Calculate your dog's pregnancy due date and track gestation progress with our comprehensive dog pregnancy calculator.
Dog pregnancy, also known as canine gestation, typically lasts approximately 63 days (9 weeks) from the date of breeding. However, the actual duration can vary between 58 to 68 days depending on the breed, litter size, and individual factors. Understanding the pregnancy timeline helps you prepare for whelping and ensure proper prenatal care for your dog.
| Stage | Timeframe | Key Developments | Care Needs |
|---|---|---|---|
| First Trimester | Weeks 1-3 | Fertilization, implantation, early embryo development | Normal diet, avoid stress, no medications without vet approval |
| Second Trimester | Weeks 4-6 | Organ development, skeleton formation, visible belly growth | Increase food intake, gentle exercise, veterinary checkup |
| Third Trimester | Weeks 7-9 | Fur growth, final development, puppies prepare for birth | Prepare whelping box, monitor temperature, limit activity |
Prepare a quiet, warm, and comfortable whelping box at least one week before the due date. The box should be large enough for the mother to lie down comfortably with space for puppies. Use clean, washable bedding and place it in a quiet area away from household traffic.
A dog's normal temperature is 101-102.5°F. About 24 hours before labor, her temperature will drop to 98-99°F. Start taking her temperature twice daily during the final week to predict when labor will begin.
Have your veterinarian's contact information readily available, including emergency after-hours numbers. Schedule a prenatal checkup around week 4-5 to confirm pregnancy and discuss any concerns.
Gather clean towels, heating pad, thermometer, puppy milk replacer, feeding bottles, and your veterinarian's phone number. Keep these items near the whelping box for easy access during labor.
Proper nutrition is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. During the first 4-5 weeks, maintain your dog's normal diet. After week 5, gradually increase food intake by 25-50% using high-quality puppy food, which provides extra calories and nutrients. Feed smaller, more frequent meals to accommodate the growing puppies. Always provide fresh water and consult your veterinarian about prenatal supplements.
Breeding Date: January 1, 2024
Gestation Period: 63 days
Expected Due Date: March 4, 2024
Current Date: February 1, 2024
Days Pregnant: 31 days (Week 5)
Days Remaining: 32 days
At week 5, the puppies' organs are developing, and you should start increasing the mother's food intake. Schedule a veterinary checkup to confirm pregnancy and discuss prenatal care.