Teddy Dog (detailed introduction)

       Determining whether a dog is pregnant doesn’t seem that simple because unlike us, dogs can experience false pregnancies. When a dog has a false pregnancy, their symptoms are very similar to those of a truly pregnant dog, making it sometimes difficult to distinguish. Therefore, how to determine whether a dog is really pregnant has become a question troubling many people.

       Signs of pregnancy in female dogs appear about a week after mating. Specifically: the female dog's vulva will quickly contract; at three to four weeks of pregnancy, vomiting and loss of appetite may occur as pregnancy symptoms; at 20–30 days of pregnancy, the pregnant dog's mammary glands become prominent, the breasts swell, and the nipples turn a peach-red color. In the fourth week after mating, by touching the abdomen where the uterus is located, embryos about the size of a chicken egg can be felt in pregnant dogs.

       Because it is hard to accurately determine whether a dog is truly pregnant or experiencing a false pregnancy, the best method is to bring the dog to the hospital for an ultrasound to check whether there are puppies in the uterus. Ultrasound examinations are generally affordable, allowing us to confirm whether the dog is really pregnant and thus to plan the next steps for care.

       Nutrition during pregnancy is important; it plays a decisive role in the health of the mother dog, ensuring normal fetal development, preventing miscarriage, and promoting milk secretion. Pregnant dogs should be fed highly nutritious food with increased protein, calories, calcium, and phosphorus in their diet. Pregnant dogs often become sluggish and lethargic; at this time, owners must allow appropriate outdoor activity and ensure the dogs get enough sunlight. Running fast, jumping, going up and down stairs, or fighting with other dogs must be strictly prohibited to avoid miscarriage.

       Therefore, when we are unable to accurately judge whether a dog is really pregnant, the best approach is to take them to the hospital for examination. Then follow the doctor’s advice to learn what should be done during the dog’s pregnancy, including dietary and care precautions.