How Long Are Dogs Pregnant? Timeline, Stages, and Signs

If your dog is pregnant, or you’re planning to breed, one of the first questions you may have is: how long does pregnancy last in dogs? Understanding the typical timeline and what to expect can help you prepare for your dog’s whelping (birthing) process with confidence.

Quick Snippets

Dogs are pregnant for about 63 days, or nine weeks, on average.
Both small and large breeds share the same pregnancy length.
Puppies born before 58 days are usually premature and may need urgent care.
A sudden temperature drop and nesting behavior signal that labor is near.

How long is pregnancy in dogs?

A dog’s pregnancy typically lasts about 63 days from ovulation. In general, the range is 58–68 days.

It’s important to note that predicting the exact due date can be difficult. The day of breeding is not always the day your dog becomes pregnant. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days, and the eggs need time to mature before fertilization can occur. Because of this, there can be variation in the timeline.

If your veterinarian tracks ovulation through blood tests measuring progesterone levels, the expected due date can be predicted much more accurately.

Can my veterinarian predict the due date?

Yes. Your veterinarian has several ways to help estimate when your dog will give birth:

Progesterone testing: This hormone rises before ovulation and drops sharply about 24 hours before labor begins.
Ultrasound: Around the midpoint of pregnancy, ultrasound can confirm pregnancy and give an estimate of puppy development.
X-rays: Later in pregnancy, X-rays may be used to count puppies and assess their size.

These tools can be especially helpful if you are unsure of the breeding date.

What are the stages of pregnancy?

Although each dog is different, pregnancy is often divided into three main phases:

Early stage (weeks 1–3): Fertilization occurs. You may not notice any physical changes at this point.
Middle stage (weeks 4–6): The fetuses develop quickly. Your dog’s belly may begin to round, and her appetite often increases.
Final stage (weeks 7–9): Puppies grow rapidly. Nesting behavior is common, and your dog may begin producing milk. In the last few days, appetite may decrease as labor approaches.

What are the signs my dog is pregnant?

Signs of pregnancy can vary, but may include:

Enlarged or darker nipples
A slightly swollen belly
Increased appetite after the first few weeks
Changes in behavior, such as being more affectionate or sometimes more reserved
A shift in energy levels

Because these signs can overlap with other health conditions, the most reliable way to confirm pregnancy is through a veterinary exam.

When should I call the vet?

Contact your veterinarian if you notice any of the following:

Your dog seems unwell or refuses food for more than 1 day
She shows signs of pain or distress during pregnancy
More than 70 days have passed since breeding with no signs of labor
Labor begins but no puppy is delivered within 1–2 hours of strong contractions

How can I prepare for the puppies’ arrival?

Preparation makes a big difference. Consider the following:

Create a whelping area: A quiet, comfortable box or pen lined with clean blankets.
Gather supplies: Keep clean towels, disposable gloves, and your vet’s phone number nearby.
Adjust her diet: Pregnant dogs often need more calories, particularly in the second half of pregnancy. Ask your vet about the best food for this stage.

Important note (How Long Are Dogs Pregnant)

Every pregnancy is different. While most dogs deliver healthy puppies without complications, some may need extra care. If you are ever unsure about how things are progressing, it is always safest to reach out to your veterinarian.