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My pregnant dog is making milk. Is she about to have puppies?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

My dog is pregnant and producing milk. Does this mean she could be getting ready to give birth?

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4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 10th, 2015

In a [pregnant dog](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/pregnancy/), milk can be produced a week or so before delivery. A dog’s gestational period is about 63 days. You can also [take her temperature](https://www.petcoach.co/article/how-to-take-your-pet-s-temperature) twice daily at the same time each day to determine when she will go into labor A dog’s normal temperature is between 100 to 102.5F degrees. Her temperature may fluctuate during this time, but once her temperature falls below 99 degrees, she should go into labor in the next 24 hours.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 17th, 2016

    Dog can produce milk anytime in the week before giving birth, so I would not be worried. I would recommend taking her temperature rectally twice day. A dog's normal temperature is 101-102.5F, and once her temperature drops below 100F, she should deliver her puppies within 24 hours. A normal gestation length for dogs is 58-68 days, but if she is 69 days pregnant with no sign of going into labor, you will need to take her into a vet right away.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 13th, 2017

    Poppy is getting close to delivery if she is leaking milk, but the best way to know when she will have them is to take her temperature rectally twice a day. A dog's normal temperature is between 101-102.5F. Once her temperature drops below 100F, she will deliver her puppies within 24 hours. If 24 hour pass with no sign of puppies after this temperature drop, she needs to see a vet immediately.

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    Answered By Jenna Beyer, DVM, MBA, cVMA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on June 9th, 2019

    Possibly. If she is more than 60 days from breeding it is more likely. Keep an eye on her. If you start to see contractions and there are no puppies produced within an hour or two, she may need to be checked out by the vet.

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