How long is the wearing time in dogs? Is there a general statement, even a guideline, or does it depend on different factors such as race, age, height or weight?
The essentials in brief:
- The pregnancy usually lasts 63 days
- The duration varies between 57 and 68 days
- Sperm can survive up to 10 days in the bitch’s body
The wearing time in dogs
Clearly, the question “How long are dogs pregnant” is unfortunately not answered. In fact, some factors play a role during pregnancy. As a rule of thumb one speaks of approximately 58 to 68 days.
Bitches do not necessarily become pregnant immediately after the breeding date. Rather, the male’s sperm can survive for up to ten days before the bitch becomes pregnant. It is also important to consider when the ovulation of the bitch starts. Being covered close to ovulation, the pregnancy of the bitch is correspondingly shorter. Also, the overall constitution of the animal and past pregnancies can influence the wearing time in dogs.
Number of puppies with decisive!
If a bitch expects a large litter or many puppies, the pregnancy can sometimes be shortened by a few days. This is due to the greater effort than a small litter.
The course of pregnancy
The course of pregnancy can be well predicted with the help of the pregnancy calendar of puppy.de . Here only the date of the cover date is queried and one receives following a very detailed and free plan to the course of the pregnancy. Optionally, the name of the father, the mother and the breeder are entered. However, these data are absolutely irrelevant to the process.
Signs of pregnancy
Not every pregnancy in dogs is intentional or planned by humans. Not only for this reason, one should always observe his bitch to perceive changes in behavior early. If it is a possible pregnancy, the following signs could appear within the first one to two weeks:
- The sleeping need of the bitch increases
- She suddenly enjoys extended sunbathing
- She is more cuddly than usual and always cuddles up to her pack
- Your appetite is steadily increasing
Recognize pseudopregnancy!
However, all of these first signs of the bitch’s pregnancy also occur in a pseudopregnancy. Only after about three weeks, dog owners then have certainty, whether it is a pseudo pregnancy or a real pregnancy. Then a clear discharge starts with the bitch. In case of doubt, however, it is always advisable to have your pet examined by a veterinarian.
The course of pregnancy
- Within the first three weeks, it is decided whether the bitch is pregnant or pregnant
- From about 21 days, glassy mucus comes out
- Approximately 30 days after fertilization comes to a tough, milky discharge on the vagina of the bitch
- In the course of the swelling swells, the stomach is fuller
- On the belly the hair slowly falls out
Signs of childbirth
- The bitch will become more restless
- The scraping begins
- The bitch builds a camp and settles there
- She begins to lick the vulva and it comes to excretions
- The bitch starts to pant, her eyes are uncertain
- Frequent swallowing, trembling and whining sets in
Further evidence of the impending birth is a slight drop in temperature (from 38-39 degrees to about 37 degrees) and denial of dog food. Ideally, the temperature is measured regularly before birth, but rectally at least every four to five hours.
The right dog food during pregnancy
Pregnancy is also a strenuous task in dogs. It is therefore all the more important to provide the bitch with the best possible supply of nutrients during this time. Above all, it requires energy and always a bowl of fresh water.
A contemplated change in diet should ideally not be carried out during pregnancy, as the organism of the bitch is already particularly required at this time. It would be more advisable to switch to the right dog food four weeks before the breeding date.
The dog food in pregnancy
Anyone who already feeds high-quality food with many nutrients will lay the first foundation for healthy puppies here. The dog food should not only taste good, but also provide more calories, protein, phosphorus and calcium during pregnancy.
More tips for pregnant bitches
Bitches need a relaxed environment during pregnancy. Therefore, the sporting activities should be shut down and the dog should be given enough rest. The dog bed will probably be the most visited place in the near future . In parallel, the future puppy owners should already worry about the accommodation of the little four-legged friends.
Sufficient blankets, a litter box and possibly color codes should be purchased before the first day, so you will not be surprised by the pregnancy.