Just a lil’ whelping education

The average gestation period of a female dog will range between 58 to 68 days (roughly 8-10 weeks) before whelping. See attached calculator to estimate whelping dates. http://www.lowchensaustralia.com/breeding/whelpingchartb.htm

1. Proestrus: Proestrus is the start of the heat period where your dog’s body is preparing to mate and averages about nine days, but can last from three to 17 days. Her vulva will swell and you may notice a blood-tinged discharge,1 but many dogs are fastidious about messes and will clean themselves before you notice. Your dog may also hold her tail close to her body and stick just as close to your side, displaying clingy behavior. At this stage of the heat cycle, your dog will attract males, but she will not be receptive to them and may become aggressive if they try to mount her.

2. Estrus: The estrus phase is the mating phase and usually lasts around nine days, but can be as short as three or as long as 21 days. During this time, blood flow will lessen and then stop, but the discharge may change to a straw color. Female dogs will attract and accept males, with ovulation occurring two to three days after mating. You may notice your dog urinating more frequently and marking spots within and outside your home to spread pheromone messages indicating her readiness to breed. If an intact male is present, your female dog is likely to present herself to him, hindquarters first, and with her tail held to the side.