Why Human Pregnancy Tests Don't Work on Dogs
Many pet owners are curious whether a human pregnancy test can be used to determine if their dog is expecting. While this might seem like a convenient at-home option, the reality is that human pregnancy tests are not effective for diagnosing pregnancy in dogs. The reason lies in the differences in reproductive biology between humans and dogs.
The Science Behind Pregnancy Tests
Human pregnancy tests work by detecting a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced by the placenta shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. However, dogs do not produce hCG during pregnancy. Instead, the primary pregnancy-related hormone in dogs is relaxin, which is secreted by the placenta beginning around 21–27 days after mating.
Reliable Methods to Confirm Dog Pregnancy
If you suspect your dog may be pregnant, the most reliable way to confirm this is through veterinary diagnostics. These include:
- Abdominal Ultrasound: Can detect developing embryos and even heartbeats as early as 21 days post-mating.
- Relaxin Blood Test: This test measures levels of the relaxin hormone, typically reliable between days 21 and 27 of gestation.
- Abdominal Palpation: A trained veterinarian may be able to feel the developing puppies through the abdominal wall between days 28 and 35.
- Abdominal X-ray: After day 45 of pregnancy, X-rays can visualize puppy skeletons and determine litter size.
Common Early Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs
Although human tests won’t work, you may notice several behavioral and physical changes that suggest pregnancy in your dog:
- Changes in appetite—either decreased or increased
- Mild nausea or vomiting (similar to morning sickness)
- Enlarged and darkened nipples around 3-4 weeks after breeding
- Slight vulval discharge or swelling
- Changes in behavior like increased affection or irritability
Physical Signs in Later Pregnancy
- Visible abdominal enlargement starting around week 5–6
- Noticeable weight gain by days 35-40
- Milk leakage from nipples in the final week
- Nesting behavior such as digging or shredding bedding
Prepare with Proper Veterinary Care
If pregnancy is suspected or confirmed, teleconsult or visit your vet regularly to monitor the dog’s health. Nutritional needs will change, especially in the later weeks, requiring a switch to a high-quality puppy or growth-specific diet. Also, ensure a calm environment and consider creating a dedicated whelping area for birthing and raising puppies.
Understanding False Pregnancy
Some dogs may show signs of pregnancy even if they are not pregnant—a condition known as false pregnancy or pseudopregnancy. This can include nesting, nipple enlargement, and even lactation. Veterinary evaluation is necessary to differentiate between true and false pregnancy.
Key Takeaways
- Do not rely on human pregnancy tests for dogs—they are ineffective.
- Use veterinary-approved diagnostics like ultrasound or relaxin blood tests.
- Observe your dog’s behavior and physical signs but consult a vet for accurate confirmation.
- Provide high-quality nutrition, regular check-ups, and a peaceful environment for pregnant dogs.
When to Seek Veterinary Help
Contact a vet immediately if you notice any of the following complications:
- More than 72 days have passed since mating
- Excessive bleeding or foul-smelling discharge during labor
- Straining during labor without delivering a puppy within 60 minutes
- Signs of eclampsia like vomiting, fever, or lethargy
Ultimately, veterinary care is vital for ensuring the health and safety of both the mother and puppies.
