Is Your Dog Pregnant? Signs to Look Out For

The thought of your furry friend welcoming puppies can be exciting. But dog pregnancy comes with a fair share of worry for many pet owners.

First, you cannot certainly be sure of the pregnancy because the signs can be very subtle, and dog owners often fail to recognize them. Also, you may mistake the pregnancy signs for other health issues in your dog.

Fortunately, you can look out for some common signs that suggest that your dog may be pregnant. If you notice any of the following, take your pup to the vet for confirmation and advice.

Behavioral Changes

Most dogs become more affectionate and clingier than usual, while others may be aloof and moody. The dog may become more irritable and not want anyone to bother them.

However, behavioral changes in dogs may indicate more severe issues such as trauma, neurological issues, or pain. So, don't automatically assume that your dog is pregnant if the pet starts to isolate itself or if your furry friend wants you closer than before.

You may also notice that your dog is demonstrating a nesting urge. She may start to collect toys, blankets, and other soft items in one area. This sign is an instinctive behavior that will prepare her for the arrival of puppies.

Weight Gain

Weight gain is one of the most obvious signs of pregnancy. As the puppies grow inside the uterus, your dog will start to gain weight steadily.

The abdomen may grow, but this sign appears late in the pregnancy. The weight gain should start after a few weeks of getting pregnant and may increase as the pregnancy progresses.

Enlarged or Discolored Nipples

If your dog's nipples start to become reddish, that may signify an increase in blood flow, a common sign during pregnancy.



The nipples may also enlarge. This sign appears early in pregnancy and will be visible before other signs take effect. And later, through the pregnancy, the nipples may start to produce milk.

Less Interest in Exercise

Dogs are busy creatures and love to exercise. During pregnancy, however, your pup's energy levels will likely decrease, and she may not be interested in doing the activities that she normally loves.

This change is normal since physical activity can stress their bodies during this crucial period. Your dog may sleep more than usual and appear tired even after a short walk. However, low energy levels may sometimes indicate other health issues, so consult your vet.

Appetite Changes

Your pet's appetite may increase or fluctuate depending on the pregnancy stage. For instance, your furry friend may lose her appetite during early pregnancy. During this period, your dog may vomit and will be choosy on the food.

However, in the late months, your dog may eat more than usual to meet the nutritional needs of her growing puppies. But these changes differ depending on the pet's hormonal level.

You can never know for sure that your dog is pregnant until you take a test to confirm your suspicions. So, take your dog to a reliable vet as soon as you notice any of the above changes. Your vet may perform palpation, hormone tests, or ultrasounds to identify the puppies.

The animal health specialist will advise you on how best to care for a pregnant dog. For example, you may need to adjust the dog's nutrition and activity levels and prepare a comfortable nesting space.

You can trust us at Baywood Animal Hospital for all your pup's needs. We are certified and experienced veterinarians who understand the importance of pet care. We will walk you through your dog's pregnancy journey to ensure a safe and healthy delivery. Contact us for a consultation.