Our warmer Minnesota weather means your dog has more playtime outdoors, and if unsupervised can lead to Mother Nature being introduced to your non-spayed or neutered dog. DDG has come up with a few methods of what to look for for dog pregnancy signs.
While we love all of our pets, it’s important to first mention that if you are concerned about your dog having a litter of pups and then what to do with them, consider having your female dog spayed.
Dog Pregnancy Signs and What To Look Out For
One of the best ways to determining if your dog is pregnant is of course to take her to the veterinarian. What the doctor or staff member will do is to touch the dog’s abdomen to feel for uterine swelling; and will feel for firm lumps.
Another route is to have x-rays done, but this can be pricey. Some vets do call for it but later in gestation. While it’s interesting to see the pups and to get an idea of how many, this can be a very pricey option. As well, some vets will prefer to put the dog under anesthesia to limit movement.
For those of us at home, who don’t feel the need to involve a vet, just yet; here are 4 simple tell-tale dog pregnancy signs:
- Watch for nipple color change in your dog Her nipples may appear slightly swollen and pinker than normal. Develops 2 to 3 weeks after conception.
- After about 4 to 5 weeks her tummy and waist will begin to fill out.
- You may notice mood changes in your dog. She might be quieter than usual as she will have hormone level changes, also keep in mind that all dogs (like humans) are different and each pregnancy is different. Your dog may be quieter, more affectionate, clingy or the totla reverse where she wants to be left alone.
- Check her gums. If they are rosy red and normal, she may not be pregnant. But if her gums are white(ish) it can be due to the blood is forming where the fetus’ are attaching.
NOTE: Keep kids and small children away from the mom for a bit. While children love to see and play with puppies, it’s best to wait. As well, a dog may not want their pups touched by human hands just yet – she may growl or even bite to protect her young. Even if you think you know your dog, give her the privacy she deserves.
