Signs of Pregnancy in a Pit Bull

Your pregnant pit bull has probably already shown signs of her condition, but you likely haven't noticed them yet. Pit bulls drop subtle early hints that they are expecting, but unless you know what to look for, you probably won't catch them. Watch your pit bull closely and monitor her body to determine whether she's pregnant.

According to the Dog Park website, one of the first signs of pregnancy in a dog is an increase in appetite. It's hard to notice this in some pit bulls, as many already have voracious appetites. Pit bulls are athletic, hardy dogs that require a large caloric intake to maintain their energy levels. Therefore, a pit bull that eats a lot isn't necessarily odd. However, if your pit bull's appetite has increased dramatically over time, she may be pregnant.

Your dog's belly will swell as her puppies begin to grow inside her uterus. You may not notice this change because of your dog's characteristic build. Pit bulls are stocky and muscular. Because of their natural build, some pit bulls appear pregnant when they're not. Overweight pit bulls, in particular, can look as though they are expecting when they aren't. You may see the puppies moving in your pit bull's belly late in pregnancy. If you notice any changes in your pit bull's appearance, take her to a veterinarian for a pregnancy evaluation.

Most pit bulls are outgoing, social, and active. A pregnant pit bull, however, may be the opposite; some become shy, timid, and less active. Whether you notice this behavior depends on your dog's temperament. The pregnant pooch may even begin to mother inanimate objects, such as shoes, clothes, and stuffed animals, states Dr. Debra Primovic of the Pet Place website. Take your pit bull to a veterinarian for a pregnancy evaluation if you notice such abnormal behavior.

Many pregnant pit bulls display nipple growth early in pregnancy. The growth occurs to make room for milk. You'll probably spot this enlargement easily, as your pit bull doesn't have much hair on her belly to obscure your view. The nipples will become wider and longer. The tissue above them may start to swell, as well; because they're already so visible, you'll likely notice this growth.