If you are considering breeding your Toy Poodle or perhaps a breeding does take place without you realizing it, it is important to know the signs of pregnancy to help you determine if Fido is indeed in the family way.
Early signs include:
Behavioral changes. Behavioral changes can be noticed in pregnant dogs. These changes include nesting behavior (attempting to make a nest by tearing up papers, blankets, etc.), mothering activity (mothering of shoes, toys, etc.) or an expressed desire to be left alone.
Decreased activity. A pregnant dog may exhibit decrease in activity as they will easily feel exhausted because of changes in hormone levels.
Decreased appetite. The decreased appetite in dogs is equivalent to a human's morning sickness. However, not all pregnant dogs go through this - only a small percentage of dogs experience decrease in appetite during the first few weeks of gestation.
Mammary gland enlargement. Enlargement of the mammary gland is a good indicator of pregnancy. The mammary glands may become large in preparation for milk production.
Progressing signs include:
Increase in appetite. After three to four weeks, increase in appetite is usually noted. The dog will start to gain weight rapidly.
Increase in appetite. After three to four weeks, increase in appetite is usually noted. The dog will start to gain weight rapidly.
Abdominal enlargement. The dog's abdomen will thicken and firm to the touch.
Later signs include:
Puppy movement. During the last weeks of pregnancy, you will be able to feel the puppy movement because the babies are getting into position for birth.
Milk production. Before the labor, colostrum (first milk) can be gently expressed or leaks on its own from the nipples.
Dog pregnancy usually lasts for about 62 days from the date the breeding occurred. But take note that the puppies may be delivered as early as 58 days or as late as 65 days. During this period, it is a great idea to feed your pregnant dog with a formulated and premium dog food. It is also important to increase the amount of food to ensure that there is enough for both dog and the puppies. While some consider giving their pets vitamin supplements, the process is still debatable. Fresh water should also be available all the time and moderate amount of exercise should be provided as well. Owners should as well remember that veterinary attention is important to help you care for your pregnant Toy Poodle.
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