It typically takes about 20 days after mating to start noticing signs of pregnancy in a French Bulldog. At this time, you might observe changes such as enlarged nipples and developing mammary glands. For a definitive confirmation, it's recommended to take your dog to a veterinarian for an ultrasound around 30 days post-mating.
Within about a week after mating, a female French Bulldog's vulva will begin to contract, and you might notice a small amount of dark brown discharge along with a decrease in appetite. Around 20 days after mating, her nipples will become more prominent, and the mammary glands will begin to develop. By about a month, you may see her abdomen swell, her breasts droop, and her nipples become more elastic with the mammary glands significantly enlarging. In some cases, milk might even be expressed, and her weight will increase rapidly alongside more frequent urination. While these are strong indicators of pregnancy, it's important to note that a dog can experience a false pregnancy. An ultrasound performed around 30 days post-mating is ideal to visually confirm pregnancy by detecting fetuses. If no fetuses are visible by 30 days after mammary gland development, the dog is likely not pregnant. During pregnancy, your Frenchie will need proper nutrition and moderate exercise.
How Long is a French Bulldog's Pregnancy?
French Bulldogs generally give birth around 60 days after conception. However, there's always the possibility of premature labor. Around the 50-day mark, it’s advisable to get an X-ray at a vet to determine the number of puppies. Given the breed’s predisposition to dystocia (difficult birth), if your dog is carrying a large litter, a C-section at a vet's office is strongly recommended. During pregnancy, ensuring your dog is warm, comfortable, and gets proper nutrition is crucial to ensure a safe and successful delivery.