Dog pregnancy & puppies

Dog: 58–68 days (avg 63), cat: 58–67 days. Confirmation — ultrasound at 25–30 days, X-ray from day 45 (counts the litter). A pregnant pet needs +30–50% calories in the second half.

A week ahead: a whelping spot (quiet corner, low-edged box), pads, antiseptic, umbilical thread, vet's number at hand. Temperature below 37.2°C — birth within 24h.

Normal: contractions → puppy in 30–60 min, pauses up to 2h. Call the vet: 1+ h of pushing with no puppy, green/bloody discharge before the first pup, 4+ h pause, weakness.

Mother's milk is essential until 3 weeks. Weaning starts at 3–4 weeks. Puppies open eyes at 10–14 days. First vet check and deworming — at week 3.

Not before 8–10 weeks (cats 10–12): maternal socialization is critical. Before rehoming — age-appropriate vaccines, vet passport. A responsible-ownership agreement is normal practice.