Thinking your dog might be pregnant? Knowing how to spot the signs early, what steps to take next, and when to consult your vet will help keep mum and pups healthy and safe.
Here’s your complete guide, with expert-backed advice and practical tips.
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How to spot signs of pregnancy in dogs
Some early signs are subtle, but here’s what to watch for:
- Enlarged, pinker nipples (also called “pinking up”)
- Increased appetite
- Mild nausea (some dogs show reduced appetite in week 3–4)
- Behaviour changes: more affectionate, or nesting behaviours
- Gradual abdominal enlargement and weight gain (from week 4–5)
According to the PDSA:
"Pinking of the nipples is one of the first visible signs of pregnancy in dogs. Behaviour changes, such as seeking more attention, may also appear."
How to confirm pregnancy
Only your vet can confirm pregnancy for certain. They may use:
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Ultrasound scan — usually from day 25 post-mating
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Blood test — measures pregnancy hormone relaxin
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Abdominal palpation — feeling for puppies from day 28–35
Important: Human pregnancy tests do NOT work on dogs — they test for the wrong hormone.
The Kennel Club advises:
"Ultrasound is a safe and accurate way to confirm pregnancy and estimate the size of the litter."
How to care for a pregnant dog
Once pregnancy is confirmed:
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Nutrition: Feed a high-quality complete food — such as our RAW POWER or MIGHTY MINCE, which are balanced and suitable for all life stages, including pregnancy.
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Exercise: Keep walks gentle and regular — avoid strenuous exercise.
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Parasite control: Only use vet-recommended products during pregnancy.
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Stress reduction: Maintain a calm, predictable routine.
Preparing for whelping
The average pregnancy lasts about 63 days from mating. From week 7 onwards:
- Set up a quiet, safe whelping area with clean bedding
- Have supplies ready (towels, gloves, thermometer)
- Monitor for signs of labour (drop in temperature, nesting, restlessness)
Dr. Ilona Rodan, DVM, veterinary behaviourist, notes:
"Creating a quiet, low-stress environment for whelping is key. Too much disturbance can delay labour or cause distress."
When to call the vet
Contact your vet urgently if you see:
- Strong straining for more than 30 minutes with no puppy delivered
- Green or foul-smelling discharge before the first puppy
- More than 2 hours between puppies
- Excessive bleeding
- Obvious distress or weakness in the mother
Expert opinion
Dr. Margaret Root Kustritz, Professor of Theriogenology at the University of Minnesota, states:
"Proper nutrition and early veterinary care are critical for successful pregnancy and healthy pups. Feeding a complete and balanced diet formulated for all life stages, from a trusted source, is essential." (Source: Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine)
Final thought
Spotting the early signs of pregnancy and giving your dog the right care can make a world of difference.
At Poppy’s Picnic, we’re proud that our RAW POWER and MIGHTY MINCE recipes are balanced and suitable for pregnant dogs — giving mum and pups the best nutritional start.
If you think your dog may be expecting — book a vet visit early, feed well, and enjoy this exciting journey.
