Dog Pregnancy Calculator

The average canine gestation period is 63 days (9 weeks) from ovulation, though this can range from 58–68 days depending on when mating occurred relative to ovulation. A veterinarian can perform progesterone testing to pinpoint ovulation and predict the due date more accurately.

Litter size varies greatly by breed and body size. Small breeds typically have 1–4 puppies, medium breeds 4–6, large breeds 6–10, and giant breeds can have 10+ puppies. An ultrasound at week 4–5 can detect puppies; an X-ray after day 55 can give a more accurate count of skeletons.

Confirm pregnancy at 25–28 days via ultrasound. Get a puppy count X-ray around day 55. Have an emergency vet plan in place before the due date. Signs of trouble during whelping include more than 2 hours between puppies, a puppy stuck in the birth canal, or the mother showing extreme distress.

Switch to a high-quality puppy food (not "large breed" puppy food) from week 4–5 of pregnancy. Puppy food is more calorie-dense and rich in calcium and phosphorus needed for fetal development. Avoid calcium supplements during pregnancy — this can cause dangerous eclampsia (milk fever) after birth.