Eggs release from the ovaries and become fertilized, marking conception (day 0 of pregnancy).
Fertilization
The fertilized eggs implant into the uterine lining around days 10-14.
Implantation
The embryos develop rapidly over the first 5-6 weeks. Provide premium nutrition at this time.
Embryonic Stage
The puppy fetuses grow hair, teeth, claws and rapidly gain weight in weeks 6-9.
Fetal Stage
Look for nesting behavior, loss of appetite and discharge in the last 2 weeks signaling impending labor.
Labor Signs
Labor lasts 6-12 hours as puppies are birthed one by one. Contact your vet if complications arise.
Delivery
The mother dog delivers the afterbirth and placenta of each puppy 15-30 minutes after birth.
Passing Placentas