By Josie March 20th, 2023
She may also become more lethargic and sleep for longer periods than usual.
A pregnant dog may become more clingy and affectionate.
A pregnant dog may start to refuse certain foods or activities that she once enjoyed, such as going for walks or playing with her toys.
Another common symptom of early pregnancy in dogs is morning sickness - just like in humans.
– Nausea – Vomiting – Loss of appetite – Increased salivation – Lack of energy
Pregnant dogs experience hormonal changes, which could lead to mood swings and bouts of depression.
This is a normal part of the process and should subside within the first few weeks.
You may notice swelling and enlargement around the nipples as early as three weeks into the gestation period.
The nipples will darken and become more prominent during the pregnancy.
The surface of her abdomen should become convex, meaning it curves outward.
About four to five weeks into her pregnancy, you’ll likely notice an abdominal enlargement.
It’s common for pregnant dogs to become less active as they progress through their pregnancies due to fatigue and hormonal changes.
To ensure your dog’s caloric needs are met without overeating, measure each meal and track her daily calorie intake.
As the pregnancy progresses she will need more energy from high-quality puppy food to sustain them.
When you place your hands on either side of her stomach, you should be able to feel rhythmic movements from the puppies inside.