Dog Pregnancy Calculator
Calculate your dog’s due date and track pregnancy week by week
Quick Breed Examples
Pregnancy Timeline
Week-by-Week Development
Understanding Canine Pregnancy
Canine pregnancy typically lasts between 58-68 days, with an average of 63 days from conception. Understanding the gestation period and developmental stages is crucial for proper care and preparation.
Key Gestation Periods by Breed Size:
Small Breeds: 58-63 days (often shorter due to smaller litter sizes)
Medium Breeds: 60-65 days (most common duration)
Large Breeds: 62-67 days (may carry longer with larger litters)
Giant Breeds: 63-68 days (longest gestation periods)
Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs:
- Week 3-4: Decreased appetite, morning sickness, nipple enlargement
- Week 5-6: Weight gain, abdominal enlargement, behavioral changes
- Week 7-8: Visible puppy movement, nesting behavior, milk production
- Week 9: Drop in body temperature, restlessness, labor signs
Canine Gestation Timeline
Understanding the week-by-week development helps you provide appropriate care throughout your dog’s pregnancy.
Breed-Specific Considerations
Different dog breeds have unique pregnancy characteristics that affect gestation length and care requirements.
| Breed Size | Average Gestation | Typical Litter Size | Special Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small/Toy Breeds | 58-63 days | 1-4 puppies | Higher risk of complications, may require C-section |
| Medium Breeds | 60-65 days | 4-8 puppies | Most straightforward pregnancies |
| Large Breeds | 62-67 days | 6-10 puppies | Watch for nutritional demands |
| Giant Breeds | 63-68 days | 8-12+ puppies | Extended recovery period needed |
Veterinary Care Timeline:
| Timing | Veterinary Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Day 25-35 | Ultrasound | Confirm pregnancy, estimate litter size |
| Day 45-55 | X-ray | Accurate puppy count, check positioning |
| Day 58+ | Daily monitoring | Watch for labor signs, temperature drops |
| Day 65+ | Veterinary consult | If no labor signs, assess need for induction |
Frequently Asked Questions
Dog pregnancy calculators provide estimates based on average gestation periods. Accuracy depends on knowing the exact mating date and considering breed-specific variations. For precise timing, consult with your veterinarian who can perform ultrasounds and physical examinations.
Yes, false pregnancies (pseudopregnancy) are common in dogs. They can show many pregnancy signs including weight gain, nesting behavior, and even milk production without actually being pregnant. Veterinary confirmation through ultrasound or blood tests is recommended.
Schedule a veterinary visit 3-4 weeks after mating for pregnancy confirmation. Follow-up visits at 6-7 weeks for monitoring and 1-2 weeks before due date for final assessment. Emergency visits are needed for bleeding, prolonged labor, or signs of distress.
Labor signs include nesting behavior, restlessness, panting, loss of appetite, and a drop in body temperature (below 100°F). Active labor involves visible contractions and straining. Stage 1 labor can last 6-12 hours before puppies are delivered.
Switch to high-quality puppy food starting week 5-6 of pregnancy. Increase food quantity gradually, reaching 25-50% more than normal by late pregnancy. Provide multiple small meals daily and ensure constant access to fresh water. Consult your vet for specific nutritional recommendations.