Dog Due Date Calculator
Estimate your dog's due date and track pregnancy milestones. The average canine gestation period is 63 days (approximately 9 weeks) from ovulation.
Estimated Due Date
Days Remaining
Current Stage
Pregnancy Timeline
Whelping Preparation Checklist
Frequently Asked Questions
How long are dogs pregnant?
The average canine gestation period is 63 days from ovulation, with a normal range of 58-68 days. Smaller breeds may have slightly shorter gestations, while larger breeds may carry longer. Our calculator provides an estimate based on standard veterinary guidelines.
How do I calculate my dog's due date?
Count 63 days from the date of ovulation (or 58-62 days from first mating). If you know both breeding dates, the due date is typically 63-65 days after the first mating or 63 days after the last mating. Use our calculator for an accurate estimate.
What are the first signs of dog pregnancy?
Early signs (2-3 weeks after breeding):
- Decreased appetite or morning sickness
- Nipple enlargement and pinkening
- Increased affection or clinginess
- Lethargy and increased sleep
When can a pregnancy be confirmed?
- Blood test (Relaxin): From day 25-30 of pregnancy
- Ultrasound: From day 25-28
- Palpation: From day 21-28 (vet should perform)
- X-ray: After day 45 (counts puppies)
What are signs that labor is approaching?
- Temperature drop below 99°F (24-48 hours before)
- Restlessness and nesting behavior
- Loss of appetite (24 hours before)
- Milk production (3-5 days before)
- Panting and shivering
What supplies do I need for whelping?
- Whelping box with rails (to prevent crushing)
- Clean towels and blankets
- Heat lamp or heating pad
- Scale for weighing puppies
- Bulb syringe (to clear airways)
- Unwaxed dental floss (for tying cords)
- Iodine solution (for umbilical cords)
- Vet's emergency contact number
How many puppies can a dog have?
Litter size varies by breed:
- Small breeds: 1-5 puppies (average 3)
- Medium breeds: 4-8 puppies (average 6)
- Large breeds: 6-10 puppies (average 8)
- Giant breeds: 8-12+ puppies (average 10)
When should I call the vet during labor?
- No puppies after 24 hours of hard labor
- Strong contractions with no puppy for 30-60 minutes
- Green discharge before first puppy (sign of distress)
- Prolonged resting stage (>4 hours without contractions)
- Signs of extreme pain or distress
How long does labor last in dogs?
Normal labor duration varies: Stage 1 (restlessness, nesting) lasts 6-12 hours. Stage 2 (active delivery) typically takes 1-8 hours, with 15-60 minutes between puppies. Total delivery time usually ranges from 2-12 hours depending on litter size.