Taking Care of Your Pregnant Dog

Puppies are among the most adorable creatures on Earth. Dogs can create quite a few of them, too! Over the course of several years, a single pair of dogs can produce hundreds of puppies! Generally, dog pregnancies tend to unfold quite seamlessly. Just like any other expecting mama, though, your furry friend will require some extra love and care during this special time. Join us as a local Yorkville, IL vet shares valuable tips on how to care for your pregnant dog.

Important Information on Canine Pregnancy

In dogs, the gestation period typically lasts around two months, specifically 62 to 64 days. Of course, that’s not set in stone. Especially since the date of conception does not always align with the breeding date. The breed and the size of the litter can play a role as well. Litter sizes usually start at around 3 puppies, with the typical upper limit being about 15. There have been some notable exceptions on both sides of the spectrum.

In that initial month, fertilized eggs attach to the lining of the uterine horn. After that, they grow to twice their size roughly every week! In the second month, the tiny beans begin to resemble adorable puppies. 

How Can I Tell If My Dog Is Expecting? 

As a mama dog approaches her delivery date, it’s often pretty clear to see that she’s pregnant. But it can be a bit challenging to discern in the initial phases. Since you can’t grab a test from the pharmacy, your best option is to take your furry friend to your local Yorkville, IL vet clinic for some testing. 

The easiest method is palpation, which involves simply feeling for the puppies by hand. This is a great way to test by the end of the first month. That said, this task is best left to an experienced veterinarian.

After around 25 to 30 days, an ultrasound is a great option to consider. An ultrasound will reveal those tiny heartbeats, letting you discover just how many adorable little furballs your pet is nurturing! There are also other testing options available, such as hormone tests and X-rays.

What Are the Signs That a Dog Might Be Pregnant?

If you think your dog may be pregnant, it’s a good idea to seek professional care. But there are some telltale signs you can keep an eye out for. For example, you might notice that your furry companion has developed a sudden increase in appetite. After all, your pet could be eating for, anywhere from three to a dozen or more tiny pups! (Stay tuned for more on that later.) 

Here are some additional signs that your pups might be pregnant: 

• Weight gain
• Nipple growth
• Lack of energy

You should also keep an eye out for certain changes in behavior. For instance, pregnant dogs can sometimes be a little grumpy. Others are the opposite, craving extra cuddles and affection. Also watch for something known as nesting behavior.

Nurturing Your Expectant Mama 

Once you’ve confirmed that your furry friend is expecting, it’s time to shift your attention to ensuring her health and safety; while also making sure those adorable little puppies are getting all the nourishment they need.

Diet plays a vital role in this situation. If your pet is already enjoying a high-quality food and was at or close to her ideal weight before she got pregnant, you might just be able to stick with the same diet until the final weeks of her pregnancy. 

One important thing to note is that overfeeding a pregnant dog can pose serious risks. As your pet’s pregnancy progresses, you can gradually boost her caloric intake. At this stage, opting for small, frequent meals may be more beneficial than indulging fewer, larger ones. 

How Much Exercise Is Right for My Pregnant Dog?

Before your pet officially becomes a mom, and during those exciting first few weeks, she should stick to her usual exercise routine. Your dog’s age, breed, and size will play a big role in this decision. But when that belly starts to really show, it’s time to dial it back a bit. Taking short, frequent walks may be a better choice than long strolls with breaks in between. 

The Role of Your Yorkville, IL Vet

Before you think about breeding your dog, make sure to take her to the vet first! Undergoing a comprehensive exam is essential. Your furry friend will also need to stay up to date on her vaccinations. Your vet will look for any potential issues that could impact the pregnancy or delivery process. Don’t forget to bring your pet in for a visit during her pregnancy as well. If any issues arise, it might be a good idea to plan a C-section ahead of time.

Getting Ready for Puppies

As the big day draws near, keep an eye out for some unmistakable signs that your furry friend is getting ready to welcome her adorable puppies. Specifically, watch for additional enlargement of or fluid on the nipples. With certain pups, you might even catch a glimpse or feel the little ones wriggling about!  

Now’s the time to grab yourself a solid whelping box. This will provide a cozy and secure space for your dog to welcome her little ones. You can purchase these or get creative and whip up something of your own. A kiddie pool is a great option for this. Ensure that mama can easily come and go, while keeping the pups safely contained. This should be situated in a cozy, peaceful spot that’s free from drafts. 

Don’t forget to let your pet check out the box! 

Here are some basic supplies you’ll want to grab in preparation of the big day: 

• Newspaper or butcher paper for lining
• Trash totes
• Bathmats
• Fresh towels
• Thermometer 
• Bulb syringe 
• Heat lamp
• Sterile scissors and unwaxed floss (for cord cutting)
• Iodine

Check with your Yorkville, IL vet for more specific suggestions.

Helping Your Dog with the Birthing Process

As the big day draws near, your furry friend might start to lose her appetite. She might just begin crafting her very own cozy den. (You may want to gently encourage her to move towards the whelping box you’ve made or purchased). Additional indicators are panting and a decrease in rectal temperature.

When labor kicks in, contractions will begin. The puppies will arrive wrapped in their membranes. Typically, the mama takes care of this, but if she skips it, you’ll have to handle it on your own. Act fast: those tiny pups won’t be able to hold their breath for long! After you’ve rescued the puppy, give it a good rubdown with a clean towel. 

Typically, the mother will gnaw through the cord while she lovingly licks her puppies. If that’s not the case, you’ll have to trim it yourself. Secure the ends and apply iodine for sanitation. 

Check in with your Yorkville, IL vet for a deeper dive into what you can expect on the big day!

How Can You Tell If Something Is Off?

Your pet should deliver her puppies in a smooth rhythm, but don’t be surprised if there are some breaks in between. Make sure to keep her hydrated during this time. She may also need to take a little bathroom break. Get ready, because she might just surprise you with a puppy delivery outside! 

Typically, you can expect labor to take around an hour for each puppy. Here’s why knowing the expected number of puppies in advance is so important. Don’t forget to count the placentas! 

Reach out to your Yorkville, IL vet if: 

• It’s been over two hours since the arrivals and not all the puppies have made their grand entrance.
• Your dog’s rectal temperature has been on the decline for over 24 hours now, yet labor hasn’t kicked in just yet.
• Your dog seems to be in a lot of discomfort.
• One or more of the puppies seem to be having trouble breathing.
• If your dog is experiencing strong contractions for more than an hour without delivering any puppies.
• Trembling, collapsing, or shivering.
• If your dog produces dark green or bloody liquid before the first puppy arrives
• The puppies aren’t nursing.
• You’ve got more puppies than placentas.

Don’t forget to chat with your vet regularly throughout your pet’s pregnancy journey. We’re always thrilled to lend a hand!

Schedule an Appointment at Our Yorkville, IL Pet Hospital!

Have questions or concerns about your pregnant pup? Curious about our reproductive services for dogs? Get in touch with us, your friendly Yorkville, IL animal clinic, today!