How many puppies can a husky give birth to for the first time?

West Siberian Laika in heat

The first heat of a female West Siberian husky occurs at 6 – 12 months. It takes place twice a year (there are exceptions) and lasts from 7 to 28 days (on average two weeks). At this time, the bitch can become pregnant.

The cycle is experienced in 4 stages:

Males during this period are interested in females, but without reciprocity.

The bitch becomes favorable to the representatives of the “stronger sex”, conception is possible. If you touch the lady's tail, she moves it to the side and lifts her pelvis.

The bitch stops letting males in. At the beginning of this period, false pregnancy is possible.

from 100 to 160 days

Ovarian activity decreases. There are no significant external signs.

Peculiarities of the course of pregnancy in female huskies.

Traditionally, cynologists begin counting pregnancy in huskies from the date of the last mating. Although professionals recommend taking into account the first mating. The initial period lasts about 30-35 days. This period is characterized by a complete absence of external signs. The belly enlarges approximately three weeks before whelping. Two weeks before whelping, the nipples swell.

It is worth considering that in young bitches who have bred for the first or second time, often the first signs of pregnancy appear only 40-45 days after its onset. In this situation, it is better to try to determine the presence of embryos by palpation. Pupping of female huskies lasts 63-65 days. The maximum period for the birth of viable puppies was 72 days, and the minimum period was 54 days. A litter can have from 1 to 11 puppies.

Pregnancy of the West Siberian Laika

According to the rules of the Belarusian Canine Association, West Siberian Laika females are allowed for breeding from 18 months, males - from 15 months.

“Pregnancy is for health” is one of the most dangerous myths of many owners!

Pregnancy is not a healing process. This is a lot of stress and strain on the immune system and internal organs. Therefore, only a perfectly healthy dog ​​should give birth.

As a rule, the pregnancy of the West Siberian Laika lasts 63 days. The maximum difference is from 53 to 71 days, in which case the puppies are born viable.

1. At an early stage (the first 3 weeks after mating) it is impossible to determine whether the bitch is pregnant.

2. At the 4th week, using ultrasound, you can estimate the approximate number of puppies.

3. At the 5th week, the sides become more convex (sometimes the sign is absent until the 7th week), the skin of the nipples becomes lighter.

4. At the 6th week, puppies can be palpated. After this, the size of the fruit increases, the nipples become softer and larger.

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It’s better if the palpation is carried out by a veterinarian; you can damage the fruit yourself.

During pregnancy, the dog should move, but not become overtired. The expectant mother should not be disturbed unless absolutely necessary, take long trips by car or public transport, or be kept in a noisy, cramped room. If during pregnancy your dog's condition suddenly changes, he begins to refuse to eat, his temperature rises, or there is discharge from the genitals, you should consult a veterinarian.

The second half of pregnancy may be characterized by minor mucous discharge. The discharge becomes abundant, yellowish or greenish - this means that labor is approaching. 1–2 days before giving birth, the dog begins to worry, whine, lick the genitals, and scratch the walls or floor. Pulse, breathing, and urination increase. The dog refuses food and drinks constantly.

False pregnancy of the West Siberian husky

False pregnancy is common in dogs of all breeds. This is the name for the psycho-physiological state of a bitch that has not been fertilized, but still shows signs of pregnancy. In this case, the dog diligently arranges a “nest” and may even experience something similar to contractions. As a rule, false pregnancy is observed in dogs with irregular matings and is associated with hormonal development disorders.

If a dog is sterilized, false pregnancy does not occur!

If the bitch begins to show signs of a false pregnancy, it is necessary to remove the toys. Self-licking of nipples increases the symptoms of false pregnancy. This can be prevented by putting a collar and blanket on the dog. Limit your protein intake.

If the bitch is showing aggression, extreme agitation, or developing physical problems (such as mastitis), medication will be needed. Contact your veterinarian.

False pregnancy may be a symptom of a disease (hypothyroidism or liver dysfunction).

If there are frequent strong manifestations of false pregnancy, you should contact the clinic for examination. Most likely, you will be asked to donate blood for biochemistry and hormones.

Births of the West Siberian Laika

It is necessary to prepare everything you need in advance. The “birthing room” should be warm, ventilated and calm, as well as comfortable for people - you will spend quite a lot of time there. A week before the expected birth, move the bitch to the “delivery room”, she should get used to this place.

Prepare a box for newborns (special beds are available for sale). You will also need: infrared heating lamp, disposable diapers, heating pad or plastic bottle with warm water, cotton wool, cotton rags, towels (8 pieces), hand wash, thermometer, milk replacer, bottle and pacifiers, muzzle, collar, leash, glucose solution.

Keep your veterinarian's phone number visible.

A day before the event, the West Siberian husky refuses to eat, and its body temperature drops. The bitch becomes restless, tears up the bedding and makes a nest.

When labor begins, call your veterinarian and let him be on call just in case. Put a collar on the bitch. Next, your task is to sit quietly and not fuss. You can do yoga or meditate.

Stages of labor

about 12 -24 hours

The cervix relaxes and dilates, mucus comes out, contractions without pushing, the temperature is lowered

The dog is worried, often changes its position, looks back at its stomach, breathing is rapid, vomiting is acceptable

normal up to 24 hours

The amniotic fluid recedes, the temperature returns to normal, the abdominal walls are tense, contractions are combined with pushing, puppies emerge from the birth canal

The dog stops worrying, breathes quickly, lies down in one place, strains, after the fetus comes out, breaks the placenta and licks the puppy

The afterbirth comes out from either the placenta or the baby part of the placenta. Usually, after the birth of a puppy, the placenta comes out within 10-15 minutes. Sometimes several come out, after 2-3 puppies.

The bitch tries to eat all the afterbirth, do not allow her to do this. One or two is the maximum, otherwise there may be intoxication (diarrhea, vomiting).

A West Siberian husky puppy is born in a “package” - a transparent film called the afterbirth. Usually the bitch tears it herself and eats it. Don't be alarmed - this is normal, she won't eat the puppy.

Do not allow the bitch to eat the afterbirth if it is greenish-black in color with a putrid odor.

Keep track of the number of afterbirths, there should be as many as there were puppies. Sometimes the afterbirth may remain inside and only come out at the end of labor.

A West Siberian husky puppy can be born while the bitch is standing. It falls to the ground, but it's usually harmless. Intervention is only justified if the mother is in shock, ignores the cubs, or attacks them. In this case, call an experienced breeder - he will tell you what to do.

What factors influence gestational age

The gestational period of pets varies in length. The breed of the bitch depends on how long pregnancy lasts in dogs. In addition, the gestation period is affected by:

• past number of gestations. The duration of gestation for puppies in a dog that becomes pregnant for the first time is five to eight days longer;
• age of the animal. Young bitches usually give birth on time. Older animals often whelp several days later than expected;
• trauma and pathology. Puppies may be born prematurely due to illness or injury during pregnancy;
• lack of nutrients and inorganic substances. All accumulated beneficial microelements in the mother’s body will be used for the growth and development of the fetus. Therefore, their deficiency can lead to premature birth and pathologies in babies.

Pregnancy of a pet is a crucial moment

Dog pregnancy periods

Most often, a dog's pregnancy lasts from 60 to 63 days. In some cases, this period can reach 72-73 days. The range of pregnancy periods depends primarily on the individual characteristics of the dog.

Many dogs experience toxicosis during pregnancy. At the same time, appetite can either increase or disappear, but eating is usually accompanied by gag reflexes.

The viability of born puppies is usually not related to the length of the gestation period. Healthy puppies can appear both earlier and later than standard indicators. The main role in this case is played by the health of the dog itself.

The reasons for the non-viability of the offspring are, as a rule, the unpreparedness of the dog, injuries or bruises received during pregnancy, improper care of the owner or his inattention. If puppies do not appear after 73 days of pregnancy, then surgical intervention is performed.

How long does pregnancy last in dogs: daily norm

The onset of the natural physiological process that completes pregnancy is considered safe from 53 to 71 days. Childbirth earlier or later than the specified interval often ends in the birth of sick offspring or the death of puppies.

For your information! Prematurely born puppies may have problems breathing on their own; if they remain in the womb, they will face intoxication and lack of oxygen.

Many dog ​​breeders, when planning to breed their pets, are faced with the question of how long pregnancy lasts in dogs, how it proceeds and how to give birth. And these factors depend directly on the breed of the pet and its size.

In small

The biological process of development of a fertilized egg in the bitch’s body is individual. Pregnancy in small dogs lasts 59-61 days from the moment of conception.

Small dogs are characterized by multiple births. Since carrying a large number of embryos in the uterus will cause discomfort, in order to avoid inflammation of the digestive organs, the feeding of your pet should be adjusted. Meals should be frequent, but high in calories.

Important! It is impossible to overfeed small females during the gestation period, since it will be very difficult for an overweight animal to give birth.

A mandatory requirement for keeping cocker spaniels, dachshunds, Yorkshire terriers, Spitz dogs, chihuahuas, and small mongrels is constant access to water. The liquid in a pregnant woman’s bowl needs to be changed two to three times a day. In addition, the animal should be given microelements, vitamins, and amino acids designed specifically for the existing breed.

It is important to take into account that from the moment of mating, a complex indicator of the thermal state of the dog’s body drops by several degrees. Therefore, for rest and sleep, she needs to build a warm bedding. For miniature breeds with fine hair, you will have to turn on the heaters or dress the dogs in special clothes.

Pregnancy in small breed dogs

In medium breeds

In the first year of their life, medium-sized knots do not grow as rapidly as large ones. Therefore, they enter puberty a little later. However, their life expectancy is much longer, and in old age they develop fewer chronic diseases.

Note! The gestational period for medium-sized females usually lasts up to nine weeks.

The following can affect how long pregnant dogs (hounds, pit bulls, huskies, huskies, German shepherds, Dobermans or setters walk) walk:

• congenital or acquired pathologies;
• hormonal dysfunction;
• intense physical activity and weight loss;
• overweight;
• wounds;
• the age at which active aging of the dog’s body begins.

Pregnancy in medium breed dogs occurs without consequences

What is the length of pregnancy in large breed dogs?

Pet owners who do not have sufficient experience and who are caring for a future mother in labor do not know how long dogs carry puppies. The exact duration of gestation depends on the size of the animal. In large bitches, the end of the natural physiological process also depends on the number of fetuses gestated.

For your information! Puppies can be born to Alabais, Great Danes, Labradors, Newfoundlands, Caucasian and Moscow guard dogs, and large mongrels within 64-71 days.

The duration of gestation in large females directly depends on the number of fetuses, physiological characteristics, activation of metabolic processes in skeletal muscles, and nutrition.

How many months a dog carries puppies is influenced by compliance with maintenance recommendations for a particular breed. If the owner does not adhere to the conditions of detention, the duration of the gestational period may be reduced by one to two weeks, and the babies will be born premature.

Large breeds stay pregnant the longest

How long does a dog bear puppies?

Statistically, it is typical for a female dog to bear puppies for approximately two months (60-64 days). How long it takes for certain dogs to give birth largely depends on the breed of the animal and its size.

Veterinarians note that dogs of small breeds (lapdogs, corgis) usually give birth at 60, less often at 56-57 days.

Large breeds (German shepherd, Great Dane) give birth to puppies a little later - on days 64-66.

If the pregnancy lasts a little more than 10 weeks, then this is not always a cause for concern, since it is quite possible that the owner has confused the date of conception. This is common if the bitch participated in mating several times in a row, with an interval of a couple of days, to ensure the fidelity of the offspring.

However, if the animal steps beyond the permissible limit, be sure to contact a specialist for help!

If the bitch belongs to a large breed (huskies, wolfhounds, Neapolitan mastiffs), then her offspring will not consist of a large number of puppies. At the same time, the number of offspring does not affect the duration of labor

, but is associated with the size of newborns (the fewer there are in one offspring, the larger the size). The last point is quite important if the dog is post-term, since it is difficult for her to give birth to large puppies on her own.

As noted above, a small breed dog (Toy Terrier, Pekingese, Spitz) is pregnant a little less than representatives of large breeds, about 60-62 days. Birth problems are similar to those faced by medium and large breeds, namely if the litter of puppies is large.

Veterinarians notice that the smaller the breed of animal, the larger the offspring it has.

This is fraught with the complication that the uterus with the offspring can take up too much space and crowd the stomach, which leads to problems

. To avoid this, you need to feed your pet high-calorie and fractional food that will be quickly digested and water it regularly.

Medium-sized dogs combine the qualities of the previously discussed breeds.

That is, most often they will give birth between 62 and 64 days. Complications during pregnancy are not much different from those that occur in other breeds.

Is it possible to calculate the time of pregnancy

Dog owners who have been breeding and selling puppies for many years can accurately calculate the date of birth of their babies. Breeders with experience are guided by the following rules:

• if you need to clearly know the timing of the gestational period and birth, you need to record the exact time of mating;
• in the event of an unplanned conception, calculating all dates becomes very difficult;
• if the dog has health problems, pregnancy will be difficult, labor will begin 7-10 days earlier;
• knowing whether the dog has whelped before, you can calculate the birth of babies with an accuracy of three to five days;
• Preventive examinations by a veterinarian during pregnancy will help not only maintain the normal health of your pet, but also, with the help of a specialist, more accurately determine the date of birth of her children.

How puppies develop in the belly of a mother dog

The first signs of a dog’s special condition, in which developing embryos are located in its reproductive organs, are noticeable already on the twentieth day. The skin tissue on the animal's abdomen swells slightly, the outer parts of the mammary glands become larger, and the nipples acquire a reddish tint. A characteristic sign for the development of normal gestation is the rounding of the tummy in the area of ​​the ribs.

Note! In an animal clinic, an accurate diagnosis can be determined using an ultrasound machine. It is best to carry out a diagnosis starting from the 21st day of the pet’s expected condition.

During a non-invasive examination of the dog’s body, the embryos contained in the amniotic sacs will be visible on the display screen. Each child of the mother dog is clearly visible, starting from the 32nd day of pregnancy. At this time, in addition to nipple enlargement, mammary gland secretion is possible. This phenomenon occurs very rarely, since milk is usually poured 24 hours before or after childbirth.

Fetuses diagnosed by ultrasound

The gestational period proceeds as follows:

• in the first 15 days after conception, the embryos are hidden under a special bladder and gradually move from the ovaries to the uterine cavity. Then they are firmly fixed on its walls and grow;
• starting from the fortieth day, the internal organs, skeleton, and nervous system are formed in the fetus. The respiratory and auditory organs become visible in the muzzle area. At this stage, babies grow eyelashes and tactile mechanosensitive hairs and fur;
• on the fiftieth day, the bones of the embryos become stronger, and the genital organs of the cubs are formed. During this period, it is already possible to examine in detail the position of the fruits. In addition, it is at this time that their baby teeth develop, hair grows on their muzzle and tummy;
• on the 58th day, the babies are ready for birth.

Possible complications during pregnancy

In some cases, the natural physiological process of development in the reproductive organs of the bitch is accompanied by complications. Deterioration of the dog's condition may be due to:

• metabolic disorders;
• chronic or acquired diseases of internal organs;
• improper keeping of the animal.

Sometimes, due to the specific characteristics of the reproductive cycle or psychophysical abnormalities in the body, false pregnancy occurs. The dog's behavior shows signs of nesting; all other symptoms are similar to real pregnancy. Such a deviation in the female body occurs after estrus four to five weeks. Due to hormonal imbalance, yellow cells are produced that release progesterone into the blood. The organic substance blocks the onset of ovulation.

Important! Without complications, on average, such a deviation lasts about two to three weeks. To ensure that the consequences of this condition do not cause harm to the animal’s health, you need to show it to a veterinarian, who will prescribe the dog sedatives.

The thermal state of the bitch’s body is measured 24 hours before the onset of labor. The difference in indicators is observed already three days before the start of the birth of puppies. If the dog's body temperature drops significantly long before this moment, the dog urgently needs the help of a doctor. Quite often, such a symptom indicates a threat of spontaneous abortion.

Despite the fact that the gestation period is a natural process, the owner of a bitch of any breed needs to provide her with comfortable conditions, as well as provide assistance if necessary. In order for the pregnancy to proceed without complications, you need to systematically show your pet to the veterinarian and comply with the necessary conditions of detention.

Caring for a pregnant bitch

Despite the fact that giving birth to a husky is a natural process, the dog still needs additional care and special treatment during this period. Carefully monitor your diet, include in your food as many healthy foods as possible, rich in various vitamins and minerals. Be sure to include vitamins in the daily menu of a pregnant woman, and after a nursing husky. But you shouldn’t buy them yourself. The huge variety of vitamin supplements is sure to confuse you and lead you astray. Therefore, be sure to consult with your veterinarian about possible vitamin and nutritional supplements.

In addition to nutrition, be sure to monitor your pregnant bitch. In recent weeks, do not allow her to jump from the sofa or other high surfaces. Reduce physical activity, eliminate strong, forceful exercise. But you shouldn’t feel too sorry for the dog. She should lead a full lifestyle, walk and even run every day. All this will help prepare the body for the birth of husky puppies.

How long does a dog's pregnancy last on average and how does it proceed?

The gestation period for different mammals has different durations. Pregnancy in dogs (also called whelping) normally lasts from 53 to 72 days. This process takes place individually for each animal and depends on the characteristics of the breed, size, number of puppies and other factors.

Offspring born ahead of schedule often have breathing problems, since the lungs of babies up to 53 days of intrauterine development are not fully formed. When overmature, puppies usually suffer from a lack of oxygen, in addition, they may develop intoxication.

The first birth is the most difficult for bitches. If a young female is bearing her first offspring, then the owner should be well prepared for the birth of the puppies, since the pet will most likely need help. It is good if a veterinarian is present at the birth. He will detect complications in time based on characteristic signs and take the necessary measures.

You need to prepare your pet for bearing babies several months before the planned conception. She needs to get routine vaccinations, be treated for parasites and adjust her diet.

First two weeks

After mating, sperm activity remains for 7 days, so conception does not always occur on the day of sexual intercourse. After the first contact with the male, the female’s estrus does not end, so the breeder has the opportunity to re-breed to increase the likelihood of conception.

Next comes fertilization: the sperm and egg unite to form a new cell. From this cell an embryo develops that has the genes of its parents. Fertilized cells move towards the uterus, actively divide and become covered with a protective membrane.

The female ends her heat, she ceases to be interested in the male, and may become lethargic. Sometimes dogs lose their appetite and experience nausea in the morning. Attacks of toxicosis last no more than 1 month; if they persist after 4 weeks, there is a risk of intoxication. During this period, it is important to monitor your pet’s health and ensure that it eats well. You should not give your female medication or vitamin supplements without consulting a veterinarian.

At week 2, the embryos move into the uterine cavity and attach to its wall. The mother's body begins to supply them with nutrients and oxygen. The feeding regimen during this period should remain the same, walks and exercises are also carried out as usual.

If the dog has already had puppies, then already in the second week you will notice that its nipples are slightly swollen. In pets expecting their first litter, the skin of their areolas turns slightly pink.

Third and fourth weeks

At this stage, the embryos grow up to 10 mm, their internal organs begin to form, and the nervous system is formed. Development is greatly influenced by genes that determine the characteristics characteristic of the breed. The placenta becomes thicker, but the bitch may still be a little lethargic and feel slightly nauseous.

How long does it last

As a rule, the onset of labor occurs between 55 and 66 days after conception. However, puppies born early (53-55 days) or, conversely, late (66-71 days) are also able to be born healthy under certain factors:

1. Breed size. Large breeds have to bear their offspring longer than small ones.
2. Number of pregnancies. The duration of pregnancy in dogs that give birth repeatedly will be shorter than in those that bear cubs for the first time.
3. Conception date. If there were several matings, and the cause of pregnancy was not the first, then the due date is shifted.
4. Number and size of future puppies: a large number of fruits implies long development;
5. Large babies are in a hurry to be born earlier than usual.

If the timing shifts from the norm by more than 10 days, you should seek help from a specialist. When the puppies are confirmed to be mature, a caesarean section is used to remove them.

Let's look at the gestation periods of popular breeds in the table:

Signs of pregnancy: how to understand that your pet is carrying puppies?

Early pregnancy in dogs is difficult to determine. However, there are a number of signs by which experienced dog breeders can understand that the mating was successful and the pet is pregnant. From 1–2 weeks, the female exhibits the following changes in behavior and appearance:

• a pregnant dog eats and plays less;
• sleeps more than usual;
• becomes inactive, lethargic;
• by the end of the second week, the nipples swell and their color changes;
• toxicosis appears.

Such behavioral shifts and external changes occur under the influence of hormones. In the third week, pregnancy is determined by the amount of the hormone relaxin in the blood serum. From 4 weeks, the presence of fetuses in the uterus can be detected by ultrasound.

How can you tell if your dog is pregnant?

Obvious manifestations of pregnancy in dogs become noticeable in the later stages. Neither by the appearance of the dog, nor by palpating its abdomen, pregnancy can be determined in the early phase. The first signs are related to the dog’s mental state, that is, its behavior. She becomes calmer, begins to show affection to her owner and needs them in return.

Signs of pregnancy in dogs

1. Manifestation of some nervousness, absent-mindedness, unwillingness to obey the owner.
2. On the 25th–30th day, the skin in the area of ​​the mammary glands swells and they become pink. Behind the ribs you can notice a slight increase in the abdomen.
3. The pet begins to build its nest, sometimes hiding something edible.
4. Showing unfriendliness towards other dogs, and sometimes aggression towards people.
5. Showing interest in objects that resemble puppies.
6. Sudden weight gain.
7. Severe enlargement of the mammary glands, and a week before giving birth, some dogs begin to produce milk.
8. Frequent licking.
9. 8–36 hours before birth there is a sharp drop in temperature.

Duration of gestation in dogs of different breeds

How long a dog's gestation period is depends on many factors. On average, puppies need about 60–65 days after conception to fully develop.

Representatives of small breeds, such as toy terriers and lap dogs, often give birth at 57–60 days. In large dogs - huskies, great Danes, shepherds - gestation lasts up to 64–66 days.

The number of puppies in large females is never large. However, veterinarians note that the size and weight of cubs in small litters is always greater than in multiple pregnancies. For this reason, Alabai, Mastiff, Great Dane and other large dogs sometimes have difficulty whelping, since the cubs become too large at the time of birth.

According to statistics, the smaller the size of a bitch according to the breed standard, the more puppies she has in her litter. In such animals, pregnancy is complicated by the strong pressure of the uterus on surrounding organs. Griffons, dachshunds, toy terriers, and Pekingese during pregnancy need to be fed often, but in small portions.

Mutts and medium breeds generally keep their puppies for no more than 64 days. Complications occur less frequently in huskies, spaniels and small mongrels.

Length of gestation period in large dogs

Large females (labrador, German shepherd, husky, husky) most often give birth to small offspring. At the same time, the puppies born are of average size (larger than those of the offspring of mothers of small and medium breeds).

How many months a pregnant dog can walk depends on its state of health. Puppity lasts on average 2 months. Sometimes a mother can whelp at 2.5 months. This will not be considered a deviation from the norm.

Important! Mutts also give birth at 2-2.5 months of pregnancy.

What factors influence gestational age?

The gestation period in dogs can vary in length. How long it will last depends not only on whether the female is a small or large breed. The following factors influence the course of pregnancy:

• Number of pregnancies. Usually, in bitches giving birth for the first time, pregnancy lasts longer than in dogs that have already had experience giving birth to offspring.
• Pet's age. Young females often give birth on time; older animals sometimes carry their cubs to term.
• Injuries and diseases. Premature birth of puppies can be caused by illnesses or injuries received during pregnancy.
• Lack of nutrients and vitamins. Exhaustion of the body also often causes deviations in gestational age.

Dog behavior during pregnancy

A dog's behavior may change several times during pregnancy. Some individuals become aggressive, others, on the contrary, retire and refuse to go for walks. In addition, each individual's taste preferences and appetite change. Some dogs start eating all kinds of foods or become too picky.

The reaction of dogs after birth is ambiguous. Some individuals do not prevent the owner from contacting the puppies, and sometimes the dog can categorically forbid approaching its offspring.

Editorial staff of WikiPet.ru