How to Tell If Your Dog Is Pregnant

Unlike human beings, pregnancy in dogs can be difficult to detect. A responsible pet owner will want to know the signs and symptoms of pregnancy as soon as possible, to ensure proper health care. The most accurate way to know if your dog is going to have puppies is to take a trip to the veterinarian. A simple blood test and x-ray will give you your answer. But, if your female dog is not spayed, and you suspect that she may be pregnant, there are some signs and symptoms that you can look for on your own. The following steps will explain how to tell if your dog is pregnant.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A female dog that is not spayed
• The ability to observe physical and psychological changes in your dog

1. Pay close attention to your dog's eating habits. If she has a decreased appetite, or not showing much of an interest in her favorite chow, this could be a sign of morning sickness. Female dogs have this just like humans!

2. Check for vaginal discharge, a common sign of pregnancy.

3. Notice if your dog has enlarged teats. A female dog's nipples will begin to become engorged, in preparation for nursing her pups.

4. Look for behavior changes in your dog that are out of the ordinary. If she is usually active, and appears to be unusually tired, she may be pregnant.

5. Check your dog's stomach. It may appear to be enlarged, or look swollen. This is a symptom that will occur midway through the pregnancy. You may even be able to gently feel for the puppies, as well.

6. Look for signs of 'nesting'. This is your dog's way of getting ready to the birth and aftercare of the puppies. She may scratch at the floor or the blankets, as if to fluff them. Never appearing to be comfortable, or general unrest is a tell tale sign, as well.

Tips & Warnings

• You will want to seek medical attention from a veterinarian as early as possible in the pregnancy. Your vet can give to the best advice for feeding and caring for a pregnant dog.
• As a responsible pet owner, spaying your dog at an early age will greatly lessen the chances of pregnancy.
• If your dog appears to be unwell, and you are still not sure if she is pregnant, take her to the vet as soon as possible. Listlessness and lack of hunger can also signify other problems. It is best to seek a veterinarian's advice.

[lucy-huksy]

on 11/17/2008 MY dog matted about a month ago, and after 2 weeks i noticed she didnt really wanna eat, but i dont see any difference in her weight, she is a siberian husky and im not sure if they take longer to show , but she doesnt appear to be pregnant despite matting several times, and i was so excited that she might be pregnant but now it doesnt look like she is at all.