Fertilization
96 hrs.
Divides into two cells
120 hrs.
Divides into four cells
144 hrs.
Divides into eight cells
192 hrs.
The morula is constituted
9 days
The morula installs itself in the uterus
A blastocyte is formed, which is still floating around freely in the uterus
18 days
The placentas are developed
20 days
The ovules have changed in shape in order to become embryos that adhere to the walls of the uterine horns; the nervous system is already formed
22-28 days
Development of eyes and spinal cords
Faces take shape
28 days
The embryos are already oval shaped & measure approx. 14-18 mm
29-35 days
Development of toes, whisker buds, and claws
Fetuses look like dogs
Gender can be determined
Eyes (previously open) now close
30 days
The sexual characteristics are already present and the eyes are covered by the eyelids
36-42 days
Development of skin pigment
Fetal heartbeats can be heard with stethoscope
40 days
The abdominal swelling is already noticeable in the mother, especially if there is a considerable number of puppies
43-49 days
Growth and development continues
45 days
From this moment on, the growth of the fetus is very fast
50-57 days
Fetal movement can be detected when bitch is at rest
51 days
The bones of the fetuses are already calcified and therefore can be seen by means of x-rays in order to verify their positioning and approximate number
57 days
The fetuses have already completed their prenatal development and are ready to be born. From the 58th day on, whelping is imminent
58-65 days
Growth and Development continues; whelping can occur 58-65 days from conception.
Lochia (vaginal discharge) should be reddish to reddish-brown (green is okay on first day).
__________________ Kimberly |