Shih Tzu Pregnant Symptoms and Preparation

As a Shih Tzu owner, it's essential to recognize the signs of pregnancy in your furry friend. A Shih Tzu typically becomes pregnant after being bred by a male dog, and the gestation period lasts for about 58-68 days.

One of the first noticeable symptoms of pregnancy in Shih Tzus is a slight increase in appetite. This is because the developing puppies require more nutrients for growth.

As the pregnancy progresses, you may notice a slight change in your Shih Tzu's behavior, such as becoming more affectionate and clingy. This is a normal response to the hormonal changes taking place in her body.

A Shih Tzu's nipples will begin to swell and darken in color around the 30th day of pregnancy, preparing for milk production. This is a clear indication that your dog is pregnant.

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If you suspect your Shih Tzu is pregnant, there are several signs and symptoms to look out for. Increased appetite is one of the earliest signs of pregnancy in dogs.

Weight gain is another common symptom, as the puppies grow and develop inside the mother. Swollen nipples and a swollen belly are also indicative of pregnancy.

Some dogs may experience a decrease in appetite for a few days in the first few weeks due to changes in hormones. This is a normal part of the pregnancy process.

You may also notice that your Shih Tzu is more affectionate and tires more easily. Some dogs may exhibit nesting behavior, which can be a sign of impending motherhood.

Here are some common signs of dog pregnancy:

Keep in mind that some of these symptoms can also be signs of illness, so it's essential to have your Shih Tzu checked out by a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.

Dogs are pregnant for approximately 62-64 days, or about two months.

The first month of pregnancy is a critical time for fetal growth, with the fertilized eggs embedding themselves in the lining of the uterine horn at around 15-18 days. Fetal growth is rapid during this period, with these swellings doubling in diameter every 7 days.

By the end of the second month, the puppies are ready to be born, and you'll start to notice significant changes in your dog's body. Her abdomen will increase in size, and she may sway a little as she walks.

As your dog's pregnancy approaches its end, you'll want to prepare for whelping, or puppy birthing. This includes setting up a whelping box, a safe and clean space for your dog to have her puppies.

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Dogs are pregnant for approximately 62-64 days, or about two months.

The timing of a delivery can be difficult to predict because the date of breeding doesn't always match the date of conception.

Fetal growth is rapid during early pregnancy, with the fertilized eggs embedding themselves in the uterine horn at about 15-18 days.

These swellings double in diameter every 7 days, and by the end of the first month, a veterinarian can detect a fetal heartbeat.

The development speeds up into the second month as the embryos develop into recognizable puppies.

As your dog's pregnancy progresses, you'll start to notice some significant changes. Her abdomen will increase in size and may sway a little as she walks. You might even be able to see or feel the puppies moving around inside the mother by the end of the pregnancy.

It's essential to prepare a safe and comfortable space for your dog to give birth. This is called a whelping box, and it should be a quiet area of the house where you can easily access. Whelping boxes can be purchased or made from a small children's plastic swimming pool, and they should be easy for the mother to get in and out of.

To ensure your dog feels comfortable in the whelping box, introduce her to it before the big day. If you don't, she might decide to deliver in a less-than-ideal location, like your closet. Take some time to get her accustomed to the whelping box, and make sure it's warm, draft-free, and easily cleaned.

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Here are some key features to consider when setting up your whelping box:

Having another person with you during the whelping process can be a big help. They can assist with keeping the puppies warm or provide support if you need it. Unless you're an experienced breeder, it's always a good idea to have someone with you to help out.

As a Shih Tzu owner, you're probably wondering how to keep your furry friend healthy and happy during pregnancy. One of the most important things you can do is make sure she receives proper nutrition.

A good quality dog food is key, and if your Shih Tzu is already on a healthy weight, you won't need to make any changes for the first two-thirds of her pregnancy. Increasing food at this stage can actually be harmful.

You'll need to increase her food intake gradually in the last weeks of pregnancy, aiming for 35-to-50 percent more than usual. This can be done by feeding her small, frequent meals to prevent discomfort.

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As your dog's pregnancy progresses, it's essential to ensure she's receiving proper nutrition to support her health and the health of her puppies.

Your dog's regular diet should remain unchanged for the first two-thirds of her pregnancy, unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian.

Increasing her food intake too early can be harmful, so it's crucial to follow your vet's guidance.

As your dog's weight increases in the last weeks of her pregnancy, you'll need to gradually increase her food intake, aiming for 35-to-50 percent more than usual.

Feed her small, frequent meals to prevent discomfort, and consider consulting with your vet for personalized feeding recommendations.

Here's a rough guide to help you plan your dog's meals during the last weeks of pregnancy:

Remember, every dog is different, so it's essential to work closely with your veterinarian to determine the best nutrition plan for your pregnant dog.

As you care for your pregnant dog, it's essential to recognize the signs of illness to ensure she receives prompt veterinary care. Abdominal palpation by a veterinarian can be performed as early as 28-30 days into pregnancy, but it's crucial to do it correctly to avoid damaging the developing puppies.

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Some common signs of illness in pregnant dogs include vomiting and refusal of food, which can be a sign that labor is beginning. If your dog is vomiting during labor, it's essential to provide her with plenty of fresh drinking water to prevent dehydration.

De-worming your pregnant dog with an appropriate medication, such as Fenbendazole, can help reduce the risk of roundworm and hookworms in newborn puppies. This should be done starting on her third trimester, around day 40 of gestation, and continued for about 14 days after whelping.

Regular veterinary visits can help your dog stay healthy during pregnancy, and it's also a good time to discuss planning for a normal birth or cesarean. Your veterinarian may recommend a fecal exam or de-worming medication to prevent intestinal parasites.

Here are some common signs of illness in pregnant dogs:

It's essential to keep an eye out for these signs and seek veterinary care if you notice any unusual symptoms. By being proactive and attentive to your dog's health, you can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and successful whelping.

Excessive licking of the genitals near her due date is a good sign that your dog is going into labor.

This behavior is completely normal in the context of canine labor and is nothing to worry about.

If you're unsure whether or not your dog is pregnant, excessive genital licking may indicate a health problem instead.

Consider your dog's overall health and wellness, as well as her expected due date, to figure out if this is a sign of labor or not.

Your dog may also excessively lick her nipples in preparation for giving birth, which is another normal behavior in the context of canine labor.