Boo's Pregnancy: A Time of Change

A Time for changes:

Week Four: Day 22 to 28

Once it has implanted, the puppy begins to develop. Development begins on week 4, which is day 22 to day 28. During this time, puppy is still very small, and will only reach 5 to 10mm by day 28. However, it is starting to take shape.

Over this week, the spinal cord begins to develop. In addition, the head portion of the embryo should be bending forward, and the brain and the shape of the face will begin. Eyes will start to develop. Finally, the puppy's limb buds should be developing.

For the mum, week 3, around implantation, and into week four, she may exhibit canine morning sickness, which is usually a loss of appetite, although some dogs will throw up. She may not show any outward signs at this point, but a vet or experienced breeder may be able to palpitate for puppies, which feel like walnuts. (As a side, I do not palpitate as it can damage the puppies if you are not careful.)

The dam's nipples may begin to darken and enlarge but again, this can be seen with false pregnancy. It can also be common for a dam to not show any outward signs, even at the end of the fourth week.

This is when I take the girls for an ultrasound to confirm their pregnancy and we get into full litter preparation.

Our waiting list opens, and we start compiling potential new members of our Bellamiscela Family. I start to prepare equipment and start to think about a theme for the litter and what names we will use once born. I think this little will be called the "Licorice all Sorts " and will have a Lolly influenced names.