A pregnant dog may exhibit changes in behavior due to hormonal fluctuations and the physical changes happening within her body. She might become more protective, affectionate, or even distant. Additionally, increased barking can be a sign of heightened alertness or discomfort during pregnancy. Always monitor a pregnant dog closely and consult with a veterinarian for any concerns.
The most common issue most dog owners face with a pregnant dog is excessive barking. Dog parents are worried for the well-being of their pet and want to ensure that everything is alright with the dog and the baby. Let’s check out the common reasons why a pregnant dog barks more.
6 Probable Reasons a Pregnant Dog Barks More
Protectiveness
As a dog’s pregnancy progresses, her maternal instincts kick in. She may become more protective of her territory and loved ones, barking more to ward off perceived threats.
Discomfort
Pregnancy can cause physical discomfort as the puppies grow. A dog might bark more as a way of expressing her discomfort or when trying to find a more comfortable resting position.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy can affect a dog’s behavior. These changes can lead to increased sensitivity to her surroundings and, as a result, more frequent barking.
Attention Seeking
Pregnant dogs often require more care and attention. If they feel they aren’t getting it, they might bark more frequently to draw attention to their needs or to seek affection.
Heightened Senses
A pregnant dog’s senses, especially hearing and smelling, might become more acute. This can lead to her noticing sounds or scents she previously ignored, resulting in more barking.
Anxiety
The changes happening inside a dog’s body can cause uneasiness or anxiety. This emotional change can manifest as increased vocalization or barking.
How to Soothe/Calm a Pregnant Dog who is Barking More? Tips to Care for a Pregnant Dog
- Create a Quiet Environment: Reduce loud noises around her and create a designated quiet space. This will help her feel safe and reduce stress-triggered barking.
- Provide a Comfortable Nesting Area: As her due date approaches, a pregnant dog will seek a place to nest. Provide a comfortable and private spot with soft bedding, ensuring she feels secure and less inclined to bark.
- Engage in Gentle Play and Interaction: Spend quality time with her, using gentle play or simple interactions to divert her attention. This not only distracts her from barking but also strengthens your bond.
- Offer Regular Vet Checkups: Ensure she’s getting regular checkups to rule out any medical issues causing discomfort. A veterinarian can also provide guidance tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
- Play Calming Music: Some dogs find solace in soft, calming music or white noise. This can mask outside noises that might be triggering her barking and provide a soothing atmosphere.
- Use Pheromone Diffusers or Sprays: Dog-appeasing pheromones mimic the natural pheromones produced by mother dogs and can help in reducing anxiety. Consider using diffusers or sprays in areas where your dog spends the most time.
Do I need to consult a Vet if my Pregnant Dog Barks Excessively?
Yes, if your pregnant dog barks excessively, it’s advisable to consult a veterinarian. This could indicate discomfort, anxiety, or a health concern. A vet can assess her condition and provide recommendations.
How to reduce Maternal Stress during Pregnancy and Post Birth?
To reduce maternal stress in dogs, provide a calm environment, offer a comfortable nesting space, ensure regular vet checkups, and give her gentle attention and affection. It’s essential to minimize abrupt changes and loud noises, especially post-birth, to support both the mother and her pups.
Do Dogs understand Human Pregnancy?
Dogs might not understand human pregnancy in the same way we do, but they can detect changes. Through their keen sense of smell and observation, they might notice hormonal changes, mood swings, and even physical transformations in the pregnant individual.
Do Dogs act differently when someone in the house is Pregnant?
Yes, many dogs act differently when someone in the house is pregnant. They may become more protective, attentive, or even distant. These behaviors result from them picking up on hormonal changes, altered routines, and the anticipation or stress of the household.
My Dog Barks at Pregnant Women? Why and How to Stop Barking?
Dogs may bark at pregnant women due to the distinct hormonal scents they emit or behavioral changes they observe. To curb this behavior, consistent training is essential. Reward calm behaviors around pregnant women, ensure the dog has positive experiences around them, and use commands or diversions to redirect attention when they start barking.