How To Tell If Your Border Collie Is Pregnant? (Signs & Tips)

How To Tell If Your Border Collie Is Pregnant

Expecting a new puppy is exciting for both you and your dog.

Whether you are intentionally breeding your dog or not, there are a few signs to tell if your dog is pregnant.

Like humans, dogs have a fertile period too.

This period is known as “being in heat“, taking place every 8 months and can last up to a month.

Pregnancy in dogs typically lasts for about 9 weeks (between 58 to 68 days).

 

Unfortunately, there are no home tests to find out if your dog is pregnant.

However, there are some signs you can look out for.

Wondering if your Border Collie is pregnant?

Read on to find out some signs to look out for and tips to help!

 

Signs of Border Collie Pregnancy

border collie

As most dogs do not show signs of pregnancy during the first few weeks, it may be hard to determine if they are pregnant at an early stage.

Typically, signs will start showing along their second trimester.

 

1. Weight Gain and Vomiting

While uncommon, your Border Collie may have nausea and vomiting in their second trimester due to hormonal changes.

During this time, they may gain weight slowly, with their weight gain being noticeable by day 35.

If your Border Collie vomits and loses her appetite during her pregnancy, it is important not to force her to eat.

Most dogs would not skip more than a day or two without eating.

However, if she has not eaten for three days in a row, you should consult your vet.

As her appetite will fluctuate throughout her pregnancy, be prepared to alter her eating accordingly.

 

2. Decrease in Activity

If your Border Collie is normally energetic, a sudden decrease in energy may be a sign that she is pregnant.

Dogs too feel tired as their hormone level changes when pregnant.

This decrease in activity can begin as early as two weeks into her pregnancy and may change as she adapts to her pregnancy.

 

3. Breast Development

As she starts her pregnancy journey, your dog may develop breasts.

This means that her milk glands beneath her nipples are developing.

During this time, her nipples may also change colour, becoming more pinky-grey.

This is due to an increase in blood flow around that area.

Changes in pregnant dogs breasts typically start around 25 to 30 days into her pregnancy.

 

4. Vaginal Discharge

While this is not an early sign of pregnancy, your dog may get a vaginal discharge at one point.

While it is normal, there are certain types of vaginal discharge that are unusual, including:

  • Bloody discharge
  • Mucus with blood
  • Mucus that is not clear or slightly cloudy
  • Mucus with a bad odour

 

If you notice that your dogs’ vaginal is unusual, consult your vet immediately.

 

How Will I Know If My Dog Is Pregnant?

dog ultrasound

If you suspect that your dog is pregnant, you should visit your local vet for a proper diagnosis.

There, you will be able to know more about your dog’s pregnancy journey.

During your visit, your vet may take an ultrasound and x rays to confirm your suspicion.

 

 

Tips

Once you know that your dog is pregnant, there are many steps you can take to ensure that she is healthy and comfortable during the process.

 

1. Nutrition

Giving your dog good nutrition is important to ensure that she and her pups are healthy.

Provide her with good quality dog food and ensure that she is at a healthy weight.

During her pregnancy, you may need to alter the amount of food you provide her with every week.

Slowly increase her intake and feed her small frequent meals to ensure she is comfortable.

You can also consult your vet on what food you should provide her with.

 

2. Exercise

While it is important that she does not do strenuous exercise while pregnant, you should still provide her with ample exercise.

Bringing her on walks is beneficial for her to keep her energy up.

 

 

Learn More:

 

 

3. Vet Visits

Regular check-ups at the vet are necessary, and especially so, if your dog is pregnant.

Ensure that she has her vaccinations and exams to ensure that your dog is healthy when carrying her pups.

During these visits, you also have the opportunity to ask your vet any questions regarding her pregnancy and what to do when she is in labour.

 

4. Preparation

Before her labour, you may notice her beasts and abdomen increase in size, and even feel her puppies in her belly.

During this time, you should prepare for her labour.

You can help by creating a whelping box for when she gives birth.

This whelping box is a safe and easily cleaned location created for your dog to give birth.

 

Towards the end of her pregnancy, you should get her accustomed to the box.

You can talk to your vet for more information on how to help with her labour process what is needed after the process.

Towards the end of her pregnancy, watch for signs of her labour.

 

Some signs include:

  • Heavy panting
  • Drop in rectal temperature
  • Loss of appetite

 

Overall Thoughts

Having a pregnant dog is exciting — remember to look out for some symptoms that may show that she is pregnant.

It is important to keep an eye out for these symptoms early so you will understand what they need.

 

If she is, all you will need to do is:

  • Ensure that she is comfortable
  • Keep her stress to a minimum
  • Provide her with ample nutrition

 

Remember to consult your vet to know more about your dog’s pregnancy too.

 

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Russel

A pet owner who loves to share useful facts and information about a variety of animals.