subject: Can You Tell If Your Dog Is Pregnant? [print this page] No matter how much a dog owner "guards" the pet, the possibility that it can get pregnant cannot be avoided as long as the pet is not spayed. Dogs in heat emit a distinct odor that entices male dogs to come so that short of keeping the pet under lock and key, pet owners would find it very hard to prevent the pet from getting pregnant. The dog in heat will break away from the leash, dig tunnels and jump over a high fence just to be with the male dog. Pregnant dogs, similar to pregnant humans would need to be monitored carefully to lessen pregnancy complications that can put the life of the pet as well as the puppies at risk. So how can you tell if the beloved pooch is about to gift you with cuddly puppies?
A vet can best confirm the pet's pregnancy. Pregnancy kits, blood tests or ultra sounds are tools and methods used by a vet to accurately diagnose the pet's condition. Dog experts or dog breeders though can tell if the dog is pregnant by observing the changes in the behavior and in the body of the dog.
Similar to the difference in personalities, dogs would show different pregnancy symptoms. Your pet may or may not show telltale sign of pregnancy. Generally though, pregnant dogs will show disinterest in food. You know that your pet is a voracious eater. Similar to pregnant humans, a pregnant dog may be off food and may have morning sickness as well. As the pregnancy progresses, the dog that had very little interest in food would start to crave food so that the pet would seem to be always ravenous.
Dogs are very energetic animals but pregnant ones would be somewhat lethargic. The once very energetic pet that would jump up and down every time you open the door will appear to be lethargic. Dogs are sweet animals but pregnant pets would be more affectionate to their human family. Due to hormonal change, the dog would constantly crave for the attention of the master.
After a few weeks you will notice the dog gaining weight not only because its appetite has returned but also because of the growing puppies. Apart from the increase in the size of the abdomen, the nipple will enlarge as well as the pregnant pet gets ready to nurse the puppies. Dramatic change will be noticed as the flesh of the growing puppies will make the abdomen firm to the touch. When the delivery is apparent, the dog's vulva will start to swell. The dog will gather the necessary things to prepare its delivery room.
