Domestic dogs generally have two breeding cycles a year. Female dogs have two fertile ‘seasons’ when they become interested in male dogs. If your dog mates with an unneutered male during that time, she might become pregnant.

What to look for

Dogs are pregnant for 63 days, but your dog won’t show any obvious signs of pregnancy until about three weeks in. This is when she may start to put on weight and her nipples may become more prominent.

You may not notice any weight gain until the last third of the pregnancy, about six or seven weeks in. This is especially true if your dog is a little overweight or a naturally chunky breed.

You may also find your dog:

• gets tired more quickly
• starts to be more clingy and needy
• becomes less tolerant of other dogs or children
• shows signs of ‘nesting’ – gathering blankets or toys
• becomes destructive.

If you suspect your dog is pregnant

Book a visit to the vet to confirm. Your vet will also be able to give you advice on how to care for your dog if she’s expecting puppies. She’ll need a nutritious diet, parasite treatment and a stress-free environment to bring them into the world.

If your dog has only recently mated, there may be time to prevent a pregnancy. So contact your vet as soon as possible.

A dog having puppies is not something to take lightly. This has risks for your dog. It can also be expensive and stressful. You will need to care for the pups until they’re eight weeks old and then find responsible new homes for them all.