🐾 Dog Pregnancy Calculator

The average canine gestation period is 63 days from ovulation, but it can range from 57 to 65 days from breeding. Unlike humans, dog pregnancy is very short — about 9 weeks. The exact duration depends on the timing of ovulation and fertilization, which is why tracking the breeding date is important. Always consult your vet to confirm the due date, especially if you're unsure of the exact breeding date.

Around day 21–25 (week 3-4), a veterinarian can palpate the abdomen to feel the developing embryos. By day 25–30, an ultrasound can detect fetal heartbeats, which is the most reliable early confirmation method. X-rays can count puppies from day 45–55 (week 7-8), once the fetal skeletons have calcified. Home pregnancy tests for dogs are not reliable — always see your vet for confirmation.

During the first 4 weeks, feed a high-quality adult maintenance diet. From week 5 onward, switch to a high-quality puppy food (which has more calories, protein, and calcium) and gradually increase portions. By week 9, she may eat 30–50% more than usual. Feed smaller, more frequent meals if she has morning sickness or feels bloated. Always provide fresh water. Shop puppy food →

Set up the whelping box around day 50–55 (week 7-8). Place it in a quiet, draft-free area with good visibility. Line it with clean towels or blankets that can be easily washed and replaced. The box should have raised sides to prevent puppies from crawling out but low enough for the mother to enter and exit comfortably. Introduce your dog to the box gradually so she feels safe in it before labor begins. Shop whelping boxes →

Signs of impending labor include: drop in body temperature below 100°F (37.8°C) — this happens 12–24 hours before labor; restlessness, panting, and nesting behavior; loss of appetite; shivering or trembling; and visible contractions. Stage 1 labor (cervical dilation) lasts 6–12 hours. Stage 2 (active delivery) follows, with puppies usually born 30–60 minutes apart. Contact your vet immediately if your dog has been in active labor for more than 2 hours without delivering a puppy.

Litter size varies greatly by breed. Small breeds like Chihuahuas average 2–3 puppies, medium breeds like Beagles average 5–7, and large breeds like Golden Retrievers average 7–10. A dog's first litter is typically smaller than subsequent litters. The only reliable way to count puppies before birth is through X-rays at day 45–55. Keep in mind that X-ray counts can sometimes be off by one or two puppies.