It's an exciting time when you're breeding your Maltese, and you're probably eager to know if she's pregnant. Generally, you can start noticing signs of pregnancy in your Maltese about a week after mating. Let's explore the early indicators and what to expect during her gestation.
Early Signs of Maltese Pregnancy
Around one week post-mating, you may observe the vulva of your female Maltese beginning to contract. Some owners also notice a small amount of dark brownish discharge. In addition, your dog may display a decreased appetite. As she moves into the second or third week of pregnancy, her mammary glands will start to enlarge, and her appetite will significantly increase. Her coat may also become more lustrous, and she may exhibit a more docile and slow-moving nature. It is recommended to take your dog for an ultrasound examination at around 30 days after mating for confirmation.
Some Maltese may experience morning sickness around 25 days into the pregnancy, exhibiting symptoms like vomiting or changes in food preferences. Around one month of pregnancy, you can physically see her abdomen swell, her nipples will be prominent and elastic, and her mammary glands will be enlarging—sometimes even expressing milk. Also, she will experience a significant weight increase and more frequent urination. At this stage, an ultrasound is recommended to confirm pregnancy and an X-ray can help in determining the approximate number of puppies.
It’s crucial to ensure that pregnant Maltese dogs get proper nutrition and a moderate amount of exercise to ensure a healthy pregnancy.
Maltese Litter Size
Maltese breeding is a costly affair, primarily because a typical Maltese mother will only produce about 1-3 puppies in a litter. This relatively small litter size is one of the reasons why Maltese puppies tend to be more expensive compared to other small breeds.
Maltese have sensitive digestive systems and are prone to tear stains, so it is essential to provide them with high-quality dog food. Owning a Maltese can also lead to higher expenses due to the continuous need for clothing, toys, treats, and supplements. It's crucial to be financially prepared for these additional costs before you bring one of these charming dogs into your life.