A pregnancy in dogs can be confirmed by a vet as early as about 3 weeks after mating, but obvious home signs usually show up around 3–4 weeks in.
Vet confirmation timing
- Blood tests that measure pregnancy hormones (like relaxin) and abdominal ultrasound can typically detect pregnancy around day 21–25 after mating.
- An experienced vet may be able to gently feel the gestational sacs in the abdomen from about days 28–35, and X‑rays become useful after about day 45 to see puppy skeletons.
Early signs at home
- Subtle behavior and appetite changes, mild vomiting, and slightly enlarged or darkened nipples may appear around weeks 3–4 after mating.
- Clearer physical signs like a rounder belly and weight gain usually show later, from about week 4–6 onward, and are quite obvious by the last few weeks of the roughly 58–68 day pregnancy.
When to see a vet
- If you suspect your dog may be pregnant, schedule a vet visit about 3 weeks after the possible mating so they can confirm and give specific care advice.
- Go in sooner if your dog seems unwell (severe vomiting, lethargy, discharge with a bad smell, or pain), since these can indicate problems that need urgent care.
