If you’re the owner of a female dog who isn’t yet spayed, you need to be careful about potential pregnancies in her future. She will be fertile whenever a heat comes around, and if you’re still taking her out on walks and you’re not too fussed about who she socializes with, you could end up with a litter of puppies in two months’ time – surprise!
That’s why it’s always best to be careful when your dog is in heat.
As such, make sure you know the signs of pregnancy, especially if you have male, non-neutered dogs in your home as well.
Keep an eye out for the signs below, and if you spot any, get her along to the vet ASAP.
Nipples are Larger than Normal
If your dog is about to have a litter of puppies, their mammary glands are going to become enlarged as they start to produce milk.
This can lead to a visible increase in their nipple/teat size, and you may notice her abdomen hanging lower than normal.
These changes tend to occur around the middle of her gestation period. So if you notice unusual symptoms relating to her nipples, get her along to a vet within 24 hours (if possible).
More Tired Than Usual
If your dog is pregnant, she’s going to need to stock up on energy while she has the chance.
That’s why dogs in any trimester of pregnancy are going to nap more often or tire more easily during a walk or after playtime.
You may notice this combines quite seamlessly with a lower appetite, which can be a very worrying sign – make sure your vet is aware of these changes from the moment you notice she’s tired and off her food for more than 24-48 hours.
Wants More Cuddles or Nothing to Do with You
Just like with humans, canine reproduction causes a lot of changes in hormones.
Dogs can then have their own unique and individual reactions to these hormonal changes.
As such, if you’ve noticed your dog’s temperament getting a little off kilter recently, it could be a sign she’s carrying puppies.
For some dogs, this means getting a lot more affectionate with you.
They may never want to be away from you, ask for cuddles more often, climb all over you and get upset when you need to move.
Ask a vet about these behaviors after a heat has occurred – they may then recommend an ultrasound.
Alternatively, they can go entirely the opposite way and become a lot more cranky and moody and want to be more independent.
If your dog used to love cuddles and napping on the sofa with you, but she recently had a heat and now can’t seem to stand you, take her along to a vet as well!
If your dog is pregnant, both her body and her behavior will begin to change.
Look out for these signs, especially if she’s just been through a heat.