppies. Signs of a false pregnancy in dogs usually go away on their own in 2-3 weeks. In some cases, veterinary help and hormone therapy may be needed.

Clinical signs

4 weeks after mating, it is already clear whether the dog is pregnant. Hormonal storms will subside, the behavior of the four-legged pet will return to normal. Puppies in the second month of pregnancy are actively growing. The dog's belly begins to round. She often rolls over in her sleep, and can lie down on the bedding for a long time. There are signs by which one can judge the normal course of pregnancy. The animal has a good appetite. Moreover, if the diet of the expectant mother is made correctly, it is balanced and satisfying, then she will not eat for three. The usual amount of food will be enough for her.

A dog protects its belly, letting only its owner close to itself. If the animal had problems with the perception of strangers before, then it can become aggressiveattitude towards outsiders. Many animals don't like having their belly touched. In addition, there is a tone of the uterus. The abdomen becomes firm and elastic. This protects the growing puppies. The nipples swell, change color and become warm. They can fill up with colostrum. Clear mucous discharge may appear from the genitals, especially after urination.

From 25-30 days old, the puppies' heartbeats can be heard with a stethoscope. When you touch your stomach, you can feel the babies, their movements. Many veterinarians do not recommend ultrasound before 35-40 days. This gestational age in dogs allows you to determine the number of puppies and judge their he alth.

Last weeks of pregnancy

At the end of the second month, the position of the expectant mother is obvious. The belly is noticeably rounded and sagging, especially if many puppies are expected. The dog may recover a little, a layer of fat appears on the sides. And that's completely normal. However, if the appetite has increased or the dog has a tendency to be overweight and overeat, then a strict diet should be established. Excess weight will not benefit either the mother or the puppies. Therefore, overfeeding the animal is prohibited. Obesity will negatively affect childbirth and subsequently affect the he alth of the dog.

Motor activity of the animal during this period is significantly reduced. It is already difficult for her to move, she saves strength before childbirth. If necessary, the walking time should be reduced, and in some cases even the bowls of food and water should be moved closer to the bed. And provideanimal peace. If you put your hand on the dog's stomach, you can clearly feel the movements of the babies.

Caring for a pregnant dog

After the planned mating, without waiting for the first signs of pregnancy in the dog, the owners should begin to rebuild the schedule and diet. The place of the animal should be large so that the expectant mother can lie comfortably even with a grown tummy. If necessary, the sunbed must be increased. Females in the position are more picky about the litter, as it is difficult for them to find a comfortable position. If a four-legged pet has begun to refuse any products, for example, eggs or milk, you should not force her. This can lead to dysbacteriosis and allergies. Early pregnancy in dogs is the time to take a course of vitamins. Calcium, magnesium, ascorbic acid are especially needed. These can be powders or dietary supplements.

You should not limit your pet on walks. The dog itself will understand when it is time to stop active games. At the same time, it is also important that the expectant mother goes outside. Sunbathing is useful for her, which is necessary for metabolism and the synthesis of vitamins. Peace is important for a dog in position, so the place should be in a quiet corner where the animal will not be annoyed by children and other pets with excessive attention. Do not let a pregnant bitch lie on a cold surface for a long time: concrete, earth, wet grass. Car trips will also have to be curtailed as many pregnant dogs begin to become motion sick.

Also, a pregnant bitch needs the mostprotect from jumps, falls, active games with other animals. Be as careful as possible on stairs and avoid them if possible. Find a veterinarian in advance who will manage the pregnancy and deliver the baby. It will be possible to urgently contact him in case of force majeure situations. Pregnancy in small breed dogs is often under the close supervision of a veterinarian, as many are unable to give birth on their own and will need surgery. Monitor the condition of the animal. Remember that during pregnancy, all diseases are exacerbated and possible he alth problems make themselves felt. For example, brachycephalic dogs may experience difficulty breathing and large dogs may suffer from joint pain.

How to raise a pregnant dog?

Dogs in position often deteriorate in character. They can become moody. Some cease to obey the owner and follow commands. The pet may simply lie on the ground and refuse to move on. Often there are situations when the dog needs to be picked up and put on its paws. First, make sure that the animal has not become ill. If the breath is even, the look is clear, you can raise it. Never touch your stomach. Place one hand under the chest, support the pelvis with the other. You need to put the dog on all four paws. Do not let go of your hands until you are sure that she is standing on her own.

Early signs of pregnancy in a dog will help you quickly find out if the mating went well. However, changing the usual way of life should begin immediately after the alleged conception. Proper care and attention will contribute tohe althy pregnancy.