Canine Due Date Calculator
Estimate your dog's expected delivery date based on breeding dates and get a detailed pregnancy timeline.
Understanding Canine Pregnancy
Dog pregnancy typically lasts between 58-68 days from ovulation, with an average of 63 days. The exact due date depends on several factors including breeding dates and the female's ovulation timing.
Key Facts About Dog Pregnancy
- Gestation period: 58-68 days (average 63 days)
- Litter size varies by breed (1-12+ puppies)
- Smaller breeds tend to have smaller litters
- First signs appear around day 21-28
- Ultrasound can confirm pregnancy at day 25-35
- X-rays best for counting puppies after day 45
| Breed Size | Average Gestation | Typical Litter Size | First Visible Signs | Whelping Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small (under 20 lbs) | 60-63 days | 1-4 puppies | Day 21-25 | 2-6 hours |
| Medium (20-50 lbs) | 62-64 days | 4-8 puppies | Day 25-28 | 3-12 hours |
| Large (50-90 lbs) | 63-65 days | 6-10 puppies | Day 28-32 | 4-24 hours |
| Giant (over 90 lbs) | 64-68 days | 8-12+ puppies | Day 30-35 | 6-36 hours |
Canine Pregnancy Timeline
Week 1-2 (Days 1-14)
- Fertilization occurs in oviducts
- Embryos travel to uterus
- No visible changes
Week 3 (Days 15-21)
- Embryos implant in uterine wall
- Possible morning sickness (days 18-21)
- Appetite may decrease
Week 4 (Days 22-28)
- Vet can detect pregnancy via ultrasound
- Nipples enlarge and darken
- Appetite increases
Week 5 (Days 29-35)
- Weight gain becomes noticeable
- Abdomen begins to enlarge
- Increased urination
Week 6 (Days 36-42)
- Fetal skeletons visible on X-ray after day 45
- Clear abdominal enlargement
- Mammary glands develop
Week 7 (Days 43-49)
- Puppy movement may be felt
- Nest building behavior may start
- Increased rest time
Week 8 (Days 50-57)
- Milk production may begin
- Temperature monitoring should start
- Prepare whelping area
Week 9 (Days 58-65)
- Delivery typically occurs
- Temperature drops 24 hours before labor
- Restlessness and nesting behavior
Breeding Methods Comparison
Natural Breeding
- Dogs mate naturally
- Multiple breedings over heat period
- Requires careful timing
- Lower conception rates
AI (Artificial Insemination)
- Veterinary-assisted procedure
- Higher success with fresh/chilled semen
- Good for long-distance breeding
- More expensive
Progesterone-Timed Breeding
- Blood tests determine ovulation
- Most accurate timing
- Higher conception rates
- Requires veterinary support
Frequently Asked Questions About Canine Pregnancy
How accurate is this due date calculator?
It provides a good estimate based on average gestation periods. For most accurate results, use ovulation date if known. Natural variation means actual delivery may occur ±3 days from estimate.
What are the first signs of pregnancy in dogs?
Early signs include decreased appetite (weeks 2-3), then increased appetite (week 4), nipple enlargement (week 3-4), and behavioral changes like increased affection or lethargy.
When can a vet confirm pregnancy?
Ultrasound can detect puppies by day 25-35. Palpation may detect changes at day 21-28. X-rays show skeletal development best after day 45.
How many puppies will my dog have?
Litter size varies by breed, age, and individual dog. X-ray after day 45 can count skeletons. Small breeds average 1-4, large breeds 6-12.
Should I change my dog's diet during pregnancy?
Yes, gradually switch to high-quality puppy food by week 5. Increase food by 10% weekly from week 6. Divide into multiple small meals as abdomen enlarges.
When should I prepare the whelping area?
Set up by week 7 to allow your dog to get accustomed. Choose quiet, private location with easy clean-up. Include whelping box with rails to prevent crushing.
What supplies do I need for whelping?
Essentials include: whelping box, heat lamp, clean towels, scale, thermometer, hemostats, bulb syringe, dental floss, and emergency vet contact.
How will I know when labor starts?
Signs include: nesting behavior, restlessness, panting, temperature drop (below 99°F), loss of appetite, and vulvar discharge. Stage 1 labor lasts 6-12 hours.
When should I be concerned during delivery?
Seek vet help if: strong contractions for 30+ minutes without puppy, >2 hours between puppies, green discharge without puppy, or signs of distress.
How long after birth should puppies nurse?
Puppies should nurse within 2 hours. Colostrum (first milk) is vital for immunity. Monitor weight gain - they should gain 5-10% daily.
Using This Calculator
For best results with our canine due date calculator:
- Enter exact breeding dates if known
- Include ovulation date if available (most accurate)
- Monitor temperature starting at day 55
- Have vet confirm pregnancy
- Prepare whelping supplies in advance