How long is a dog pregnant?
Dogs are pregnant for about 63 days from ovulation. Counted from breeding, whelping usually falls between days 58 and 68, because sperm can survive several days waiting for ovulation. If your vet timed ovulation with progesterone tests, count 63 days from the ovulation date for the most accurate result.
Due date = breeding date + 63 days
| Day | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 21 to 28 | Vet can feel the puppies; ultrasound confirms from about day 25 |
| 35 onward | Appetite and weight rise; switch to puppy food gradually |
| 45 onward | X-ray can count skeletons |
| 56 onward | Rectal temperature twice daily; a drop below about 99°F means whelping within 24 hours |
For a cat, use the cat pregnancy calculator.
What are the signs of labor in dogs?
In the last 24 hours she may refuse food, pant, shiver, dig or nest, and her rectal temperature drops below about 99°F. Active labor brings visible contractions; strong, steady straining should produce a puppy within about 30 minutes. Call your vet if it does not.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a dog pregnant?
About 63 days, or nine weeks, with a normal range of 58 to 68 days from breeding.
How can I tell if my dog is pregnant?
A vet can confirm by ultrasound from about day 25, by a relaxin blood test from about day 28, or by X-ray after day 45.
Do small dogs have shorter pregnancies?
Gestation length is similar across breeds. Litter size varies much more than duration.
More gestation calculators
Cow Gestation Calculator
Calving date by breed, with the normal window.
Horse Gestation Calculator
Foaling date with the 320 to 370 day window.
Goat Gestation Calculator
Kidding date for dairy, meat and pygmy goats.
Sheep Gestation Calculator
Lambing date for ewes, with the normal window.
Cat Pregnancy Calculator
Kitten due date and stages of cat pregnancy.
Rabbit Gestation Calculator
Kindling date and nest box date.