All You Need To Know About Dog Pregnancy Symptoms Week 1

Dog pregnancy symptoms often depend on the breed and size of the dog in question. During the first week of pregnancy, it’s common for a female dog to be tired and moody. She may also eat more than usual and even have swollen nipples. It’s also possible for her to have a decrease in her physical activity level. Of course, it’s important to keep an eye on her health and overall well-being during this time. It’s also a good idea to bring her to the vet for an examination to ensure that she is healthy and the pregnancy is progressing properly.

All You Need To Know About Dog Pregnancy Symptoms Week 1

Size Increase: During the first week of pregnancy, the female dog’s body will start to show visible signs that she is pregnant. This is largely due to hormonal changes and the growth of the puppies. Her abdomen will start to swell, and she may gain a few extra pounds.

Appetite Change: During the first week of pregnancy, the female dog’s appetite will probably increase. She may begin to eat more than usual and may even display some cravings for certain types of food. This is due to an increase in her metabolic rate.

Lethargy: As her hormone levels increase, the female dog may become more lethargic than normal. This is perfectly normal and should not be worrying. In this case, it may simply be down to her body adjusting to its increased metabolic rate.

Nausea: During the first week of pregnancy, the female dog may experience bouts of nausea. This is due to the hormonal changes taking place in her body. If the nausea is severe, you may need to provide her with some light vomit-inducing medication.

Weight Loss: Despite the fact that the female dog’s appetite has increased and she is gaining weight due to the puppies developing within her womb, she may also experience some weight loss. This is due to the increased energy that it takes her body to sustain the fetuses.

Temperature Increase: As the puppies develop within the female dog’s womb, her body temperature will begin to rise by around one degree Celsius. This rise in temperature can usually be detected using a rectal thermometer.

Breast Enlargement: As the puppies start to develop, the female dog’s mammary glands will start to enlarge, even if they are not visible from the outside. This is a sign that the puppies are beginning to show their presence.

Vaginal Discharge: During the first week of pregnancy, the female dog’s vagina will produce a fluid that often appears white but can also be yellow or clear. This should not be confused with urine, as it is actually mucus and is produced by the body for lubrication purposes.

Nesting: During this period, the female dog may begin to display an instinctive behavior known as “nesting”. This means that she will start trying to find a place to “nest”, often involving the gathering of items such as towels, blankets, and other materials. This behavior can usually be seen within two weeks of pregnancy.

Inflated Vulva: During the first week of pregnancy, the female dog’s vulva may become swollen and slightly inflamed. This can lead to an increase in the amount of mucous that is produced by the vagina. This is perfectly normal and is usually caused by the increased amount of estrogen in the body.

Early Signs Of Dog Pregnancy Nipples

One of the first signs of dog pregnancy is an increase in size and dark pink color of the nipples, usually about three weeks after mating. Other signs of early pregnancy include increased appetite, decreased activity, and nesting behavior, which typically begin about four weeks into the pregnancy.

SEE ALSO: Why Is My Dogs Nose Running?

3 Week Pregnant Dog Nipples

At three weeks pregnant, a female dog’s nipples should be larger and more prominent due to the hormonal changes taking place in the body. As the pregnancy progresses, nipples may grow even larger and darker in color. During this stage, your dog may be sensitive about being touched, especially around the belly and chest areas. You will want to ensure that you are gentle and provide your dog with the extra care and comfort she needs during this time.

Dog Pregnancy Signs Week By Week

Week 1: No obvious signs of pregnancy except possibly increased appetite

Week 2: Slight abdominal enlargement begins

Week 3: Slight pink or red discharge

Week 4: Firmening of nipples, spotting of pink or red discharge

Week 5: Abdominal enlargement increases, darker/waxier nipples

Week 6: Movement of the litter when palpated (feeling with fingers)

Week 7: Slight increase in body temperature

Week 8: Visible movements of litter under the skin

Week 9: Feelable fetal kicks, labored breathing, increase in drinking water/urinating more often, decreased appetite, possible nesting behavior.

Early Signs Of Dog Pregnancy 2 Weeks

No physical signs of pregnancy should be noticeable in a dog during the first two weeks. However, the pregnancy can be confirmed by a veterinarian during a physical examination. A blood test can also be done to determine if the dog is pregnant.

Dog Pregnancy Symptoms Week 3

During week 3 of pregnancy, a pregnant dog’s physical and behavioral changes may become more noticeable. She may start to show signs of tiredness or irritability as her hormones fluctuate. In addition, her nipples may become slightly enlarged and she may start to gain weight. Her appetite may increase, and she may experience a decrease in activity level due to hormonal fluctuations. Finally, her vulva may become swollen and her abdomen may become larger, indicating the growth of the fetus.

Dog Pregnancy Week 4 Symptoms

At this stage, the female dog is not likely to show any outward signs of pregnancy. However, the uterus is beginning to expand as the embryos continue developing. The dog may become more fatigued and have decreased appetite. As the pregnancy progresses, she may also become more sensitive to touch and body heat.

Dog Pregnancy Symptoms Week 5

Physical Symptoms:

Increased appetite
Nipples may become swollen and slightly enlarged
The abdomen is starting to round or swell

Behavioral Symptoms:

More frequent nesting behavior (seeking out warm and comfortable spaces)
Becoming less active
More frequent periods of sleeping

What Are The Stages of Pregnancy in Dogs?

Pre-Mating Stage: During this stage, your dog should be evaluated by a veterinarian for any conditions that could affect her ability to reproduce.
Heat Cycle: A dog will cycle through three phases: Proestrus, Estrus, and Diestrus.
Mating: Once the female is in heat, she can be bred and mating can occur.
Pregnancy: Depending on the breed, a typical canine pregnancy will last 58-68 days.
Labor: During this time it is important to be alert to signs of labor, which include panting, pacing, restlessness, and digging.
Delivery: Once labor has started, your dog may start to deliver her puppies within 6-12 hours.
Post-Partum: After her delivery, mama-dog may want to separate herself and the puppies from the rest of the family as she adjusts to her new role as a mother.

How To Tell If Your Dog Is Pregnant At Home

Early Signs: Watch your dog’s behavior for signs of changes. She may seem more affectionate, lethargic, or moody.
Appetite: Observe your dog’s appetite. Is she eating more? Do her meals seem to be influencing her oddly?
Weight Gain/Abdominal Swelling: Monitor your dog’s weight gain and pay close attention to her stomach. Does it appear to be swelling?
Temperature: Know your dog’s normal temperature and check it periodically. An increase in her core body temperature could indicate early pregnancy.
Rectal Palpation or Ultrasound: Schedule a trip to your vet and have them perform rectal palpation of your pup or an abdominal ultrasound. This is the only sure way to diagnose pregnancy in your dog.

How To Take Care Of A Pregnant Dog

Visit the vet – this is the most important and first step in caring for a pregnant dog. Your vet can help you determine the health of your dog and provide important advice on nutritional needs, supplements, safety precautions, and other health concerns of your pregnant dog.
Provide nutritious food – During pregnancy, it is important to feed your dog a high-quality, balanced diet with increased protein, calcium, and other vitamins and minerals specific to a pregnant dog.
Allow for plenty of rest – To ensure your dog remains healthy during pregnancy, it is essential she gets plenty of rest. Make sure she has a quiet, safe place to rest away from other animals and children.
Monitor body temperature – During pregnancy, your dog’s temperature may fluctuate slightly, so it is important to periodically monitor her temperature with a specially designed rectal thermometer.
Provide secure housing and comfortable bedding – To keep your dog safe and comfortable during her pregnancy, provide her with a secure, climate-controlled space. Place comfortable bedding in her area to maximize her comfort level throughout pregnancy.
Read signs of labor – As your dog gets closer to her due date, it is important to pay close attention to any signs she may show that labor is imminent. Keep track of any symptom changes, have a plan for whelping, and be ready to help her during labor if it is necessary.

FAQs

Q. How can I tell if my dog is pregnant after 1 week?

A. As soon as one week into the pregnancy, your veterinarian may be able to palpate the abdomen and feel the pregnancy.

Q. How soon can I tell if my dog is pregnant?

A. Typically, if your dog has been bred, you will be able to tell if she is pregnant by the end of her fourth week of gestation. The signs of pregnancy in dogs include an increased appetite, enlarged nipples, and restlessness.

Q. What to expect when your dog is pregnant for the first time?

A. When your dog is expecting for the first time, you should expect some physical and behavioral changes. Physically, you may see an increase in appetite, a fuller abdomen, and weight gain. Behaviorally, your dog may become more affectionate, restless, or irritable.

Conclusion

Dog pregnancy is a very exciting time and can be a lot of fun for both the mother and the owner. It is important to know the symptoms that different weeks during a dog pregnancy will present themselves with, as this can help you monitor her health and ensure she and the puppies are all healthy and safe. The early weeks of pregnancy, from week 1 to week 8 are especially important, as this is when the puppies are most vulnerable and the owner needs to be extra vigilant about any signs of distress or discomfort in the mother. With proper observations and care, you will ensure a healthy and happy pregnancy for your dog.

All You Need To Know About Dog Pregnancy Symptoms Week 1