Dog Gestation Calculator

Dog pregnancy averages 63 days. Enter a date to estimate whelping.

Dog gestation at a glance

Average used by this calculator	63 days (about 9 weeks)
Window shown by this calculator	58 to 72 days after breeding
Due date formula	Breeding date + 63 days
Birth is called	Whelping
Early labor signs	Restlessness and intermittent nesting
Young	Puppies

The broad range reflects uncertainty in ovulation timing; Cornell says dystocia may be suspected if pregnancy lasts beyond 70 to 72 days from breeding, so contact your veterinarian if she reaches that point.

Signs whelping is near

Watch behavior as well as body temperature before whelping.

Restlessness
Hiding
Intermittent nesting
Refusing food
Sometimes vomiting
Panting
Trembling
Clear watery discharge
Mammary glands enlarge
Perineum relaxes
Clear or white sac appears at the vulva

Dog pregnancy timeline

About day 18	Embryos implant in the uterus.
Days 25 to 35	Ultrasound is most useful for pregnancy diagnosis.
After day 55	Late pregnancy X-rays are best for counting puppies.
8 to 24 hours before birth	Most dogs show a drop in rectal temperature.

Frequently asked questions

How long is a dog pregnant?

This dog calculator uses 63 days and shows a broad 58 to 72 day dating range after breeding; counted from a known ovulation date, Merck gives 62 to 64 days.

How do I calculate my dog's due date?

Enter the breeding date and the dog calculator adds 63 days for an estimated whelping date, then shows its broad dating range.

What signs show that whelping is near?

A dog may become restless, nest, refuse food or pant before whelping; Merck also describes a temperature drop in most dogs.

When should I call a veterinarian during whelping?

Call your veterinarian immediately if green discharge appears and no puppy follows within 15 to 30 minutes, fetal membranes protrude for more than 15 minutes without delivery, or strong contractions last more than 20 to 30 minutes without a puppy. Cornell also says dystocia may be suspected if pregnancy lasts beyond 70 to 72 days from breeding.