Dog Pregnancy Calculator

The calculator is accurate to within ±5 days when using the mating date, and ±1 day when using the ovulation date confirmed by progesterone testing. Accuracy improves with breed-specific adjustments and monitoring of pregnancy signs. The 63-day average is based on extensive veterinary research, but individual variation is normal and expected.

If the exact mating date is unknown, veterinary ultrasound can estimate gestational age. Ultrasound performed at 25-35 days of pregnancy can date the pregnancy to within 3-5 days by measuring fetal structures. X-rays taken after day 45 can count puppies and estimate due date based on skeletal development. Your veterinarian may also use progesterone testing to determine current pregnancy stage and estimate delivery date.

Breed size correlates with gestation length due to differences in metabolic rates and fetal development patterns. Smaller dogs have faster metabolisms and typically shorter gestation periods (58-63 days), while larger breeds have slower metabolic rates and longer pregnancies (63-68 days). Additionally, litter size affects gestation - larger litters may trigger earlier delivery due to uterine capacity limits, while smaller litters may carry longer.

Begin whelping preparations around day 50-55 of pregnancy. Set up a quiet, comfortable whelping box in a low-traffic area where the mother feels secure. Gather supplies including clean towels, heating pad, sterile scissors, dental floss (for umbilical cords), puppy formula, and your veterinarian's emergency contact information. Start monitoring the mother's temperature twice daily from day 58 onwards.

A dog's normal temperature is 101-102°F (38.3-38.9°C). A drop to 99-100°F (37.2-37.8°C) indicates labor will begin within 12-24 hours. This temperature drop is caused by decreasing progesterone levels and is the most reliable predictor of imminent whelping. Monitor temperature rectally twice daily starting at day 58, and notify your veterinarian when the drop occurs.

Pregnancy confirmation methods include: (1) Ultrasound at 25-35 days - most reliable early method, can detect heartbeats and estimate litter size; (2) Palpation at 28-35 days - experienced veterinarian can feel embryos; (3) Relaxin hormone blood test at 25-30 days - 95%+ accuracy; (4) X-ray after day 45 - can count puppies by viewing skeletons. Physical signs include weight gain, enlarged abdomen, behavioral changes, and mammary gland development.

During weeks 1-5, maintain normal high-quality adult dog food portions. Starting week 6, gradually increase food by 25% per week until whelping, switching to puppy formula or high-protein food. Divide into 3-4 smaller meals daily to accommodate reduced stomach capacity. Supplement with calcium only if recommended by veterinarian (excess calcium can cause problems). Ensure constant access to fresh water. Avoid sudden diet changes and consult your vet about prenatal vitamins.

Moderate exercise is beneficial throughout pregnancy but should be adjusted as pregnancy progresses. Weeks 1-5: Continue normal exercise routine but avoid jumping, rough play, and excessive running. Weeks 6-8: Reduce intensity, focus on gentle walks and swimming (if dog enjoys water). Week 9: Limit to short, leisurely walks as the mother desires. Never force exercise, and watch for signs of fatigue. Avoid activities with fall risk or abdominal impact.

Stage 1 (6-12 hours): Cervical dilation, restlessness, panting, nesting, possible vomiting, temperature drop, no visible contractions. Stage 2 (3-12 hours): Active labor with visible contractions, puppies delivered 30-60 minutes apart (up to 2 hours acceptable). Each puppy emerges in amniotic sac which mother should break and clean. Stage 3: Placenta delivery after each puppy (within 15 minutes). Stages 2 and 3 alternate until all puppies are born.

Litter size varies significantly by breed size, age, and genetics. Small breeds (under 25 lbs): 1-4 puppies average. Medium breeds (25-60 lbs): 4-6 puppies average. Large breeds (60-100 lbs): 6-10 puppies average. Giant breeds (over 100 lbs): 8-12 puppies average. First-time mothers typically have smaller litters. Older females (over 5-6 years) may have reduced litter sizes. X-rays after day 45 provide accurate puppy counts.

If pregnancy extends beyond day 68 from mating, immediate veterinary evaluation is essential. Extended pregnancy can indicate complications such as uterine inertia, fetal death, or miscalculated due date. Your veterinarian may perform ultrasound to check fetal viability, assess cervical readiness, and determine if intervention is needed. Do not wait beyond day 70 without veterinary consultation as risks to mother and puppies increase significantly.

Yes, significant stress can impact pregnancy progression and timing. Severe stress may cause early delivery, developmental issues, or in extreme cases, pregnancy loss. Maintain a calm, consistent environment throughout pregnancy. Avoid moving, introducing new pets, or major household changes. Stress near term can delay labor onset. Provide a quiet, secure whelping area where the mother feels safe. Minimize visitors and loud noises, especially during the final two weeks.

No, breeding during the first heat cycle is not recommended. Female dogs should reach physical and mental maturity before pregnancy. For small breeds, wait until at least 18-24 months old (2nd or 3rd heat). Medium breeds should be 2 years old minimum. Large and giant breeds should be 2-3 years old before first breeding. Early breeding increases risks of pregnancy complications, difficult delivery, and inadequate maternal behavior. Consult your veterinarian for breed-specific recommendations.

Essential veterinary care includes: (1) Pre-breeding health check and genetic testing; (2) Pregnancy confirmation at 25-30 days via ultrasound or blood test; (3) Mid-pregnancy checkup at 45-50 days including X-ray for puppy count; (4) Pre-whelping examination at 55-58 days to assess readiness; (5) Deworming protocol as recommended by vet; (6) Nutrition counseling; (7) Emergency contact plan for labor complications. Some dogs may need more frequent visits based on age, health conditions, or previous pregnancy complications.

C-section may be necessary if: (1) Strong contractions for 2+ hours without puppy delivery; (2) More than 4 hours between puppies; (3) Visible puppy stuck in birth canal; (4) Green discharge before first puppy (indicates placental separation); (5) Signs of maternal distress (weakness, collapse, seizures); (6) Known breed predisposition (Bulldogs, French Bulldogs); (7) Previous C-section history; (8) Fetal distress detected on ultrasound. Certain breeds with large heads relative to pelvis have higher C-section rates and should have veterinary assistance available during whelping.

Essential whelping supplies include: Whelping box (36-48" for medium dogs), clean towels (12-24), heating pad or heat lamp, digital thermometer, sterile scissors and dental floss, iodine for umbilical cords, bulb syringe for clearing airways, puppy milk replacer, small bottles, digital scale for weighing puppies, disposable gloves, medical records notebook, veterinarian's emergency number prominently displayed, and flashlight. Optional but helpful: baby wipes, puppy ID collars, and video monitor for observation.