There are a few signs of pregnancy in the dog that you may notice. Pregnancy lasts approximately 63 days. The earliest signs include decreased appetite, a decrease in activity may be noticed, and nipple enlargement. As pregnancy progresses, you may notice an increase in appetite and weight gain. In late term pregnancy the abdomen will increase in size, you may even see or feel the puppies move about, and milk production may begin. Imminent signs of delivery include change in behaviour, restlessness and nesting. The mother’s temperature will drop 1-2 degrees Celsius 24 hours before whelping. Licking at the genital area is not generally noticed. If your dog is licking the genital and perineal area excessively, it may be that she is in heat or due to pain, or infection or disease of the urogenital system. Other signs of heat include attractiveness to males, redness and swelling of the vulva, calling, and raised hindquarters. Signs of urogenital infection include straining to urinate, frequent urination, foul smelling odour, general malaise and illness like lethargy, fever, and inappetance. If you see any of these signs, you should call your veterinarian.
