What does a pregnant dog look like week by week? - briefly
During the first two weeks of pregnancy, a dog may show no visible signs. By the third week, her nipples might start to enlarge and darken slightly. As the pregnancy progresses, her abdomen will gradually expand, becoming noticeably larger around the sixth or seventh week.
What does a pregnant dog look like week by week? - in detail
During pregnancy, dogs undergo several physical changes that can be observed on a weekly basis. Here's a detailed breakdown of what to expect:
Week 1-2: At this early stage, it might not be immediately apparent that your dog is pregnant. However, some owners may notice subtle changes in their dog's behavior or appetite. The nipples might appear slightly larger and darker, but these changes are usually minimal at this point.
Week 3: By the third week, the nipples should be more pronounced and may start to enlarge further. Although not all dogs experience morning sickness, some might exhibit decreased appetite or slight vomiting during this period.
Week 4: At four weeks, the abdomen may begin to appear slightly swollen or distended, although it might still be too early for most people to notice. The nipples continue to grow and darken in color as they prepare for lactation.
Week 5-6: By the fifth week, the abdomen will start to visibly expand due to the growing puppies inside. Your dog may also gain some weight during this period. The mammary glands will become more prominent and may even leak a small amount of milk.
Week 7: At seven weeks, your dog's abdomen should be noticeably larger and rounder. She might start to nest or prepare a comfortable area for whelping. Her appetite may increase as the puppies demand more nutrients.
Week 8-9: During these final weeks before delivery, your dog's belly will continue to grow rapidly. The mammary glands should be fully developed and ready for lactation. You might notice a slight decrease in activity level as she prepares for labor.
Delivery: On average, dogs carry their puppies for about 63 days, or approximately nine weeks. However, the gestation period can vary slightly depending on the breed and individual dog. Once labor begins, you should closely monitor your dog to ensure a safe delivery.