Pit Bull Pregnancy: Gestation Period, Weekly Milestones, and Care Guide

Young female veterinarian doctor examining pit bull
© Denys Kurbatov/Shutterstock.com

Written by Jennifer Gaeng

Updated: June 30, 2023

Share on:

Advertisement


Are you interested in learning about the unique pregnancy experience of pit bulls? Along with gestation, pit bulls undergo various significant milestones, such as the fertilization and implantation of the egg, the growth of the fetus, and the litter’s birthing phase.

It’s crucial to practice responsible pet ownership by taking the necessary steps to ensure the health of both mother and pups during this time. By providing proper nutrition and frequent vet check-ups, we can protect the well-being of our beloved furry friends.

This article will explore pit bull pregnancy in greater detail, examining the gestational process, crucial milestones, and essential care tips imperative for maintaining a successful and healthy pregnancy. Let’s jump in and discover all there is to know about pit bull pregnancy!

Pit Bull Pregnancy Gestation Period

dog pregnancy test

Expectant pit bull moms will go through implantation, fetal development, and birthing.

©otsphoto/Shutterstock.com

Did you know that a pit bull’s gestation period is typically around 63 days? While this can vary depending on the size of the litter, expectant pit bull moms will go through various milestones during this time, such as fertilization, implantation, fetal development, and birthing.

Pit Bull Pregnancy Weekly Milestones

Pit bull pregnancies involve various exciting landmarks that take place each week. Here’s a quick summary:

Week 1

The process of fertilization takes place as the sperm meets the egg.

Week 2

The embryo is implanted in the uterus, getting comfy for the weeks ahead.

Week 3

The placenta starts to form, marking the beginning of the fetal development stage.

Week 4

Organs begin to take shape and develop in the fetus’s body.

Week 5

The fetuses’ gender can be determined, and their fur begins to grow.

Week 6

The fetus’ nails start to appear, and its eyes and ears begin to develop.

Week 7

This is when the fetus first starts to move around in the uterus.

Week 8

The fetuses are fully formed and ready for birth! The mom-to-be may start exhibiting nesting behaviors soon, getting ready for the big day!

However, please note that these milestones may differ slightly between pregnancies.

Pit Bull Pregnancy Care Guide

Two American Pit Bull puppies on a white background

Pit bull puppies require special care, as does the mother, even after birth.

©iStock.com/GlobalP

To ensure the health and well-being of both mother and puppies, it’s essential to provide proper care.

If you’re caring for a pregnant pit bull, it’s important to know how to keep her healthy and comfortable during this exciting time. Here are some essential tips to follow:

Nutrition: Make sure your pit bull gets a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet that meets her increased energy needs. It’s best to consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your dog.

Hydration: Always ensure that your pit bull has access to plenty of clean water throughout the day. This will help keep her hydrated and healthy.

Exercise: Your pit bull still needs exercise during pregnancy, but it’s vital to avoid overexertion. Encourage low-impact activities, like short walks, and avoid high-intensity exercises, like agility training.

Vet check-ups: Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for monitoring the health of both the mother and growing fetuses. Your veterinarian can provide recommendations for prenatal care, monitor the pregnancy, and address any complications that may arise.

Stress reduction: Keep your pit bull’s stress levels low by creating a peaceful and comfortable environment, maintaining routines, and providing plenty of opportunities for rest and relaxation.

Whelping area: Ensure your pit bull has a quiet and safe area to give birth. Make sure the area is free from noise and distractions.

Remember, every pit bull pregnancy is unique, and it’s important to speak with your vet for personalized care recommendations. Most importantly, be patient, supportive, and attentive to your pit bull’s needs during this exciting time of her life.

It’s also worth noting that ultrasounds can be performed between days 25 to 35 to keep track of the puppies’ growth and confirm the pregnancy.

Ready to discover the top 10 cutest dog breeds in the entire world?

How about the fastest dogs, the largest dogs and those that are -- quite frankly -- just the kindest dogs on the planet? Each day, AZ Animals sends out lists just like this to our thousands of email subscribers. And the best part? It's FREE. Join today by entering your email below.

What's the right dog for you?

Dogs are our best friends but which breed is your perfect match?

X-Small
Small
Medium
Large
Xtra-Large

If you have kids or existing dogs select:

Kids
Other Dogs

Should they be Hypoallergenic?

Yes
No
How important is health?
Which dog groups do you like?
How much exercise should your dog require?
What climate?
How much seperation anxiety?
How much yappiness/barking?

How much energy should they have?

The lower energy the better.
I want a cuddle buddy!
About average energy.
I want a dog that I have to chase after constantly!
All energy levels are great -- I just love dogs!
How much should they shed?
How trainable/obedient does the dog need to be?
How intelligent does the dog need to be?
How much chewing will allow?

Share this post on:
About the Author

Jennifer Gaeng is a writer at A-Z-Animals focused on animals, lakes, and fishing. With over 15 years of collective experience in writing and researching, Jennifer has honed her skills in various niches, including nature, animals, family care, and self-care. Hailing from Missouri, Jennifer finds inspiration in spending quality time with her loved ones. Her creative spirit extends beyond her writing endeavors, as she finds joy in the art of drawing and immersing herself in the beauty of nature.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.