Dog Pregnancy Calculator
When Will My Dog Give Birth? Let’s Find Out with the Dog Pregnancy Calculator!
If you’re a dog lover eagerly awaiting the arrival of new puppies, you probably find yourself asking, “When is my dog due?” Our Dog Pregnancy Calculator is here to help you get a good estimate of your pet’s big day, making it a little easier to prepare for the arrival of those adorable puppies.
How to Calculate Your Dog’s Due Date
With the right information, calculating your dog’s due date is actually pretty simple. All you need is the date your dog mated, plus the average gestation period of 63 days.
Here’s the basic formula:
Due Date = Date of Mating + 63 Days
If you want a range, you can use the 57-65 day window. This way, you’ll have an early and a late estimate in case the puppies decide to arrive a bit sooner or later than expected.
Signs Your Dog May Be Pregnant
Even though your dog can’t tell you she’s expecting, there are some pretty clear signs to look out for that might signal pregnancy. Common indicators include:
- Increased Appetite – Pregnant dogs often show a noticeable boost in hunger.
- Swollen Belly – As the puppies grow, so does her belly.
- Bigger Nipples – Pregnancy hormones can cause the nipples to swell.
- Tiredness – She may get tired more easily as her body adapts.
- Behavior Changes – Some dogs become more affectionate, while others might get a bit moody.
If your dog is showing some of these signs, a trip to the vet can confirm pregnancy. Here’s what your vet might do:
- Hormone Test – A blood test that checks for relaxin, a pregnancy hormone, around 21-25 days after mating.
- Ultrasound – Detects puppies as early as 30 days.
- X-ray – Useful after 45 days to actually see the puppies.
- Palpation – Around day 28, your vet can gently feel for puppies by pressing on her abdomen.
How to Care for Your Pregnant Dog?
During pregnancy, your dog will need a little extra TLC. Here are a few important tips to keep her comfortable and healthy.
Routine Vet Checkups
Frequent vet visits will help keep everything on track. Your vet may want to do some tests, check her vaccinations, and watch for any potential health issues.
Diet and Nutrition
For the first half of the pregnancy, your dog can continue her usual diet if it’s balanced and high-quality. Around the halfway mark, gradually increase her food by 15-25% to help her meet her nutritional needs as the puppies grow. During the last few weeks, her food intake might need to increase by up to 50%!
It’s a good idea to choose a food specifically formulated for pregnancy or growth. This ensures she’s getting the right nutrients and calories without needing extra supplements (unless recommended by your vet).
Gentle Exercise
Pregnant dogs still need exercise, but keep it light – avoid any heavy workouts. During the final three weeks, it’s wise to keep her indoors as much as possible to prevent exposure to illnesses or parasites.
Create a Whelping Box
As her due date approaches, prepare a cozy spot for her to give birth. A whelping box, placed in a warm, quiet area, will give her a safe space to nest and deliver. It’s best to introduce her to this space a week or so before her due date, so she feels comfortable.
When It’s Almost Time: Signs of Labor
A few days before labor, most dogs show signs that delivery is close. Here are a few to watch out for:
- 1. Temperature Drop – Her body temperature may drop by about 1.8 °F.
- 2. Rapid Breathing – She may start breathing faster.
- 3. Nesting Behavior – Many dogs will gather toys or blankets and seek a quiet, secluded area.
Labor itself can last from 12 to 60 hours, so it’s helpful to have some supplies ready, like sterile gloves, scissors, and a bottle of puppy formula, just in case.
Common Questions About Dog Pregnancy
How Many Puppies Will She Have?
Litter sizes depend on factors like breed, health, and other individual factors. Small breeds may have only 1-4 puppies, while larger breeds often have 8-12 or more.
What If I Don’t Know the Exact Mating Date?
If you’re unsure about the exact date, your vet can estimate it through an ultrasound or hormone test. Later on, an X-ray can help give an idea of how far along she is.
How Do I Know if She’s Ready to Give Birth?
Aside from the temperature drop, signs like nesting, restlessness, and decreased appetite are good indicators that labor is coming up soon.
Once the puppies arrive, keep chocolate and other harmful foods well out of reach. Puppies are curious and will start exploring as they grow, so it’s best to dog-proof your home early. If you’re curious, you can also look up a dog chocolate toxicity calculator to understand why chocolate is dangerous for dogs.