Dog Pregnancy and Whelping: The Ultimate Complete Guide for Breeders and Pet Owners

Understanding the Natural Reproductive Cycle of Dogs

Female dogs (bitches) have a unique reproductive physiology compared to many other mammals. They generally come into estrus, or “heat,” twice per year, though small breeds may cycle more often and large breeds less frequently. Each estrus period lasts about 2–3 weeks, during which ovulation typically occurs between day 11 and day 14.During estrus, hormonal changes—particularly in progesterone and luteinizing hormone (LH)—dictate when ovulation happens and therefore when breeding is most likely to result in pregnancy. Proper breeding management depends on pinpointing this window, often through blood progesterone tests or vaginal cytology performed by veterinarians.

How Long Does a Dog’s Pregnancy Last?

A dog’s gestation period averages 63 days from ovulation, but can range 58–72 days from mating, since sperm can live up to a week in the reproductive tract. For accurate planning, veterinarians count from the ovulation date determined by progesterone or LH testing. This timing allows for precise estimation of whelping (delivery) and for safe scheduling of radiographs and potential cesarean sections if needed.

Breed Differences in Pregnancy and Birth

Each breed presents different reproductive characteristics.

• Large breeds (e.g., Labrador, German Shepherd) often produce 6–10 puppies.

• Toy breeds (e.g., Chihuahua, Pomeranian) average 2–4 puppies.

• Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, French Bulldogs) commonly require C-sections due to head size and pelvic anatomy.

Breed also influences gestation complications, metabolic rate, milk production, and risk of dystocia (difficult birth). For these reasons, pre-breeding veterinary evaluation is essential.

How to Confirm Pregnancy in a Dog

There are several diagnostic tools available:

Test	Best Timing	Purpose
Palpation	Days 21–28	Detects uterine enlargements resembling a “string of pearls.”
Ultrasound	Days 25–35	Confirms pregnancy, detects heartbeats, estimates viability.
Relaxin Blood Test	Days 30–35	Identifies the pregnancy-specific hormone relaxin.
Radiographs (X-rays)	≥ Day 55	Determines number of puppies accurately after bones mineralize.

Ultrasound can also assess fetal heart rate. Normal fetal heart rate ranges from 200–250 bpm; persistent readings below 200 bpm indicate fetal distress and warrant veterinary attention.

Physical and Behavioral Signs of Pregnancy

Early signs include mild appetite loss, lethargy, nipple enlargement, and subtle abdominal thickening. By week 5, the abdomen becomes noticeably rounded, and by week 7, mammary glands enlarge, occasionally leaking small amounts of colostrum. Behaviorally, many females become quieter, affectionate, or nest-oriented as hormones shift.

Nutritional Management During Pregnancy

Nutrition profoundly affects the health of both mother and pups.

• During the first 5–6 weeks, continue the normal maintenance diet.

• Switch to a high-quality growth or all-life-stages formula for the final 3 weeks.

• Avoid overfeeding early in pregnancy; excess fat can cause whelping difficulties.

• Provide fresh water at all times and maintain ideal body condition.

Do NOT supplement calcium during pregnancy.Prenatal calcium interferes with the body’s parathyroid regulation, increasing the risk of eclampsia (milk fever) after whelping. Only supplement postpartum if prescribed by a vet.

Exercise and Physical Care

Moderate daily walks are encouraged. Exercise helps maintain muscle tone, which can ease delivery. Strenuous activities, long runs, or jumping should be limited in the last 3 weeks. Grooming, nail trimming, and dental hygiene should continue regularly to prevent discomfort during nursing.

Parasite Control and Vaccination

Pregnant dogs should remain on vet-approved parasite preventives safe for pregnancy. To minimize Toxocara canis transmission, many vets recommend daily fenbendazole from day 40 to day 2 postpartum.Puppies begin deworming at 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks of age.Vaccination should ideally be done before breeding. Live vaccines are avoided during pregnancy. Core vaccines for puppies start at 6–8 weeks, repeated every 2–4 weeks until at least 16 weeks.

Preparing for Whelping

A calm, hygienic environment reduces stress for both dam and puppies.

• Whelping Box: Spacious, low-entry box with pig rails and washable bedding.

• Temperature: Keep ambient temperature 29–32°C (85–90°F) for neonates.

• Lighting: Dim, steady lighting encourages relaxation.

• Equipment checklist:

  • Digital thermometer

  • Clean towels and disposable pads

  • Sterile scissors and clamps or dental floss

  • 2% tincture of iodine for cord tips

  • Bulb syringe for mucus removal

  • Puppy scale

  • Notebook/timer

  • Vet and emergency contacts

Introduce the dam to this space in the final two weeks so she feels safe there.

Recognizing the Signs of Labor

As whelping nears:

• Rectal temperature drops to 98–99°F (36.7–37.2°C) within 24 hours.

• Restlessness, panting, or nesting appear.

• Appetite often decreases.

• Clear or slightly green vaginal discharge may appear shortly before the first puppy.

If the temperature drop occurs but no labor within 24 hours, call your vet.

Stages of Labor and What’s Normal

Stage I – Cervical dilation (12–24 hours):The bitch may pant, tremble, and dig. No visible abdominal contractions yet.

Stage II – Delivery of puppies:Active abdominal contractions begin. Puppies are born typically every 30–60 minutes. Up to 2 hours between pups can be normal if the dam rests comfortably.If contractions are strong for 30–60 minutes with no puppy, contact a vet.Each pup should be followed by a placenta; dark green discharge without a puppy is abnormal unless a pup appears immediately after.

Stage III – Expulsion of placentas:All placentas should pass. It’s not necessary for the dam to eat them; ingestion can cause diarrhea or vomiting.

Owner’s Role During Delivery

Observe quietly, keeping noise and light minimal. If the mother fails to tear the membranes or lick the puppy, step in:

1. Tear open the membrane.

2. Wipe nose and mouth.

3. Vigorously towel-rub until breathing begins.

4. If cord bleeds, tie 2–3 cm from the abdomen and cut the distal end.

5. Dab stump with iodine.

6. Keep the puppy warm until it can nurse.

Never swing puppies; this outdated technique can cause fatal injuries.

Red-Flag Situations Requiring Veterinary Help

Sign	Likely Problem
Strong contractions >30–60 min with no puppy	Dystocia
>2 hours between puppies	Uterine inertia or obstruction
Green/black discharge with no puppy	Premature placental separation
Rectal temp drop >24 h ago, no labor	Hormonal failure or fetal death
Excessive bleeding, foul odor	Metritis
Visible stuck puppy	Vaginal or pelvic obstruction
Severe pain, tremors, or collapse	Eclampsia or shock

Immediate veterinary attention can save both dam and litter.

Postpartum Care for the Mother

After delivery, the dam should rest in a clean, quiet area.

• Lochia: Normal dark-red discharge lasting up to 3 weeks.

• Temperature: Slight elevation is normal for 24 hours; prolonged fever is not.

• Mammary glands: Check daily for heat, pain, or discoloration (mastitis).

• Nutrition: High-calorie growth diet ad libitum during lactation.

• Hydration: Provide ample fresh water.

Eclampsia (milk fever) most often occurs 2–5 weeks postpartum. Signs: restlessness, stiff gait, tremors, fever, and seizures. It’s a life-threatening emergency that requires IV calcium therapy.

Caring for the Newborn Puppies

Puppies are born blind, deaf, and unable to regulate body temperature.

• Temperature: Maintain 85–90°F for days 1–4, reduce gradually to 72°F by week 4.

• Weight gain: Expect 5–10% increase daily; double birth weight by one week.

• Umbilical stump: Keep clean and dry; disinfect once with iodine.

• Eyes open: Around 10–14 days.

• Ears open: Around day 14–17.

Weak, cold, or non-nursing puppies need prompt veterinary assessment.

Weaning and Puppy Nutrition

At 3–4 weeks, introduce gruel made of soaked puppy food and warm water. By 7–8 weeks, puppies should eat dry puppy food independently.Avoid cow’s milk, which causes diarrhea. Provide shallow water dishes once pups are mobile.

Socialization and Puppy Development

Between 3 and 13 weeks lies the critical socialization window. Positive exposure to people, gentle handling, and mild environmental sounds prevent fear later in life.Puppies should remain with their mother and littermates until at least 8 weeks old to learn bite inhibition and social cues.

Common Complications During and After Birth

Condition	Main Signs	Action
Eclampsia	Tremors, restlessness, seizures	Emergency IV calcium
Metritis	Fever, foul discharge	Veterinary antibiotics
Mastitis	Hot, painful glands	Vet care, cold compresses
Subinvolution (SIPS)	Persistent bloody discharge 6–8+ weeks	Hormonal/medical treatment
Dystocia	Prolonged labor	Veterinary or surgical intervention

Week-by-Week Pregnancy Timeline

Week	Key Events	Owner’s Tasks
1–3	Fertilization and implantation	Maintain routine, avoid stress
4–5	Abdomen rounds, ultrasound possible	Confirm pregnancy
6–7	Rapid fetal growth	Increase food gradually
8	Mammary enlargement, nesting	Prepare whelping box
9	Temp drop, restlessness	Monitor closely, contact vet if overdue

Post-Weaning Care and Rehoming - dog pregnancy and whelping

After weaning, pups continue rapid growth until 12 weeks. Continue monthly deworming and vaccinations. New owners should receive a written health record and feeding schedule. Ethical breeders ensure pups are microchipped and vet-checked before adoption.

How long does dog pregnancy last, and how is it calculated?A dog’s gestation period averages 63 days from ovulation, not from mating. Because sperm can live up to 7 days in the reproductive tract, gestation from mating may vary between 58 and 72 days. Tracking ovulation via progesterone testing provides the most accurate due date.

How soon can pregnancy be confirmed in a dog?Pregnancy can be detected by palpation at day 21–28, by ultrasound at day 25–35, or by a relaxin hormone blood test around day 30–35. Radiographs are best done after day 55 to count puppies accurately.

What are the earliest signs of pregnancy?Mild appetite changes, nipple enlargement, and subtle behavioral shifts may appear by the third week. By week 5, the abdomen enlarges, and mammary glands become noticeable. Some females become more affectionate or quiet.

Can dogs have morning sickness?Yes. Around the third to fourth week, some pregnant dogs show mild nausea or reduced appetite. This usually resolves within a few days and doesn’t require treatment unless severe vomiting or dehydration occurs.

How many puppies can a dog have?Litter size depends on breed, age, and health. Large breeds may have 8–12 puppies, while small breeds might have 1–4. The average is 5–6 puppies per litter.

What diet should I feed during pregnancy?Feed a high-quality growth or all-life-stages formula. Avoid raw diets, table scraps, or supplements. Increase calories only in the last 3 weeks of pregnancy, then continue increased feeding during lactation.

Is calcium supplementation recommended?No. Giving calcium during pregnancy disrupts the body’s natural regulation and can cause postpartum eclampsia (milk fever). Calcium, if needed, is given after whelping under veterinary supervision.

How much exercise is safe for a pregnant dog?Gentle walks and light play are beneficial. Avoid strenuous activity, jumping, or rough play, especially during the last trimester. Proper muscle tone helps with whelping, but exhaustion must be avoided.

Can my pregnant dog be bathed or groomed?Yes. Gentle grooming and baths with mild shampoo are safe. Trim nails before the due date so they won’t scratch puppies during nursing. Avoid stress and keep her warm afterward.

When should I set up the whelping area?Prepare the whelping box at least 1–2 weeks before the due date. Let your dog explore and rest in it to build comfort. Use washable bedding and ensure warmth (around 29–32°C / 85–90°F for newborns).

How can I tell that labor is approaching?Rectal temperature drops to 98–99°F (36.7–37.2°C) about 8–24 hours before delivery. Other signs include restlessness, nesting, panting, or shivering. Appetite usually decreases the day before birth.

How long does each stage of labor last?Stage I (cervical dilation) lasts 12–24 hours. Stage II (puppy delivery) usually produces one puppy every 30–60 minutes. Stage III (placenta expulsion) occurs after each puppy or at the end.

What should I do if labor stops or stalls?If your dog strains for 30–60 minutes without delivering or there’s more than 2 hours between puppies, contact your vet immediately. Delay could indicate dystocia (difficult labor).

What if I see green or black discharge but no puppy appears?Green or black discharge (uteroverdin) suggests placental separation. A puppy should follow quickly. If not, treat it as an emergency—contact your vet at once.

Should I help the mother remove the membrane from the puppy?Most mothers do this instinctively. If she doesn’t within seconds, tear open the membrane, wipe the puppy’s face, and rub it briskly with a towel to stimulate breathing.

Can I cut the umbilical cord myself?Yes, if necessary. Tie dental floss or sterile string 2–3 cm from the puppy’s belly, cut beyond the tie, and dab the stump with 2% iodine. Do not pull or tear it by hand.

How often should puppies nurse?Newborns should nurse every 2 hours during the first week. Strong, rhythmic suckling shows good health. Weak, cold, or quiet puppies should be warmed and checked by a vet immediately.

What temperature should newborn puppies be kept at?Maintain ambient temperature of 85–90°F (29–32°C) for the first 4 days, gradually lowering to 80°F by 10 days and 72°F by 4 weeks. Hypothermia is a common cause of early puppy death.

When will puppies open their eyes and ears?Eyes open around 10–14 days, ears by 14–17 days. Both senses mature gradually. If eyes remain sealed after 16 days, contact your vet.

How can I monitor puppy growth?Weigh each puppy daily for the first 2 weeks. Expect 5–10% weight gain per day and doubling of birth weight by day 7–10. Failure to gain weight signals a problem.

How long should postpartum discharge last?Normal discharge (lochia) is dark green to reddish-brown and odorless, lasting up to 3 weeks. Foul smell, pus, or lethargy in the mother indicate metritis, which requires veterinary treatment.

What is eclampsia (milk fever), and when does it occur?Eclampsia appears 2–5 weeks after whelping, especially in small breeds. Signs include anxiety, tremors, stiff gait, and seizures. It’s an emergency requiring IV calcium from a vet.

When should puppies be weaned?Start offering gruel (puppy food mixed with water) at 3–4 weeks. Gradually transition to solid puppy food by 7–8 weeks. Provide water once puppies move around freely.

When can puppies go to their new homes?Puppies should stay with their mother and littermates until at least 8 weeks old. This period is critical for learning bite inhibition, social behavior, and emotional stability.

What warning signs require immediate veterinary help during or after birth?Call a vet if you notice:

• Strong contractions for 30–60 minutes without a puppy

• More than 2 hours between puppies

• Green/black discharge without a puppy

• Excessive bleeding or foul odor

• Fever, weakness, or tremors in the mother

• Puppies failing to breathe or nurse normally

Early intervention often saves both mother and pups.

Keywords

dog pregnancy, whelping in dogs, pregnant dog care, signs of dog labor, dog birth complications

Sources

• Merck Veterinary Manual – Canine Reproduction and Whelping

• American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) – Pregnancy and Neonatal Care in Dogs

• World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) – Reproduction Guidelines

• European Scientific Counsel Companion Animal Parasites (ESCCAP) – Perinatal Parasite Control

• Mersin Vetlife Veterinary Clinic – Haritada Aç: https://share.google/jgNW7TpQVLQ3NeUf2