PREGNANCYChanges in the Dam and Foetus

The average length of a pregnancy is 61 days +/- 1 day ~ post conception. Foetuses can be considered viable after 55 days gestation but tend to suffer from respiratory problems due to lung immaturity and lack of surfactant. Lack of surfactant / respiratory system immaturity is a major cause of premature neonatal deaths in puppies. Surfactant in the lungs is necessary for effective gaseous exchange as it breaks down the surface tension of pulmonary fluids and prevents the collapse of the alveoli after each respiration by promoting elasticity / compliance of the alveolar tissue.

The links listed below includes methods of pregnancy diagnosis, the changes that occur to the bitch and the foetus during this time as well as activities that need to be undertaken by the breeder to ensure the pregnancy advances without incidence and the puppies are likely to have homes to go to.



Pregnancy Diagnosis

Changes in the Dam and Developing Foetus

Pregnancy Timeline

Critical Events During Embryonic Development