INDEED, THE DIAGNOSIS OF PREGNANCY IN DOGS INVOLVES MULTIPLE TECHNIQUES, EACH WITH ITS OWN ADVANTAGES AND LIMITATIONS DEPENDING ON THE GESTATIONAL STAGE AND INDIVIDUAL CIRCUMSTANCES.

Manual palpation: Veterinarians can feel the uterus and fetuses inside the dog through direct palpation. The best time for this method is between the 28th and 35th day after pregnancy. Before this time, the fetuses are too small to be easily detected; after this time, they may be confused with food and other substances in the intestines.

Ultrasonography: This is the earliest method to diagnose pregnancy in dogs. Skilled ultrasonographers can detect fetuses in the dog’s abdomen from the 16th day of pregnancy.

Stethoscope: From the sixth week of pregnancy, veterinarians can use a stethoscope to listen to the heartbeat of the puppies. However, due to the thick fur of dogs and their round abdomen, it can be difficult for the stethoscope to be fully attached, making it relatively challenging to listen.

Blood test: Blood testing can be said to be the most accurate diagnostic method. The purpose of the blood test is to determine whether a pregnancy hormone called progesterone is present in the dog’s blood, thereby confirming pregnancy.

Each of these methods has its own characteristics, and the appropriate method can be selected based on the specific situation and pregnancy stage of the pet. If there are any doubts or the pet exhibits any abnormal symptoms, it is recommended to consult a veterinarian promptly and conduct appropriate examinations.