How to Tell if a Dog is Pregnant

Methods of determining dog pregnancy include abdominal palpation, radiographic diagnosis, and ultrasonic diagnosis. Abdominal palpation can be used for early diagnosis about 20 days after breeding, and the most suitable period for pregnancy diagnosis is around 30 days. Radiographic diagnosis can be performed after 42 days of pregnancy to determine the pregnancy and to distinguish between true and false pregnancy. Ultrasonic diagnosis can be used after 27 days of pregnancy and can determine the number of fetuses.

The pregnancy period for dogs is 58 to 63 days. There are usually no significant uterine changes in the first 18 days, so it is temporarily impossible to determine whether the dog is pregnant. However, after 20 days of pregnancy, abdominal palpation can feel a localized enlargement. Around day 30 of pregnancy, abdominal palpation can detect tension. At about day 50, the fetus becomes larger and the posterior uterus can be felt. From day 55 to 68, the fetuses develop towards maturity, and it is easier to touch the fetuses when touching the abdomen.

Of course, the most accurate ways to determine dog pregnancy are radiographic and ultrasonic diagnosis. When the pregnancy exceeds 42 days, radiographic diagnosis can make an accurate pregnancy judgment and distinguish between true and false pregnancy. Generally, ultrasonic diagnosis can be used for diagnosis between days 29 and 44 of pregnancy. If a rapid ultrasound scanner is used, pregnancy can be diagnosed after 27 days, and the number of fetuses can be determined based on the fetal heartbeat.

After determining that a dog is pregnant, it is necessary to have a reasonable diet. It is recommended to adopt a feeding method of multiple small meals and moderately increase the intake of nutrients such as protein and fat.

When a dog shows signs of restlessness, digging, and biting items, it is likely to give birth within 1 to 2 days. Pet owners should prepare related items in advance, such as blankets, delivery beds, and urine pads. When a dog shows signs of labor pain, increased urination, and accelerated breathing, it means that labor is imminent. If the dog does not give birth after a long period, it may indicate a difficult labor and it is recommended to seek medical attention in a timely manner.