Signs a Dog is Pregnant
What to Look For
If you’re a dog owner, it’s important to know the signs of pregnancy in your pet. Not only is it a great way to monitor the health and wellbeing of your pup, but it might also give you the heads up that you’re about to become a proud parent of a litter of puppies!
Here are some of the major signs that your dog might be pregnant.
Changes in Appetite
When a dog is expecting puppies, she may have an increased appetite. This is especially true in the last trimester when the puppies are growing quickly. If you notice your dog eating more than usual, it could be a sign that she’s pregnant.
Weight Gain
If you’re feeding your dog more food due to an increased appetite, you may start to notice a bit of weight gain in your pup. This is normal and can be a sign of pregnancy.
Nesting
As the due date approaches, you may find your dog is starting to “nest”. She may start to dig, pull bedding, and arrange her sleeping area. This is a normal behavior for pregnant dogs and is a sign that labor is approaching.
Decreased Activity
As your dog’s pregnancy progresses, she may become less active. This is due to the puppies taking up more room in the abdomen and the increased weight of the puppies. If you notice your dog is becoming less active, it could be a sign of pregnancy.
Changes in Temperature
A dog’s temperature can drop slightly in the last week of pregnancy. This is a sign that labor is approaching. If you take your dog’s temperature and it’s lower than normal, it could mean she is pregnant.
Increased Licking
An increase in licking of the abdomen is a sign that your dog may be pregnant. This is due to the hormones that are released during pregnancy. If you notice your dog licking her stomach more than usual, it could be a sign that she is expecting.
A Trip to the Vet
If you notice any of these signs in your pup, it’s a good idea to take her to the vet. Your vet can confirm the pregnancy and give you advice on how to care for your expectant dog.
Conclusion
Knowing the signs of pregnancy in your dog is a great way to keep her healthy and happy. Keep an eye out for changes in appetite, weight gain, nesting behavior, decreased activity, temperature changes, and increased licking of the abdomen. If you notice any of these signs in your pup, it’s time for a trip to the vet.