Short answer: Average canine gestation is 63 days from the LH surge (ovulation), but ranges 56-72 days from breeding. The variability is because sperm survives several days in the female tract. Progesterone testing during heat gives the most accurate due date.
What you should actually do
- Gestation: 63 ± 1 days from ovulation; 56-72 days from a single breeding.
- Progesterone timing: ovulation occurs at ~5 ng/mL; gestation is exactly 63 days from this point.
- Ultrasound at day 28-30 confirms pregnancy and viable fetuses.
- Radiograph at day 55+ counts puppy skulls – critical for knowing when whelping is complete.
- Signs of labor approaching: progesterone drops below 2 ng/mL ~24 h before whelping, body temperature drops below 99 °F.
If you’ve bred your dog and want to predict due date precisely, ask your repro vet to do serial progesterone tests during heat. This pinpoints ovulation and lets you count 63 days for accurate whelping prediction.
First-time whelps in toy and brachycephalic breeds should be planned with a vet near at hand – dystocia rates are higher and many require C-section.
Dig deeper
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is intended for educational purposes only and does not replace a hands-on veterinary examination. Drug doses depend on your dog’s complete clinical picture, concurrent medications, and the exact product formulation. Always confirm dosing with your veterinarian before administering any medication, and contact a 24-hour veterinary emergency service or animal poison control immediately if you suspect a medication overdose or adverse reaction. Editorial standards: every drug dose published on PuppaDogs is cross-checked against multiple authoritative veterinary references and reviewed by PuppaDogs Veterinary Editorial Team before publication.
