As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
I know my dog is pregnant, but how do I know when the puppies are coming?
#1- The best way to know the due date is if you have the exact date of ovulation through Progesterone Testing. If you know the date of ovulation, you’ll know that the due date is 63 days later. When we know the exact date that the female should deliver her puppies, there is a small window for error. We expect those puppies to be born within 2 days before or after the due date. If not, check with the vet because puppies can pass away in utero if they are not born on time.
#2- If we know the date that the female was bred, we can guess that the due date will be around 63 days after the first tie. This method is less exact, so there is a wider window of possible birth. Semen can survive and fertilize eggs many days after a breeding, meaning the puppies might be “younger” in utero than we think, based on the breeding date.
The female may go into labor within 7 days before or after the date of the first breeding. If she has not had puppies 7 days after 63 days from the first tie, take her in to the vet to be sure everything is OK.
#3- Let’s say the pregnancy is accidental, and we do not know when our dog was bred or when she ovulated.
Idea 1- Do you recall when her heat cycle was? She likely ovulated around 10-16 days after she started bleeding. This could give an idea of when to expect puppies.
Idea 2- A vet may be able to guess the gestational age of the puppies via ultrasound.
Idea 3- If you can see or feel the puppies moving, you’re likely within 1-2 weeks of delivery!
Either way, be sure to familiarize yourself with the signs of labor and prepare with important items to be sure that you can handle anything nature throws at you during labor and delivery!
Leave a Reply