| Gestation Period | 58 to 68 days (average 63 days) |
| Signs of Pregnancy | Increased appetite, weight gain, enlarged abdomen, increased nipple size, behavioral changes |
| Veterinary Check-ups | Initial confirmation at 25-30 days, follow-up check-ups at 45 days and close to due date |
| Diet | High-quality, protein-rich diet; possible increase in food quantity as pregnancy progresses |
| Exercise | Moderate exercise; avoid strenuous activities, especially in later stages |
| Whelping Preparation | Create a whelping box, maintain a calm and quiet environment, gather supplies (towels, heating pad) |
| Signs of Labor | Restlessness, nesting behavior, loss of appetite, drop in body temperature 24 hours before labor |
| Stages of Labor | 1. Initial contractions and nesting (6-12 hours) |
| 2. Active labor and delivery of puppies (3-12 hours) |
| 3. Delivery of placenta (after each puppy) |
| Postpartum Care | Monitor mother and puppies, ensure puppies are nursing, keep environment warm and clean |
| Common Issues | Dystocia (difficult birth), eclampsia (low calcium), mastitis (mammary gland infection) |
| Veterinary Intervention | Required if labor lasts more than 24 hours, if there’s a delay between puppies, or signs of distress |