How long is a dog pregnant?

The average canine gestation is approximately 63 days from conception, with a normal range of 58–68 days. Because pinpointing the exact moment of conception is difficult, due dates should be treated as estimates. Veterinary X-ray in the final week gives a more reliable sense of how close to term the litter is.

When do dogs start showing signs of pregnancy?

Most dogs show no visible signs until around weeks 4–5, when the abdomen begins to enlarge and appetite increases noticeably. Some dogs experience mild early signs (reduced appetite, mild lethargy) in weeks 3–4, but many show nothing until the physical growth of the litter becomes apparent.

How much should I feed my pregnant dog?

During the first half of pregnancy, a pregnant dog's calorie needs are close to maintenance. From approximately week 5 or 6 onward, food intake typically increases gradually — many references suggest an increase of around 25–50% above maintenance by late pregnancy. Smaller, more frequent meals help accommodate the compressed abdomen in late pregnancy. A puppy-formula food (calorie-dense and nutritionally complete) is commonly recommended from this point.

Is it safe to deworm or vaccinate a pregnant dog?

This depends on the specific product. Some dewormers are considered safe during pregnancy; others are not. Vaccination protocols during pregnancy vary — some vaccines are not recommended during pregnancy, while certain core vaccines may be given if protection is urgently needed. Always check with your vet before giving any medication or vaccine to a pregnant dog.

What is nesting behavior in dogs, and when does it start?

Nesting is a natural pre-whelping behavior where a dog seeks out a quiet, enclosed space and begins rearranging bedding or other soft materials to create a den. It typically starts in the final 1–2 weeks of pregnancy, often intensifying in the 24–48 hours before labor begins. Setting up a whelping box early gives the dog time to become comfortable in it.

Dog Pregnancy Week by Week | PetCalculator

A dog's pregnancy lasts around 63 days — about nine weeks of rapid physical and behavioral change. Here is a week-by-week guide to what to expect, and the prenatal care checkpoints that matter most.