You might be a dog lover; you might be a dog breeder. Your intense love for puppies may let your matured bitch to breed, to produce its own offsprings. If you still have no idea on your bitch’s fertility time and if you want to find it and let your bitch to have a litter of puppies, here is how you recognize dog pregnancy, and how to look after her during pregnancy and her post-pregnancy.
Signs and Symptoms of Bitch’s Pregnancy
Identifying dog pregnancy is a sensitive and overwhelming case because it fills you with the happiness of welcoming new members to your family. Your bitch might have conceived. Yet, you have to identify whether your bitch is pregnant. You may observe many changes in their physical aspects as well as in their behavior. A pregnant bitch often likes to have an increased appetite. They gradually gain weight and an enlarged abdomen. Her nipples may become more prominent and darker due to increased blood flow, and she might exhibit nesting behaviors as she prepares for her puppies. It’s also common for pregnant dogs to experience a slight increase in body temperature.
Moreover, bitches encounter behavioral changes which is also a symptom of pregnancy. Your bitch might become more affectionate, seeking extra attention and comfort. Conversely, some bitches may prefer solitude and exhibit signs of lethargy or reduced activity. These behavioral shifts are due to hormonal changes and the natural instinct to prepare for motherhood witnessed by a bitch.
Stages of Bitch’s Pregnancy

During the first three weeks, the fertilized eggs travel to the uterine horns, where they begin to develop into embryos. At this stage, your dog might not show noticeable signs of pregnancy. Mild symptoms like lethargy and decreased appetite might appear.
From the fourth to the sixth week, the embryos develop into fetuses. This period is marked by significant physical changes, including weight gain and an enlarged abdomen by the bitch. You might notice her nipples becoming more pronounced, and she may start to exhibit nesting behaviors.
In the final stage, the fetuses continue to grow, and your bitch’s abdomen will become noticeably larger. She may start to produce colostrum, a nutrient-rich pre-milk, in preparation for nursing. It’s crucial to provide a comfortable and quiet space for her as she prepares for labor.
Duration of Bitch’s Pregnancy and Labor
Dog pregnancies typically last between 58 to 68 days, with an average of around 63 days. This period is relatively short compared to human pregnancies, making it essential to monitor your bitch closely for any signs of labor as the due date approaches.
As labor approaches, your dog will exhibit nesting behaviors, such as searching for a quiet, comfortable place to give birth. You may provide your bitch with a whelping box lined with clean, soft bedding that can help her feel secure and ready for delivery.
Her signs of impending labor include restlessness, panting, and a drop in body temperature. Your bitch may also refuse food and become clingier or withdrawn. It’s crucial to keep an eye on these signs and be prepared to assist her if necessary.
Labor in dogs occurs in three stages. The first stage involves uterine contractions and can last up to 24 hours. During the second stage, the puppies are born, usually within 20-60 minutes apart. The third stage involves the expulsion of the placentas. It’s important to monitor the process and contact a veterinarian if any complications arise to get rid of the risk on your bitch’s life.
Provide Postpartum Care for your bitch

Your bitch may complete delivery in 20 – 60 minutes. As soon as your bitch finishes her delivery, you have to ensure that all puppies are breathing and nursing properly. You may clean and dry the puppies and the mother and provide fresh bedding. You may monitor the mother for any signs of distress or health issues, such as excessive bleeding or lack of appetite. Additionally, you may continue to provide a warm, clean environment for the mother and her puppies. You must ensure that the puppies are nursing frequently and gaining weight. You should schedule a veterinary check-up to confirm the health of both the mother and her litter to prevent future risks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, you have to understand and support a pregnant bitch through her journey to motherhood. She requires vigilance and care. You should be concerned about her nutrition and health during pregnancy. You may consult your veterinarian or visit reputable pet health websites to accumulate more information on the great milestone that your bitch passes in her life. You may refer to more details by surfing through the sites below.