Dog Pregnancy Calculator
Plan for your dog's pregnancy with precision
Calculate when your dog is due to give birth with this canine pregnancy calculator. Enter the date of the first mating below and you will be given expected pregnancy dates so you can prepare for whelping.
Expected Due Dates:
The estimated due date is 63 days from the first mating, which is the length of gestation in canines. The expected dates indicate the earliest and latest expected dates of delivery. Dates may vary in some instances.
Your Dog's Pregnancy Timeline:
Dog Pregnancy Calculator
Estimate your dog’s due date easily by entering the mating or ovulation date.
Dogs typically have a gestation period of around 63 days. This tool provides accurate due dates, helping breeders and pet owners track key pregnancy milestones and prepare for whelping.
Important: Always confirm pregnancy and timing with a veterinarian for the most reliable planning.
How to Use the Dog Pregnancy Calculator
Using the dog pregnancy calculator is simple and quick. You need only two inputs: the date of mating or ovulation . The steps are:
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Select the mating or ovulation date:
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Choose the exact day your dog was bred.
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If multiple matings occurred, use the first date.
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Click on “Calculate Due Date”:
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The tool will project the expected delivery window, typically 58–65 days later.
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Review the pregnancy timeline:
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The calculator displays trimester stages, expected fetal development days, and estimated whelping date.
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Tip: Always pair the calculator estimate with veterinary checks like ultrasounds (around day 28) for best accuracy.
What Is the Average Dog Gestation Period?
A dog’s gestation period averages 63 days (9 weeks) after ovulation. However, small variations occur based on several factors:
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Standard Range: 58–65 days
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Smaller Breeds: Often deliver between 58–61 days.
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Larger Breeds: May gestate for up to 65 days.
| Breed Size | Average Pregnancy Length |
|---|---|
| Small breeds | 58–61 days |
| Medium breeds | 60–63 days |
| Large breeds | 61–65 days |
Important: Accurate timing depends on tracking ovulation, not just mating, because sperm can survive inside the female reproductive tract for up to 5 days.
What Is the Dog Pregnancy Timeline and What to Expect at Each Stage?
A dog’s pregnancy progresses through predictable biological stages. Each stage involves crucial fetal developments and physical changes in the mother.
Here is a detailed timeline:
| Stage | Timeframe (Days) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Fertilization | Day 1 | Sperm fertilizes eggs in the fallopian tubes. |
| Embryo Implantation | Days 16–18 | Embryos attach to the uterine lining. |
| Organ Formation | Days 22–30 | Major organs and spinal structures begin forming. |
| Visible Changes | Days 35–45 | Abdomen enlarges; nipples swell and darken. |
| Rapid Fetal Growth | Days 45–58 | Puppies grow rapidly in size and weight. |
| Whelping Preparation | Days 58–65 | Milk production starts; nesting behavior increases. |
Key Point: Ultrasound imaging at day 28–30 can visually confirm pregnancy and monitor embryo development.
Do different breeds have different pregnancy lengths?
Yes, breed type affects gestation length due to size, genetics, and metabolism. While the average is 63 days, breed-specific trends show notable differences:
| Breed | Gestation Range |
|---|---|
| Chihuahua | 58–61 days |
| French Bulldog | 59–62 days |
| Labrador Retriever | 60–64 days |
| German Shepherd | 61–65 days |
| Great Dane | 62–65 days |
Insight:
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Smaller breeds tend to deliver earlier due to faster fetal development.
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Large breeds may carry longer as puppies need more intrauterine growth time.
Note: Always monitor late pregnancies closely. Whelping beyond day 65 may require veterinary intervention.
What Are the Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs?
Dogs show physical and behavioral changes starting around day 21–28. These signs vary by breed and individual temperament but follow consistent patterns.
Physical Signs:
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Nipple enlargement by day 25 (pink, swollen)
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Clear discharge from vulva by day 30
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Visible weight gain after day 35
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Firm abdomen detectable by palpation (vet) at day 28–35
Behavioral Signs:
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Appetite changes (loss early, increase later)
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Nesting behavior after day 45
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Lower energy levels
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Increased affection or clinginess
How to Prepare for a Dog’s Delivery (Whelping) at Home
Being prepared before your dog goes into labor helps reduce stress for both you and your dog. Here’s how to set up a comfortable and safe whelping environment:
1. Create a whelping area:
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Choose a quiet, warm, low-traffic room.
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Use a sturdy whelping box with low sides for easy access.
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Line it with clean towels, newspapers, or washable bedding.
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Keep it away from loud noises, other pets, and bright lights.
2. Monitor her behavior in the final week:
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Look for nesting, restlessness, loss of appetite, and temperature drop (below 37.2°C / 99°F).
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Most dogs prefer privacy during whelping—minimize disturbances.
3. Prepare basic supplies:
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Clean, dry towels
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Disposable gloves
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Blunt-tip scissors (for emergency cord-cutting)
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Antiseptic (povidone-iodine) for umbilical cords
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Digital thermometer
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Heating pad (low setting) or heat lamp (placed safely)
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Vet’s phone number readily available
4. Post-birth care:
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Ensure all puppies start nursing within 2 hours.
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Check the mother for signs of distress, heavy bleeding, or retained placenta.
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Keep the area warm (around 26–28°C for the first week) and draft-free.
When to Visit the Vet During Dog Pregnancy
Regular veterinary visits help monitor the pregnancy and ensure a safe delivery.
| Stage | Reason for Visit |
|---|---|
| Day 21–28 | Ultrasound to confirm pregnancy |
| Day 45+ | X-ray to count puppies and check size |
| Final week | Monitor readiness for whelping and detect complications |
| Post-birth | Examine puppies and mother for any health concerns |
Note: Call your vet immediately if:
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Labor lasts more than 24 hours
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Strong contractions for over 2 hours with no puppy born
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Green/black discharge before the first puppy arrives
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Mother appears lethargic, in pain, or unresponsive
Check Out Our Other Animal Pregnancy Calculators
Looking after more than just dogs? Use our tailored pregnancy calculators for different animals to estimate due dates and plan prenatal care effectively.
Each calculator includes species-specific gestation timelines, signs to watch for, and safe birthing preparation tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bathe my pregnant dog?
Avoid unnecessary stress. If needed, use a damp cloth or vet-approved dry shampoo. Always keep her warm after cleaning.
How many puppies can a dog have?
Most dogs deliver 4–8 puppies, but litter size varies by breed, age, and health.
What should I feed a pregnant dog?
High-quality puppy food (wet or dry) is ideal for its higher protein and calorie content, supporting both the mother and puppies.
My dog is overdue. What should I do?
If your dog hasn’t delivered by day 65, contact your vet—delays could indicate complications.
Can dogs experience false pregnancy?
Yes. Hormonal changes can mimic pregnancy signs, but no puppies develop. A vet can confirm pregnancy with an ultrasound or X-ray.
