Mon, 02/22/2010 - 11:18
Dog pregnancy is a very serious issue. It's something that a lot of people struggle with figuring out, and if 'diagnosed' incorrectly by an owner, could be harmful to the dog. In conjunction with this people typically want to know how to care for a pregnant dog, what to feed them, if and how their behavior changes, etc. I think it'd be great to have some additional information on how to tell if your dog is pregnant so that those searching find something useful 
All comments are appreciated!
IMO, if your dog is pregnant it should be because it's been bred and you want puppies.
Otherwise you dog should be spayed. There is less risk of mammory cancer and you don't have to deal with a bitch in heat.
Spay/Neuter your pet!
But back on topic, as Prophet said it's very hard for even the experienced breeder to tell. My trainer, breeds her dogs, and they go in for ultrasounds afew weeks later. Although sometimes you can tell when they get pudgy in tuck.
Yes, if your dog is pregnant it should be a planned breeding and should ONLY be done to improve the BREED of dog that you are breeding (please spay and neuter any mixes and purebreds that will not help to keep the breed strong: and test for any and all genetic problems that might be there and can be checked for)
but, just because a dog puts on weight, gets pudgy, produces milk, nests, etc. you still are not positive that they are pregnant (false pregnancies) w/out doing an ultra sound at about 3 wks in and i HIGHLY recommend at about 6 wks as well, as i have heard of instances where nothing was found early on but then the bitch has pups....every owner should be TOTALLY aware of when their bitch was in season (which lasts for 3 wks) and around the 2nd wk (not put in concrete) they will accept the male (this for the people that don't know; not trying to be a "know it all", folks)......when a bitch is in heat please--KEEP HER LOCKED UP AND UNDER SUPERVISION......
Unfortunately, there is no clear visual way to tell if your dog is pregnant, unless you are very experienced...especially early on in the pregnancy. Thus, it's best to take your dog to a vet if there is any question. That can probably go without saying. Or, if you're a new pup owner you could have your dog spayed before her first cycle, and remove all doubt or future worries. The last time I saw a dog give birth, I was five years old...so care tips, during and after pregancy, I don't have.