Whether you have bred your dog intentionally, or she fell prey to an excited male dog in your neighborhood, chances are you will want her pregnancy confirmed. There are a variety of symptoms she will display from beginning to end, while methods such as a doggy ultrasound can answer your question immediately. No matter how you choose to determine the impending arrival of puppies, knowing about it is imperative, as it allows you to prepare for the big event.
Behavioral Changes
Behavioral changes are one of the first signs your female canine is expecting. She may lose her appetite and prefer to be left alone more often than not. Your once playful dog will usually lose interest in many of her favorite activities due to the hormones invading her body, helping her prepare for her growing babies.
You will know the big day is near when your dog begins her "nesting" period. This is when she begins wandering your home, looking for a suitable place to deliver her brood, preparing ahead of time for a comfortable, safe place to deliver.
Nutritional Changes
Approximately a month after you have noticed the first sign of your pet's pregnancy, her appetite will return. This natural change occurs so she is able to meet the nutritional needs of her puppies while maintaining her own nutritional needs. As a result of this, you will notice she is beginning to pack on the pounds; this is due to the growing fetuses in her womb along with the extra food she is taking in.
Physical Changes
In the beginning, your dog's nipples will begin to change; they may begin to swell and turn a darker color. This change is also due to her hormones.
As your dog nears her delivery date, her abdomen will balloon. How large she gets depends on the number of puppies she is carrying. At this point you may be able to see and feel the puppies moving in her womb, provided she lets you touch her belly. During this time, her nipples may begin leaking milk as well; this is in preparation for all those late-night feedings she has to look forward to.
Ultrasound Confirmation
If your dog has displayed some of these signs and you want a definite answer, take her to the vet. He can perform a noninvasive ultrasound, which will allow you to hear the fetal heartbeats. These can be heard about 25 days after conception has taken place. It should be noted though that an ultrasound will not confirm how many fetuses there are.
