Instruction: how to determine if a dog is pregnant

Recognizing Early Pregnancy in Dogs

Behavioral Changes

Veterinary professionals recognize that subtle shifts in a dog’s behavior often precede more obvious physical signs of pregnancy. Observing these changes can provide an early indication that a breeding female is expecting.

Increased affection toward owners or other animals; the dog may seek constant contact, rest her head on laps, or follow people closely.
Heightened protectiveness of personal items such as toys, bedding, or food bowls; the dog may guard these resources more vigilantly than usual.
Noticeable changes in activity level; some dogs become unusually lethargic, preferring rest, while others display bursts of energy and playfulness, both representing a deviation from baseline patterns.
Altered appetite patterns; a temporary decrease or increase in food intake may occur, often accompanied by selective eating or refusal of previously favored treats.
Enhanced nesting instincts; the dog may start gathering blankets, towels, or other soft materials, arranging them in a specific area of the home even before visible abdominal enlargement.

These behavioral cues, when documented alongside a regular health monitoring schedule, allow owners and veterinarians to differentiate early pregnancy from other hormonal or health conditions. Prompt recognition supports timely veterinary assessment, appropriate nutritional adjustments, and preparation for the upcoming whelping period.

1. Decreased Activity Levels

Veterinary experts recognize reduced activity as one of the earliest indicators that a female dog may be pregnant. Hormonal fluctuations after ovulation cause a noticeable decline in energy, especially in breeds that normally exhibit high stamina. Owners should monitor daily routines for subtle changes: a normally brisk walker may linger longer during walks, a previously enthusiastic player may abandon games sooner, and rest periods may increase without an apparent health issue.

Key observations include:

Shorter play sessions and reluctance to engage in vigorous exercise.
Preference for lying down or finding quiet spots more often than usual.
Decreased willingness to chase or retrieve objects, even when motivated by favorite toys.
A general slowdown in movement, such as walking with a slower gait or taking fewer steps during walks.

These behavioral shifts typically emerge within the first two weeks after mating and persist as the pregnancy progresses. While reduced activity alone does not confirm gestation, it warrants further evaluation through veterinary examination and diagnostic testing.

2. Increased Affection or Irritability

When a female dog enters the early stages of gestation, subtle shifts in her social behavior often become evident. Owners may notice a marked increase in physical closeness; the dog may seek out laps, rest her head on a human’s hand, or follow people from room to room more persistently than before. This heightened affection reflects hormonal changes that amplify the animal’s desire for reassurance and warmth.

Conversely, some dogs exhibit heightened irritability during the same period. Minor disturbances-such as a brief touch or a sudden noise-can provoke a sharper response than usual. The dog may snap, growl, or retreat quickly, indicating a lower tolerance for stressors that were previously tolerated.

Both patterns-greater affection and increased irritability-can appear simultaneously or alternate as the pregnancy progresses. Recognizing these behavioral cues helps differentiate early gestation from other conditions, such as hormonal imbalances or environmental stress. Monitoring the frequency and intensity of these responses provides valuable information for timely veterinary consultation and appropriate care planning.

3. Changes in Appetite

Pregnant dogs often exhibit noticeable shifts in their eating behavior within the first few weeks after conception. These alterations can be subtle, but they provide reliable clues when observed alongside other physiological changes.

Increased consumption: Many bitches develop a heightened drive for food, seeking larger portions or more frequent meals. The metabolic demands of early embryonic development prompt the body to store additional energy, leading to a steady rise in caloric intake.
Reduced appetite: Some individuals experience a temporary loss of interest in food, especially during the luteal phase when hormone levels fluctuate. This dip is usually short‑lived and followed by a compensatory increase.
Selective cravings: A pregnant canine may favor specific textures or flavors, such as moist kibble, canned food, or protein‑rich treats. This preference often reflects the body’s need for higher protein and fat content.
Weight‑independent changes: Appetite shifts can occur even before any measurable weight gain, making them an early indicator that is not reliant on visual assessment.

Monitoring these patterns requires consistent feeding records. Document the timing, quantity, and type of food offered each day. Sudden deviations from the established baseline-whether an upward or downward trend-should be noted and discussed with a veterinarian to confirm pregnancy and plan appropriate nutrition.

Physical Indicators

Veterinary experience confirms that physical changes appear within the first three weeks after conception, providing the most reliable early evidence of pregnancy in dogs.

Nipple development is the earliest observable sign. By the second week, the mammary glands enlarge, the areola darkens, and the skin may become slightly swollen. This change persists throughout gestation and intensifies as the litter grows.

Abdominal contour shifts gradually. Around day 20, the belly may appear mildly rounded, especially in larger breeds. The expansion is subtle; the abdomen does not become markedly distended until later weeks, but a slight increase in girth distinguishes pregnant dogs from those merely experiencing a bloated stomach.

Weight gain follows a predictable pattern. A steady increase of 1-2 % of body weight per week signals fetal development. Sudden spikes or loss of condition suggest alternative health issues and should be evaluated by a veterinarian.

Appetite fluctuations serve as a practical indicator. An initial decrease in food intake often occurs during the first ten days, followed by a marked increase as metabolic demands rise. Consistent changes in feeding behavior, rather than occasional variations, warrant attention.

Behavioral alterations reflect hormonal shifts. Pregnant dogs may exhibit heightened affection, seek solitude, or display nesting instincts, such as arranging bedding. These actions are not random but correlate with the progression of gestation.

Vaginal discharge provides a tangible clue. A thin, clear to straw‑colored fluid may be present between days 15 and 25. The absence of blood or foul odor differentiates normal discharge from infection.

A concise checklist of physical indicators:

Darkened, enlarged nipples (areolae) by week 2
Slight abdominal rounding detectable by week 3
Gradual weight gain of 1-2 % per week
Initial appetite reduction, then increased consumption
Noticeable changes in affection and nesting behavior
Clear, thin vaginal discharge without odor

Observation of multiple items on this list strengthens the diagnosis of pregnancy. When uncertainty remains, ultrasonography or hormonal testing offers definitive confirmation.

1. Nipple Changes

Veterinary specialists identify nipple alterations as one of the earliest external indicators of canine gestation. Around the third week after conception, the mammary glands typically begin to enlarge; the tissue becomes firmer and more prominent, even before any abdominal swelling is evident. Pigmentation often deepens, producing a pink‑to‑red hue that distinguishes the nipples from their usual lighter color. Visible blood vessels may become more apparent across the udder surface, and the areola can appear swollen and slightly raised.

Key characteristics to observe:

Enlargement of each mammary gland, noticeable to the touch
Darkening of the nipple and areola coloration
Prominent vascular pattern on the skin covering the udder
Slight edema or firmness of the tissue, without milk secretion

These changes vary among breeds and individual dogs; some females display subtle shifts, while others show pronounced development. Monitoring the progression over several days helps differentiate normal hormonal fluctuations from pregnancy‑related growth. When nipple changes persist or intensify, a veterinary examination-often including ultrasound or hormonal testing-provides definitive confirmation of gestation.

2. Vaginal Discharge

When evaluating early indicators of canine pregnancy, vaginal discharge offers a practical observation point. Around the third week after mating, many bitches exhibit a thin, straw‑colored fluid that may appear slightly cloudy. The discharge is typically odorless and does not contain blood. An increase in volume or a shift to pinkish or brown tones can suggest other reproductive events, such as estrus bleeding or an infection, and warrants veterinary assessment.

Key characteristics to monitor:

Color: Clear to light straw; pink or red hues indicate possible bleeding.
Consistency: Watery, not mucous or pus‑like.
Odor: Neutral; a foul smell suggests bacterial involvement.
Timing: Appears 18-21 days post‑mating; persists for a few days before diminishing.

Differentiating normal pregnancy discharge from pathological conditions relies on these parameters. Persistent, foul‑smelling, or heavily pigmented discharge should prompt immediate veterinary consultation to rule out pyometra or other uterine disorders. Regular observation, combined with a physical exam and, where available, ultrasound, enhances early detection accuracy.

3. Abdominal Swelling (Subtle)

Subtle abdominal swelling often appears between the third and fourth weeks of gestation. The increase is modest, typically a few centimeters in girth, and may be mistaken for a normal weight gain or mild bloating. Careful observation can differentiate pregnancy from other causes such as gastrointestinal distension or fluid accumulation.

Key characteristics to assess:

Symmetry - swelling is usually uniform across the ventral abdomen; asymmetry may indicate a mass or organ enlargement.
Texture - the skin remains pliable and the underlying tissue feels slightly firmer than normal but not rigid.
Timing - the change progresses gradually over several days rather than appearing abruptly.
Associated signs - mild nipple enlargement or a slight increase in appetite often accompany the swelling, reinforcing the suspicion of pregnancy.

When measuring the abdomen, use a flexible tape at the level of the ribs, recording the circumference each day. A consistent increase of 1-2 cm per week suggests fetal development, whereas fluctuating measurements may point to gastrointestinal gas or ascites.

Veterinarians can confirm the observation through gentle palpation. Between days 28 and 35, the uterus becomes palpable as a smooth, doughy mass beneath the ribs. Palpation should be performed with the dog in a relaxed position, applying light pressure to avoid discomfort. If the swelling is subtle and the dog shows no signs of pain, the finding supports early pregnancy rather than pathology.

In practice, combine the visual assessment of abdominal girth with other early indicators-such as nipple changes and behavioral shifts-to reach a reliable conclusion before diagnostic imaging is required.

Confirmation Methods

Veterinary Examination

As a veterinary specialist, I evaluate canine pregnancy through a systematic clinical assessment that reveals early physiological changes before visual confirmation.

Physical examination focuses on subtle alterations. Palpation of the abdomen between days 25‑30 can detect embryonic structures in the uterine horns. The examiner feels for firm, elongated masses distinct from ovarian tissue. Simultaneously, inspection of the vulva may show mild edema and a slight increase in size, while the mammary glands become more prominent, with darkening of the areola and occasional serous discharge.

Laboratory diagnostics provide objective confirmation. A serum progesterone concentration exceeding 2 ng/mL indicates luteal activity consistent with gestation. The presence of relaxin, measured by a specific immunoassay, confirms pregnancy as early as day 22 and distinguishes it from pseudopregnancy. Complete blood count and biochemical profile can reveal modest anemia and elevated alkaline phosphatase, reflecting the metabolic demands of early fetal development.

Imaging techniques complement manual findings. Transabdominal ultrasonography performed after day 25 visualizes fetal heartbeats and fluid‑filled gestational sacs. Radiography becomes informative after day 45 when skeletal ossification allows identification of litters, but it is not required for early detection.

Key early indicators identified through veterinary examination:

Abdominal palpation revealing uterine swellings (days 25‑30)
Vulvar edema and slight enlargement
Mammary gland enlargement with areolar darkening
Serum progesterone > 2 ng/mL
Detectable relaxin in serum (day 22 onward)
Ultrasound visualization of embryonic structures (day 25+)

These observations, when integrated, enable a reliable early diagnosis of canine pregnancy, allowing timely nutritional and medical management.

1. Palpation

Palpation is a practical early‑detection method for canine pregnancy that can be performed by a knowledgeable veterinarian once the gestation period reaches approximately 28-30 days. At this stage the uterine horns enlarge enough to be felt through the abdominal wall, allowing the practitioner to distinguish them from surrounding tissues.

The technique involves gently compressing the abdomen in a systematic pattern while the dog is in a calm, restrained position. The examiner places the fingertips just behind the rib cage and moves caudally along each side, applying enough pressure to feel the underlying structures without causing discomfort. A trained hand can detect the smooth, rounded swellings of the uterine horns and, in later days of the window, may feel individual fetal bodies as small, firm nodules within the uterus.

Key considerations for reliable palpation include:

Timing: optimal after day 28 of gestation; earlier attempts often yield ambiguous results.
Experience: accurate interpretation requires familiarity with normal abdominal anatomy and the tactile characteristics of a pregnant uterus.
Dog size: larger breeds present clearer landmarks; small breeds may demand more delicate handling.
Safety: avoid excessive force that could damage developing embryos; maintain a calm environment to reduce stress.
Confirmation: palpation findings should be corroborated with ultrasound or hormonal testing for definitive diagnosis.

Limitations arise when the dog is obese, has a full gastrointestinal tract, or exhibits uterine pathology unrelated to pregnancy, all of which can obscure tactile cues. Consequently, palpation is most effective when combined with other diagnostic tools and performed by a professional with specific training in reproductive assessment.

2. Ultrasound

Ultrasound provides the most reliable confirmation of canine gestation before visual signs appear. A trained veterinarian can detect embryonic structures as early as 21-25 days after mating using a high‑frequency (7-10 MHz) linear transducer. The procedure involves the following steps:

Preparation: The dog should be gently restrained in a calm environment; shaving the abdominal area improves image quality.
Timing: Scans performed between days 21 and 30 reveal fetal heartbeats and fluid‑filled gestational sacs; earlier examinations may miss small embryos.
Image interpretation: Presence of a hypoechoic uterine lumen, distinct vesicles, and pulsatile cardiac activity confirms pregnancy. Absence of these features after day 30 suggests non‑pregnancy or early embryonic loss.
Limitations: Ultrasound cannot reliably determine litter size until after day 30, and excessive gas in the gastrointestinal tract may obscure views.
Follow‑up: A second scan around day 45 provides clearer visualization of fetal skeletons and allows assessment of fetal viability.

When conducted by an experienced practitioner, ultrasound eliminates ambiguity inherent in behavioral or physical cues, delivering definitive evidence of pregnancy at a stage when intervention, nutritional planning, and health monitoring can be initiated promptly.

3. Hormone Testing

Hormone testing provides the most reliable confirmation of pregnancy before physical changes become apparent. The primary marker is relaxin, a protein produced by the placenta and detectable in the mother’s blood or urine. Commercial relaxin kits require a single sample; a positive result indicates conception with a reliability exceeding 95 % after day 25 of gestation.

Progesterone levels also inform reproductive status. In non‑pregnant bitches, progesterone rises during estrus, peaks around ovulation, and falls within a week if no fertilization occurs. In pregnant dogs, concentrations remain elevated for the duration of gestation. A single serum measurement between days 20 and 30 can differentiate between luteal phase and early pregnancy, but serial testing improves accuracy.

Practical steps for hormone testing:

Collect blood from the cephalic or jugular vein using a sterile needle and anticoagulant‑free tube; allow clotting, then centrifuge to obtain serum.
For urine relaxin, obtain a fresh sample mid‑morning; avoid dilution with excessive water.
Submit the sample to a veterinary laboratory that offers validated ELISA or immunochromatographic assays for relaxin or progesterone.
Record the exact day of sample collection relative to the estimated breeding date; timing influences interpretation.
Compare results against reference ranges provided by the laboratory; a relaxin value above the cutoff or a progesterone level remaining above 5 ng/mL after day 25 supports pregnancy.

When interpreting results, consider that false negatives may occur if testing is performed before day 21, when relaxin production is minimal. False positives are rare but can arise from certain endocrine disorders; correlating hormone data with ultrasound findings after day 30 strengthens the diagnosis. Regular monitoring of hormone trends also helps identify potential complications such as embryonic resorption or early miscarriage.

Timeline of Pregnancy Signs

First 2-3 Weeks

During the initial two‑to‑three weeks after conception, physiological changes are subtle but measurable. Hormonal fluctuations begin almost immediately; progesterone and relaxin levels rise, preparing the uterus for implantation. Blood tests that quantify relaxin can detect pregnancy as early as 22 days, but many veterinarians rely on serial hormone panels to confirm trends before this point.

Physical signs appear gradually. The vulva may exhibit a slight swelling and a faint discharge, often clear or slightly pink. These changes are easy to miss without close observation. Owners should note any deviation from the normal estrus discharge, which typically becomes thicker and more purulent after ovulation.

Behavioral alterations provide additional clues. A dog may show reduced activity, mild lethargy, or a newfound preference for quiet resting spots. Appetite can fluctuate: some females experience a brief decrease, while others maintain normal intake. Monitoring food consumption alongside weight measurements helps differentiate normal post‑estrus behavior from early gestational effects.

Key diagnostic steps for the first three weeks:

Collect baseline blood sample during estrus for comparison.
Perform a follow‑up serum relaxin assay after day 22, if possible.
Observe vulvar appearance daily; document size, color, and discharge consistency.
Record activity levels and resting patterns; note any marked changes.
Track daily food intake and weigh the dog weekly.

Early detection relies on systematic observation and targeted hormonal testing. Consistent data collection enables veterinarians to confirm pregnancy before ultrasonography becomes viable, allowing timely nutritional and medical management.

Weeks 4-6

During the fourth to sixth week of gestation, physiological changes become detectable, allowing owners to confirm pregnancy before visual confirmation of whelping.

At approximately day 28-35, the corpus luteum continues to secrete progesterone, stabilizing the uterine environment. Serum progesterone levels rise above 5 ng/mL; a veterinary blood test can quantify this increase and differentiate pregnancy from pseudopregnancy.

Around day 30, the embryonic vesicles begin to enlarge, producing subtle abdominal expansion. Palpation by an experienced veterinarian can reveal softened uterine walls and small, smooth swellings near the caudal abdomen. Manual examination should be performed with the dog in lateral recumbency, applying gentle pressure to avoid discomfort.

Mammary gland development commences in week five. The teats become slightly enlarged, the areola darkens, and a faint milk line may appear. This change occurs without the concurrent behavioral signs of heat, distinguishing pregnancy from estrus.

Nipple secretion may emerge as a clear or milky fluid, known as colostrum, indicating hormonal activity of prolactin and oxytocin. Observation of this discharge, especially when accompanied by the aforementioned abdominal changes, strengthens the diagnosis.

Behavioral alterations often surface during weeks four to six: increased affection, reduced activity, and a tendency to seek warm, secluded areas. While not definitive, these patterns support physiological evidence.

Key diagnostic markers for weeks 4‑6:

Serum progesterone > 5 ng/mL (laboratory confirmation)
Palpable uterine swellings via experienced manual exam
Early mammary enlargement and areola pigmentation
Presence of colostrum or clear nipple discharge
Subtle abdominal distension without overt weight gain

Combining laboratory data with physical examination yields the most reliable early confirmation of canine pregnancy during this critical developmental window.

Final Stages of Pregnancy

The final weeks of canine gestation bring distinct physiological and behavioral changes that signal the approach of whelping. Recognizing these markers helps owners confirm pregnancy and prepare for delivery.

Uterine enlargement becomes palpable as the abdomen swells noticeably. The ribs may no longer be visible, and the belly takes on a rounded, firm appearance. Temperature drops 1-2 °F (0.5-1 °C) within 24 hours of labor; a rectal thermometer provides the most reliable reading. A consistent decline to 99-100 °F (37.2-37.8 °C) indicates that foaling is imminent.

Nesting behavior intensifies. The dog may seek confined spaces, scratch at blankets, or rearrange bedding. This instinctual activity often peaks 48-72 hours before birth. Simultaneously, mammary glands enlarge and may begin producing a thin, milky fluid. Milk secretion may be faint at first but becomes more evident as parturition nears.

Physical signs include a softened cervix, which can be assessed by a veterinarian through a gentle vaginal exam. The presence of a mucus plug, often visible as a clear or slightly pink discharge, confirms that the cervix is preparing to open.

Key actions for owners during this stage:

Monitor temperature twice daily; record the lowest reading.
Provide a quiet, warm whelping area with accessible bedding.
Limit exercise to short leash walks; avoid strenuous activity.
Offer fresh water and a balanced diet; increase caloric intake gradually if advised by a vet.
Contact a veterinarian if temperature does not drop, if discharge becomes foul, or if the dog shows signs of distress.

By observing abdominal enlargement, temperature decline, nesting instincts, and mammary changes, owners can confidently identify the final phase of gestation and ensure a safe environment for the upcoming litter.

Differentiating from Pseudopregnancy

Similar Symptoms

Early pregnancy in dogs often shares clinical signs with other physiological or pathological states. Recognizing which manifestations are nonspecific prevents misinterpretation and guides appropriate diagnostic steps.

Common manifestations that may appear in pregnant bitches and in unrelated conditions include:

Slight increase in abdominal girth; also observed in gastrointestinal distension, obesity, or uterine pathology.
Mild nipple enlargement and darkening; can result from hormonal fluctuations during estrus or from mastitis.
Decreased appetite; frequently linked to gastrointestinal upset, stress, or systemic infection.
Lethargy or reduced activity; typical of illness, pain, or metabolic disorders such as hypothyroidism.
Low‑grade fever; may indicate infection, inflammation, or heat stress.

Distinguishing pregnancy from these alternatives relies on a combination of temporal patterns, physical examination, and targeted testing. Abdominal enlargement that progresses steadily over two to three weeks, coupled with symmetrical mammary development, favors gestation. Nipple changes that persist beyond the estrus cycle and are accompanied by secretions suggest lactation preparation. Persistent anorexia accompanied by vomiting or diarrhea points toward gastrointestinal disease rather than gestation. Consistent lethargy with fever exceeding 103 °F warrants laboratory work‑up to rule out infection.

Confirmatory diagnostics include ultrasonography, which detects embryonic structures as early as 25 days post‑ovulation, and serum relaxin measurement, which is specific to pregnancy. When early signs are ambiguous, these objective tools eliminate reliance on overlapping clinical features.

Key Distinctions

Veterinary specialists differentiate early canine gestation from other physiological changes by focusing on distinct patterns, timing, and measurable indicators. Recognizing these differences prevents misinterpretation of normal cycles, hormonal fluctuations, or health issues.

Nipple and mammary development: True pregnancy produces symmetrical enlargement, increased pigmentation, and occasional milk secretion within two to three weeks. Estrus‑related swelling is usually unilateral, less pronounced, and lacks color change.
Abdominal size: Detectable enlargement appears after day 20‑25 of gestation and progresses uniformly. A bloated abdomen caused by gastrointestinal gas or obesity shows irregular contour and no progressive growth.
Behavioral shifts: Pregnant dogs often exhibit nesting instincts, seeking quiet, confined spaces, and may become more protective of objects. Estrus or stress‑induced anxiety typically manifests as restlessness, frequent vocalization, and heightened receptivity to males.
Hormonal assays: Elevated relaxin levels, confirmed by a specific ELISA test, appear only in pregnant females after day 22. Progesterone remains high during both estrus and pregnancy, making it insufficient alone for diagnosis.
Ultrasound findings: Transabdominal imaging can visualize embryonic vesicles as early as day 25, with clear heartbeats. Fluid accumulation without embryos suggests pseudopregnancy or ovarian cysts.

Distinguishing these signs requires systematic observation and, when uncertainty persists, laboratory confirmation. Accurate identification guides appropriate nutritional supplementation, veterinary monitoring, and prevents unnecessary interventions.

What to Do if You Suspect Pregnancy

Contacting Your Veterinarian

When a breeder or owner suspects early pregnancy in a dog, the most reliable step is to involve a veterinary professional. A veterinarian can confirm pregnancy, assess the health of the dam, and provide guidance on nutrition and care throughout gestation.

Before calling, gather basic data: the date of the last heat cycle, any observed behavioral changes, appetite fluctuations, and physical signs such as nipple enlargement or mild abdominal swelling. Having this information ready enables the veterinarian to give a more accurate preliminary assessment.

During the appointment the veterinarian may perform one or more of the following:

Palpation of the abdomen (typically possible 25‑30 days after breeding)
Ultrasound examination (detectable as early as 21‑25 days)
Blood test for relaxin hormone (effective after 22‑27 days)

The veterinarian will also discuss vaccination status, parasite control, and dietary adjustments needed to support fetal development. If pregnancy is confirmed, a schedule of follow‑up visits will be established to monitor fetal growth and maternal health.

Maintain clear communication with the clinic: confirm appointment availability, ask about required pre‑visit fasting or medication restrictions, and request written instructions for at‑home monitoring. Prompt veterinary involvement reduces uncertainty and ensures that any complications are addressed early.

Preparing for a Pregnant Dog

When early indicators suggest canine pregnancy, the owner must arrange a safe, low‑stress setting. Provide a secluded area free from loud noises and heavy foot traffic. A sturdy, insulated whelping box with smooth sides prevents injury and encourages the dog to settle.

Nutrition requires immediate attention. Switch to a diet formulated for growth or lactation, increase caloric intake by 25‑30 % after the fourth week, and ensure balanced protein, DHA, calcium, and phosphorus. Avoid abrupt changes; transition over several days to maintain gastrointestinal health.

Veterinary supervision is essential. Schedule an initial examination to confirm pregnancy, followed by an ultrasound around day 25‑30. Request baseline blood work to detect anemia or infections. Discuss vaccination updates and parasite control, adjusting protocols to protect both dam and future puppies.

Exercise should remain moderate. Continue short, leashed walks to preserve muscle tone, but eliminate high‑impact activities that could strain joints or abdomen. Monitor weight gain; excessive accumulation signals potential metabolic concerns.

Prepare necessary supplies in advance. Typical items include:

Whelping box with removable sides
Thick, washable blankets or disposable pads
Heating pad with thermostat (set below 100 °F)
Scissors and sterile gauze for cord cutting
Neonatal puppy formula and bottles (for emergencies)
Scale for weighing newborns

Maintain a daily log of temperature, appetite, behavior, and any discharge. Record deviations promptly and consult the veterinarian if swelling, hemorrhage, or lethargy appear. Consistent observation enables early intervention and supports a successful delivery.

Instruction: how to determine if a dog is pregnant – early signs.