Pregnant Dog Nipples vs Normal

Pregnant dog nipples vs normal

One of the signs that your dog may be pregnant is a change in her nipples.  A normal dog's nipples are small, firm, and consistent in size and color. On the other hand, you will notice that your dog’s nipples have become larger, and the color darkens significantly if she’s pregnant. The texture will also change; pregnant nipples become softer and extend downwards as the body prepares for nursing.

Recognizing these nipple changes and other signs can help determine if your dog is pregnant. In this article, we discuss nipple changes to look out for that may indicate that your dog is pregnant. We also highlight other signs of canine pregnancy so you are not caught off guard!

What do pregnant dog nipples look like?

The size, shape, color, texture, and overall sensitivity of a female dog’s nipples change when pregnant. These changes start around the third week and continue until she has her puppies. 

Here are 5 pregnant dog nipple changes to watch out for.

Larger and more rounded

Around the third to fourth week of pregnancy, the areola of your pregnant dog will become larger than usual. This change progresses as the pregnancy advances and becomes even more noticeable by the fifth to sixth week. 

In addition, the nipples become more rounded and swollen, indicating that the body is preparing for lactation.

Darker color than normal, especially the areola

The pigmentation of the nipples, especially the areola, darkens significantly due to hormonal changes. This darkening starts in the fourth to fifth week of pregnancy and becomes more pronounced as the pregnancy nears its end. The color change serves as a visual cue that the dog is approaching her due date.

Softer and more sensitive

By the fourth to fifth week, the skin around the nipples softens and becomes more flexible. Additionally, most pregnant dogs feel more sensitive around their nipples, leading them to become even more protective of their bodies.

More spaced out

A pregnant dog's nipples appear more spaced out as they extend downwards, which helps facilitate nursing when the puppies are born. This spacing change becomes more noticeable around the sixth to seventh week of pregnancy.

Milk production

In the last week of pregnancy, your dog’s nipples will begin to discharge colostrum (the first milk produced), which typically appears clear to yellowish and thick in consistency. As the due date approaches, milk production increases. You might even notice droplets or leakage from the nipples, especially when it’s stimulated, or your dog is lying on her side.

How many nipples does a dog have?

Dogs have between 8 to 10 nipples arranged in two rows on the underside of their belly. Although some can have more, while others have fewer. Contrary to popular opinion, both male and female dogs have nipples. In female dogs, the nipples are there to nourish their puppies, while male dogs' nipples serve no purpose. 

Pregnant dog nipples vs in heat

Size and shape

The nipples of a female dog become larger from the third week of pregnancy until she has her puppies. In contrast, the nipples of a dog in heat generally remain the same size and shape as they do in their normal state.

Color changes

The areola of a pregnant dog darkens significantly. Conversely, dogs in heat may show slight color changes around the areola, but they are typically not as pronounced as in pregnant dogs.

Texture and sensitivity

As pregnancy progresses (starting from the fourth week), the skin around a pregnant dog's nipples becomes softer and more sensitive. In contrast, the nipples of dogs in heat usually feel normal in texture. 

Dogs in heat also have sensitive nipples, but they are not as heightened as in pregnant dogs.

Positioning

Around the sixth to seventh week, a pregnant dog's nipples appear more spaced out or elevated, which aids in nursing after birth. Conversely, the nipples' position remains unchanged throughout the heat cycle.

Milk production

Dogs in heat do not produce any milk while pregnant dogs' nipples produce milk to feed their puppies.

Early canine pregnancy symptoms

If you notice that your dog has been gaining weight lately and that her nipples are extending downwards, it could mean that your female dog is expecting puppies. Here are 6 early dog pregnancy symptoms to look out for. 

Nausea or vomiting

Just like how humans have morning sickness when pregnant, dogs can feel a bit queasy, too, especially in the early weeks. This might lead to occasional vomiting, especially if they eat too fast or their food changes.

Increased urination

If you notice that your dog is urinating more frequently, it’s most likely due to hormonal changes and increased blood flow. As the puppies grow in her uterus, they put pressure on the bladder, leading to more frequent bathroom trips or even your dog peeing in their bed. 

However, watch out to see if the frequent urination is accompanied by pain or discomfort. If it is, you should bring your dog to the vet.

Increased appetite and weight gain 

Some dogs start to eat more food as their bodies require more nutrients to support the little ones growing inside. This increased appetite starts gradually and becomes more noticeable as the pregnancy progresses. Gradual weight gain typically starts around the fourth to fifth week of pregnancy. Your pregnant dog will naturally put on some pounds as the puppies grow. In addition, her belly will start to get bigger as the weeks go by.

Fatigue and decreased activity

Pregnant dogs often feel more tired and sleep a lot. This is perfectly normal because their bodies are working hard to support the growing puppies. Hence, you might notice that your dog prefers to lounge around and not be as playful or energetic as she used to be.

Behavioral changes

Hormone fluctuations can make dogs act differently. Your pregnant dog might want more cuddles and attention, while others might feel anxious or want to be alone. These changes are normal during pregnancy.

Pregnant dog nipples: summary

Knowing how to differentiate between a normal dog and a pregnant dog's nipples can really help in understanding your dog’s health and needs.  If you notice any changes and suspect your dog might be pregnant, consult a veterinarian.

Normal dog nipples appear small, firm, and the same color as the surrounding skin. Both male and female dogs have them, and they generally don’t change much in size or shape. On the other hand, pregnant dog nipples become larger, darken significantly, especially the area around the nipple, and are softer.