How the due date is calculated
A dog's pregnancy is remarkably consistent when counted from ovulation: 63 days, give or take a day or two. The challenge is that few owners know the exact day of ovulation. A female will often accept mating for several days before and after she ovulates. Sperm survives up to a week inside her, and the eggs need about two days to mature after release.
That's why, counting from a mating date, normal whelping can happen anywhere from about 58 to 68 days. If you had more than one mating, enter the first one, and expect the pups toward the later end of the window.
Signs labor is close
- Her rectal temperature drops below about 99°F (37.2°C), usually 12 to 24 hours before labor starts.
- She refuses food, pants, shivers, digs or nests in her whelping box.
- Clear vaginal discharge. Green or black discharge before the first pup means call the vet.
For what to expect each week, read dog pregnancy week by week.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a dog pregnant?
About 63 days (9 weeks) from ovulation. Counted from the mating date, normal pregnancies run anywhere from about 58 to 68 days, because sperm can live in the female for several days and eggs need a couple of days to mature.
How accurate is a dog due date calculator?
From a mating date, expect accuracy within about 5 days either way. With progesterone-timed ovulation, most dogs whelp 62 to 64 days after ovulation. A day-30 ultrasound or an X-ray after day 45 can refine the date.
When can I tell if my dog is pregnant?
A vet ultrasound can confirm pregnancy from around day 25. A blood relaxin test works from about day 28 to 30. Physical changes like a fuller belly and enlarged nipples usually appear after week 5.
What if my dog goes past her due date?
Call your vet if she reaches day 65 to 66 from ovulation, or 68 or more from mating, without signs of labor. Also call if her temperature dropped below 99°F more than 24 hours ago and she has not started labor.