Unlike humans, detecting pregnancy in a dog is not as practical as peeing on a stick or confirming a blood test. A veterinarian may be able to diagnose a pregnant dog within a month or so of conception by a physical examination or by x-ray or ultrasound around six weeks gestation, but since the gestation period of a dog is about nine weeks, this offers little to the anxious breeder.

There are some outward symptoms a pregnant dog may exhibit, but they generally do not surface until about four or five weeks. The most obvious symptom of a pregnant dog is weight gain. However, a pregnant dog may not gain any significant weight until a week or two before birth if there are only one or two puppies. Another obvious sign of a pregnant dog is enlarged mammary glands. Most pregnant dogs will display enlarged mammary glands between five and seven weeks.

Other signs a dog may be pregnant are behavioral symptoms. Initially, you may notice a decrease in appetite. Dogs may become restless and interact less with their people and may prefer seclusion. They often make natural attempts at “nesting,” evidence by the shredding of paper or digging at blankets and bedding in the last week or so. A pregnant dog can also become irritable, with minor personality changes in the last two to three weeks.

A pregnant dog requires good nutrition to develop healthy puppies. Veterinarians may recommend protein supplements or other additions to the dog’s diet and owners should be aware that a pregnant dog may have an increased appetite. Fluid intake is also important and thirst may increase, so be sure to provide fresh water at all times.

Some dogs also display signs of false pregnancy after coming off their heat cycle. The physical symptoms, such as enlarged abdomen and mammary glands do not surface, but psychological signs may be present. Some dogs adopt “babies” by carrying around and nesting with stuffed animals. However, do not allow a dog who displays signs of a false pregnancy to try stealing puppies from another litter.

If you are attempting to breed your dog, be aware of the signs she exhibits after breeding. Provide her with the proper care and attention, but remember nature mostly takes its course on its own. Be sure to provide a suitable whelping box for delivery and monitor your dog’s ability to care for her pups. All puppies should see a veterinarian for routine de-worming by 3 weeks of age and should be weaned between 3 and 4 weeks.

If you have a pregnant dog and are unfamiliar with delivery and aftercare, consult your veterinarian for information. If you have a pregnant dog, but had no intentions of breeding her, be responsible in her care and that of the puppies and then have your dog spayed as soon as possible.