If you're wondering, "How long are dogs pregnant?" read on to learn about the different timeframes and length of pregnancy in dogs.
A normal dog gestation period (or pregnancy) is 63 to 65 days, regardless of the size or breed of the dog. For example, a Chihuahua is pregnant for the same amount of time as a Rottweiler. Though how long dogs are pregnant is shorter than humans, like humans, dogs also have three trimesters. Each one lasts about 21 days. If you think or know your dog has been bred, write down the date so that your veterinarian can have confidence in your dog's due date. Here's what you can expect when your dog is expecting.
The First Trimester
During the first trimester of your dog's gestation period, her appearance won't usually change, aside from gaining a small amount of weight.
A few dogs may develop signs of morning sickness during week three or four, but it's usually not as severe as in humans, and you may not notice anything at all. If your dog throws up once or twice, seems tired and has less of an appetite during this time, don't worry. Offer her a few small meals during the day to ease nausea. If you're worried about your dog, or if her nausea and lack of appetite continue for more than a few days, consult your veterinarian.
Even if your dog seems fine, you should make an appointment with your vet if you think your dog is pregnant. Schedule a prenatal checkup during the first trimester and let your veterinarian know the date that your dog was bred. This is a great chance to ask your vet questions, including what you should feed a pregnant dog. It's best to give your dog a complete and balanced food that's formulated for pregnant or nursing dogs. Your vet may also test for parasites or recommend other tests at this time, including checking hormone levels and/or administering an ultrasound of the fetuses. The ultrasound is a safe and noninvasive way to evaluate the puppies' health.
The Second Trimester
When do you start noticing changes in your pregnant dog's appearance? The second trimester may be when your dog actually starts to look pregnant and gain weight. Her nipples along the mammary chain (the glands along the left or right side of her body) will start to enlarge and may darken in preparation for all the milk they'll need to deliver to the puppies. Not much else happens during the second trimester: Your dog can continue her normal exercise and routine.
Tasty Tips
The Third Trimester
The beginning of the third trimester (around day 45) is when you can start to see the puppies on an X-ray (radiograph). Your vet will be able to see how many puppies your dog is carrying, and they'll also ensure that the puppies' heads will pass safely through the birth canal. This is mostly a concern with brachycephalic dog breeds, who may have birth canals that are too narrow to pass big puppy heads. If your vet determines that the puppies are too big to pass safely through the birth canal, then your dog will need to have a cesarean section, or C-section, to remove the puppies when she's done gestating.
Your dog's pregnant belly will also become larger during the third trimester, and it may sway gently back and forth beneath her as she walks. Her mammary chain will swell, and she may leak milk from her nipples. Your dog will likely have a bigger appetite than usual, one that then slows down as she gets closer to delivery. And you may feel and see the puppies moving during the last two weeks of pregnancy.
As your dog's time approaches, she'll likely start looking for and preparing her birthing nest. This can be as simple as a cardboard box or a dog bed with sides that are high enough to keep the puppies inside when mom needs to leave for a break. She may also drag blankets into her nest and arrange them just so. Let her do what she needs to do — just make sure the birthing and nesting area is in a temperature-controlled environment between 85 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit for the first few days.
Make sure to have your vet on speed dial during the last few weeks of pregnancy, just in case anything goes wrong, or if you need help or advice. If your dog doesn't go into labor on the 65-day due date, or if she shows signs of dystocia (difficulty giving birth), then call your vet immediately.
Most of the time, momma dogs instinctively know how to be pregnant, deliver puppies, nurse them and care for them until weaning. Sometimes, however, dogs need our help, which is why knowing how long dogs are pregnant and what to expect can help ensure your dog's pregnancy is safe and joyous.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Large Breed Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light with Chicken Meal & Barley Dog Food
18% lower calories vs. Science Diet Adult
null Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Hearty Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew Dog Food
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Chicken & Zucchini Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Beef Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Beef recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Small & Mini Chicken Meal & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Cuisine Roasted Chicken, Carrots & Spinach Stew Dog Food
Delicious roasted chicken paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult Turkey & Barley Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a large bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Beef & Zucchini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Large Breed Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition. Delicious food in a large bite size.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to support mobility and muscle mass for older dogs
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Hearty Vegetables and Tuna Stew Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Beef & Barley Entrée
Beef & Barley Entrée with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small & Mini with Chicken Meal & Barley Dog Food
Tailored nutrition for less active adult Small & Mini dogs requiring a low calorie food to help maintain a healthy weight & lifestyle. Specially made with nibble size kibble.
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the superior nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Related articles
Are Dogs Really Color Blind?
Are you wondering if dogs really are color blind? Get the scoop on which colors your dog can actually see and which ones should catch his attention.
Choosing the Best Dog Food
Learn what to look for when choosing the best dog food for your pup. Healthy ingredients, your dog's age & his physical condition are important factors.
Does My Dog Have a Bruise?
If you've noticed an odd bump in your dog's skin, you may wonder if it's a bruise or something more serious. Learn what could be causing this type of issue.
Managing Your Male Puppy Around In-Season Females
Learn how to manage your male puppy around female dogs in season, as you will begin to notice changes in your puppy.
Can My Dog Eat Spicy Food?
Find out if you can feed your dog spicy food or add some spicy flavor to his dog food, and any health implications of doing so.
Why Is My Dog Shaking? 6 Common Causes for the Shivers
If you're noticed your dog shaking and shivering, you're probably wondering if there is something wrong. Learn common reasons why and what you can do.
Overcoming Obesity in Small Dogs
Learn how to properly feed and treat your little or small breed dog to keep their weight under control to avoid any weight-related health issues.
Dogs With Joint Problems Don't Have to Remain in Pain
Learn the common signs that a dog is having joint problems, how joint issues occur & why they can so painful for him, as well as how they can be treated.
Tapeworms in Dogs: How Dogs Get Them & Getting Rid of Them
Learn how common tapeworms in a dog are, how to spot the signs of tapeworms on your dog (or in their poop), and tips about prevention & treatment.
Treating a Torn ACL/CCL in Dogs: TPLO Surgery & More
Learn about torn CCL injuries in dogs (equivalent to a torn ACL in humans), including risk factors, how they are diagnosed and how TPLO surgery can help.
Are Grapes & Raisins Bad for Dogs?
Learn why grapes & raisins are poisonous for dogs, how to manage the situation if they've eaten them, symptoms to watch for, and when to go to the vet.
Your Puppy's First 3 Months At Home: What to Expect
Learn how to provide your puppy the care he needs in his first 3 months to grow up stong, healthy, and social.
Can Dogs Eat Soy?
Learn whether soy is a safe ingredient in dog foods, if there are any health benefits or concerns, as well as if they can have products like soy sauce.
How to Recognize and Ease Stress in Dogs
Learn the physical signs that your dog is stressed, such as changes in appetite or increased urination, common causes of stress and tips for stress relief.
Treating Your Dog with and without Food
Learn how to treat your dog without compromising its health. Get tips on how to spoil your pup without too much snacking on dog treats.
Is My Dog Really Watching TV?
Discover if your dog is actually interested in watching TV, how to pick something you'll both like and the science behind some dogs' TV preferences.
Change a Bored Dog into a Playful Dog with These 6 Games
Are you worried you may have a bored dog? Learn about five common signs of boredom in dogs and games you can play to help beat the bored blues.
Clipping Dog Nails for Puppy Pedicures
Learn the basics for safely trimming your dog's nails at home, including tools you'll need and the technique for making trimming painless and easy.
Can Dogs Eat Turkey?
Is turkey meat safe for dogs? Learn whether it's OK to feed your dog turkey and important info about certain spices, turkey skin & turkey bones.
Dog Boops! Does Your Dog Actually Enjoy Them?
Dog boops are all the craze on social media, but the booping nose gesture isn't just cute, it's also a great way to connect with your dog. Learn more...
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.