Understanding the Heat Cycle
A dog can become pregnant until the end of her heat cycle. Cycles vary, but a dog is often in heat for 1 1⁄2 to 2 weeks.
Fertility Window
There is a relatively small window when a female dog is most fertile during her heat cycle. This fertile period often begins about nine or ten days into her cycle and lasts about five days.
Mating and Pregnancy Duration
How long does a dog stay pregnant?
The pregnancy of a dog generally lasts about 63 days from fertilization.
How long do dogs mate to get pregnant?
Mating dogs remain "tied" or "locked" for about 15 minutes. They cannot be safely separated during this time without risking injury.
Male Dog Fertility
How long is a male dog fertile?
The reproductive lifespan of a male dog often starts around six months of age. Male dogs typically remain fertile throughout their lives. However, sperm quality and quantity may decrease with age, affecting fertility.
When is a male dog unable to breed after neutering?
Male dogs are able to breed for around 6 weeks after neutering. Although they cannot produce new sperm, some dormant sperm can still fertilize a female.
Determining the End of Fertility
How do I know when my dog is no longer fertile?
The discharge becomes redder, the vulva returns to normal size, and the bitch no longer accepts the male. When discharge and swelling are absent, the heat is complete.