Does my Dog Know I am Pregnant?

[GSDOWNER]

Dogs are connected to their people and their daily routines. They know when they wake up, when and where they do certain chores, if it’s the weekend etc. How? Well, actually it’s quite simple…they are GREAT observers and creatures of habit. Dogs have such a keen sense of sight and smell that helps them to monitor life around them. It is with this in mind that I believe dogs do notice the changes of pregnancy. Pregnancy creates hormonal changes that affect the scent emotions and routines of their dedicated female human. Some reported changes from “Moms to be” are:

Over clinginess

Protectiveness

Elimination related issues

Aloofness

Excessive attention seeking

Anxiety (pacing, licking etc)

If you notice unwanted changes in your dogs’ behavior here are some things to consider.

1.What has changed?

a.activity level

b.your behavior

c.routines

2.How is this behavior change being reinforced? “Dogs do what works for them.” Why and how is this behavior working for your dog?

3.When did this change begin? Have you ever seen this behavior before? If so, when?

4.Could there be any medical reason.



All pregnancies, and the circumstances surrounding them, are unique and very individual. There are many new experiences with each pregnancy. This can lead to good or sometimes uncomfortable stress. Family pets may react to this along with the other previously mentioned factors. Consistent leadership and obedience help to keep our companions grounded during your pregnancy. There is a great deal to learn and do prior to the arrival of the baby. The good news is there is a great deal of support and information on preparing your dog for life with kids. If you notice a change in your dog’s behavior that concerns you contact your vet

Dog Article courtesy of http://www.dogsandstorks.com

Ty was definitely more sensitive to me when I was pregnant and he was great company too especially when I went overdue and was bored, uncomfy and grumpy!
He's also an angel with my little one, he cocks his head and looks all concerned if she cries! Ahh. Love em both to bits.
x

[LOVEGSD]

Originally Posted by aitchparki

Ty was definitely more sensitive to me when I was pregnant and he was great company too especially when I went overdue and was bored, uncomfy and grumpy!
He's also an angel with my little one, he cocks his head and looks all concerned if she cries! Ahh. Love em both to bits.
x

Aaww that sounds so cute....I think it's great that Ty's accepted your little girl and looks concerned when she cries.....such great family dogs

[Sully Monster]

I know this is an old thread but I have to agree that yes dogs know. My old dog knew I was pregnant with my first child before I even knew. He went ultra protective of me practically from the day of conception and stayed that way even after the baby was born. He became my baby's protector too and was absolutely amazing with her. When we brought her home he just sort of looked at her as if to say "well I see you're here then!". There was no shock or jealousy as it was as if he knew she was coming.

[mariecq56]

This is just great..reading about this topic bec. my daughter is pregnant and due in Dec. So far I haven't notice any change of behavior from Fred. My daughter and her husband are wondering how he will react to the newcommer when they come for a visit during the christmas holidays. Any tips are welcome.

[joyce]

Marie
Let him meet the baby so his curiosity is satisfied and that should be it realy the times to watch are when the baby crys some dogs get concerned then. get a baby gate fitted up for when the baby starts to crawl just to give the dog some rest

We had a lady at training recently with a labrador and when she got prenant her dog definitly knew!
She would no longer do stays and didnt like being apart from her owner.

Now she has had the baby the dog is settling down again slowly