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7 dog pregnancy test kits to use at home [2023]

Pregnancy in dogs is relatively short compared to humans. It is about nine weeks total, but each day of dog pregnancy matters. So, you may need a dog pregnancy test to make sure everything is OK.

dog pregnancy test

Do you need to get yourself ready for canine pregnancy testing and what’s coming after? Don’t worry, we have a comprehensive article that details everything you need to know about the dog pregnancy test.

List of Dog Pregnancy Test Kits and Tools

We’ve studied the options for a selection of the best dog pregnancy test kits and narrowed it down to seven products. You’ll find the reviews below. We also added the pros and cons for each. If you already know what you need, then here are the links to products:

  1. Synbiotics Canine and Feline Pregnancy Test Kit (5 Tests)
  2. Rubsy Early Pregnancy Test Strips Dog Cat Detection Gravidity Diagnostic Paper
  3. Draminski Dog Pregnancy Detector with Probe, Genuine Product
  4. Natures Farmacy Novodog Ovulation Sticks
  5. DNYSYSJ Pet Ovulation Detector Dog Pregnancy Planning Canine Breeder Tester
  6. Draminski DOD2 Deluxe Dog Ovulation Detector
  7. TABO DD Dog Ovulation Detector Tester for Breeders, Automatic Dog Ovulation Detector Tester Pregnancy Planning Canine Mating

Dog pregnancy can be challenging to determine, especially for first-time pet parents. If your female dog expects an upcoming precious litter of pups, she requires the utmost care and attention from her owners.

7 Signs of Pregnancy in Dogs

How can you tell if a dog is pregnant without going to the vet? Well, it’s a common question asked by many dog parents and breeders.

Have you noticed your dog getting less active or eating less of her evening meals? These can be signs of pregnancy in dogs. Here are some of the typical dog pregnancy symptoms to look out for:

Changes in size and color of nipples

During the early stages of pregnancy, the female dog’s nipples grow in size. Due to increased blood flow, you may also notice a change in the color of the nipples. Your dog’s nipples might turn a slightly darker red than usual. During the later stages of pregnancy, your dog’s nipples may leak milk occasionally.

Changes in appetite

The appetite of a pregnant dog can fluctuate in several ways. This depends on the dog and her pregnancy. During the early stages of pregnancy, you may notice a decrease in her appetite. Your dog may eat less or even vomit occasionally. She may also become a picky eater or eat more than usual. After all, she’s carrying cuties and requires extra calories. These appetite instabilities are due to your dog’s changing hormones.

Weight gain around the abdomen

It is normal to put on extra pounds during pregnancy. An enlarged abdomen is one of the most precise indicators of your dog’s pregnancy. This usually happens in the later stages of pregnancy. So, if you notice an enlarged abdomen along with other signs, it’s time to see the vet. Usually, weight gain is not seen until about seven weeks of pregnancy.

Nesting behavior

Expecting dogs want to find a secure and comfortable spot for their newborn puppies. During the later stages of pregnancy, you may notice your dog begin to rip out blankets, bedding, and other available materials to create a nest. She may gather toys in the designated area. During this time, your female dog may also become anxious, irritable, and get very protective.

Less active

If you notice your female dog become less energetic and lazy, it may indicate that she is pregnant. The pregnant dog quickly becomes exhausted and spends more time napping. Her activity level will return to normal after her puppies are born.

Mucus discharge

A slight mucus discharge may occur in female dogs at approximately one month into the pregnancy. This keeps bacteria out of the uterus and protects the fetuses.

Strange behavior

A pregnant dog might show unusual and strange behavior. Some female dogs ask for extra attention, while others might seek isolation. She may seem irritable when given attention and may also tend to bite.

pregnant dogs standing on the ground

It is essential to act promptly on dog pregnancy symptoms to ensure a strong immune system by giving them high-calorie dog food. This will ensure a safe birth for your precious puppies.

You should remember that these symptoms are not the definite answer to canine pregnancy. Sometimes Mother Nature plays tricks! There is a syndrome called false pregnancy or pseudopregnancy in dogs. When a female dog is not pregnant, her hormones fluctuate as if she is expecting. This is the reason you need reliable canine pregnancy testing.

It can be challenging to tell false pregnancy from an actual pregnancy. A vet should evaluate your female dog to determine if she is carrying cuddly fluff balls or not.

When you have made sure your dog is pregnant and then you may consider getting a waterproof dog bed for her.

Top 7 Dog Pregnancy Test Kits

Many signs of dog pregnancy can go unnoticed by owners. It is essential to understand the options that are available for accurate dog pregnancy testing. We answer your question “Where can I get a dog pregnancy test?”

We are here to help you in selecting the best dog pregnancy detection kit for your furry friend. Here are the top 7 best dog pregnancy testing kits of 2021, all available for you to buy today.

1. Synbiotics Canine and Feline Pregnancy Test Kit (5 Tests)

synbiotics canine and feline pregnancy test kit

The Witness Relaxin Test Kit is used for the detection of the hormone relaxin in canine blood. The presence of significant amounts of this hormone is a reliable indicator of pregnancy.

This pregnancy detection kit can be used early on for the detection of planned or unplanned pregnancy. It also detects false pregnancy or diagnoses fetal resorption or spontaneous abortion.

The kit measures relaxin produced by the developing placenta(s) in plasma and serum samples. All it requires is a small blood sample, and the results are nearly instantaneous. It is easy to use and minimizes the margin for human error.

The pregnancy test kit comes in packs of five, which makes it an economical option and super accurate. If you need frequent testing, these are the way to go.

Key Features

  • Brand: Synbiotics
  • Age Description: All life stages
  • Five tests in each kit
  • Read results at 10 minutes.
  • Diagnose fetal resorption or spontaneous abortion
  • Early detection of planned or unplanned pregnancy
  • Detection of pregnancy before or after abortion treatment
  • Early detection of false pregnancy

Pros

  • Extended shelf life
  • No refrigeration required
  • These home dog pregnancy tests are easy to use
  • Early detection at home dog pregnancy test
  • Give results quickly
  • Give accurate results; no false positives with this test.

Cons

  • Some people have trouble drawing the blood sample
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2. rubsy early pregnancy test strips dog cat detection gravidity diagnostic paperRubsy Early Pregnancy Test Strips Dog Cat Detection Gravidity Diagnostic Paper

Ruby early detection pregnancy test strips give a reliable assessment of the pregnancy status of your dog. It detects pregnancy as early as 20 days and offers accurate results with a simple operation. Each set of test cards provide all the test consumables.

You need to collect fresh whole blood or serum for pregnancy testing. The results can appear quickly, which is excellent for those who feel anxious about the outcome.

Key Features

  • Brand: Rubsy
  • Includes 1 set of an early pregnancy test card
  • The package includes a sealed test strip, disposal dropper, blood collection set, and Buffer.
  • Safe and hygienic independent sealed packaging
  • Specimen: Serum or whole blood
  • Can detect pregnancy as early as 20 days
  • Do not need refrigeration.

Pros

  • Quick pregnancy test
  • The dog pregnancy tests give accurate results
  • Simple operation
  • This pregnancy test for dogs is easy to use

Cons

  • You need to draw the blood of your dog, which might be cumbersome

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3. Draminski Dog Pregnancy Detector with Probe, Genuine Productdraminski dog pregnancy detector with probe genuine product

Draminski Pregnancy Detector is an ultrasound pregnancy tester for dogs that determines pregnancy by locating amniotic fluid in the uterus. This device uses the phenomenon of ultrasonic wave reflection.

The package includes an ultrasound pregnancy detector, 2xBNC connecting cable, ultrasonic probe, bottle of liquid paraffin, one alkaline battery, transport case with foam insert, and operation manual.

It is designed to produce the highest efficiency of an early diagnosis that helps you make the right decision when organizing breeding. This one is easy to use, and you don’t need to worry about drawing your dog’s blood sample. This device will give invaluable help in professional and individual dog breeding.

Key Features

  • Brand: Draminski
  • Ultrasound Pregnancy Tester
  • Includes operational manual
  • Suitable for professional and individual dog breeding
  • Includes transport case for portability

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Ensures fast results
  • Maximum accuracy
  • Very high effectiveness of diagnosis
  • Early diagnosis of pregnancy
  • No need to draw blood

Cons

  • Expensive
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4. novodog ovulation sticks find the best time to breedNatures Farmacy Novodog Ovulation Sticks

Nature’s Farmacy Novodog Ovulation Sticks can help you determine when the optimum time for mating should take place. They measure directly on the enzymes affected when the level of glucose in the bitch is increasing. These sticks also measure the level of estrogen.

It works by inserting the stick in the dog’s vagina. The sticks are fully portable and determine an optimum time for canine mating.

These Ovulation Sticks are cheap, easy to use at home, and are less stressful on your dog. They are perfect for breeders who experience problems with effective mating.

Key Features

  • Brand: Natures Farmacy
  • Item form: sticks
  • The package includes ten sticks.
  • Vaginal swabs
  • It helps to identify ‘silent heat.’
  • Suitable for female dogs who have irregular estrus cycles

Pros

  • Very easy to use
  • No need to draw blood
  • Great to tell when a female is ready to be breed
  • Eliminates the stress related to repeated attempts at mating
  • Reduction of costly visits to the vet
  • Portable
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Gives inaccurate results when exposed to moisture or sunlight

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5. DNYSYSJ Pet Ovulation Detector Dog Pregnancy Planning Canine Breeder Testerpet ovulation detector dog pregnancy planning canine breeder tester canine detecting mating testing machine

Dnysysj pet ovulation detector makes it easier to determine an optimum mating time for female dogs. It enables users to detect an asymptomatic estrous period.

This ovulation detector is easy to use. It works by inserting the probe with two electrodes into the dog’s vagina and reading the measurement.

In addition to detecting the optimum time for breeding, this device is also used to confirm early pregnancy (from 19 to 23 days following mating).

Key Features

  • Brand: Dnysysj
  • Material: plastic, metal
  • Electronic estrous detector
  • Confirms early pregnancy
  • Powered by battery
  • Measurements are easy to make
  • Includes a water-resistant storage case
  • Identify false heat, silent heat, and Ovarian Cycle Disorder.

Pros

  • Detects the optimum time for breeding
  • It makes insemination more effective.
  • Easy to clean and disinfect
  • Portable device
  • Effective in Time Saving
  • Reduction of costly visits to the vet
  • Safer to use

Cons

  • Expensive
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6. Draminski DOD2 Deluxe Dog Ovulation Detector

draminski dod2 deluxe dog ovulation detectorDraminski DOD2 Deluxe Dog Ovulation Detector is an ideal device for breeders who experience problems with effective mating. It uses the relationship between changes in the electrical resistance of mucus and the appearance of estrous.

Draminski Dog Ovulation Detector has a USB interface for reading and transmitting data to a computer. It uses software for data measurement and archiving. You can generate reports, graphs, and Excel Spreadsheets.

The pregnancy test kit includes the following items: an Ovulation Detector, a transport case with a foam insert, a user manual, 4 AA-type batteries, a USB cable for communication with a computer, lanyard.

Key Features

  • Brand: Draminski
  • USB interface
  • Measurements are easy to make
  • It comes with a user manual.
  • Powered by four batteries
  • Includes transport case with a foam insert
  • Completely safe

Pros

  • Portable device
  • Helps to reduce expensive visits to the vet
  • Eliminates the stress related to repeated attempts at mating
  • It makes insemination more effective.
  • Easy to clean
  • Detects the best mating time for dogs
  • Mostly favorable customer reviews

Cons

  • Expensive but worth the money
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7. tabodd dog ovulation detector tester for breeders automatic dog ovulation detector tester pregnancy planning canine matingTABODD Dog Ovulation Detector Tester for Breeders, Automatic Dog Ovulation Detector Tester Pregnancy Planning Canine Mating

Tabodd Dog Ovulation Detector is one of the best and optimal time for mating. This device is easy to use and saves costly visits to the vet. The package includes a Dog Ovulation Detector, a portable carry case, and a user manual.

This ovulation detector helps to eliminate problems associated with disorders during the heat. If you’re looking for an excellent ovulation detector for your dog, then you’ll be in good hands with Tabodd Dog Ovulation Detector.

Key Features

  • Brand: Tabodd
  • Helps to eliminate the expense and time of repeat mating
  • Elimination of problems associated with disorders during heating
  • Powered by battery
  • Portable carry case
  • Includes user Manual
  • Detects the optimal time of mating

Pros

  • Identifies False Heat, Silent Heat, and Ovarian Cycle Disorder
  • Reduction of costly visits to the vet
  • Effective in time-saving
  • Reduce stress and expenses associated with multiple mating
  • Portable

Cons

  • There are many variables and can become confusing.

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Other Ways of Detecting Pregnancy in Dogs

According to Dr. Jessica Romine, a specialist in small animal internal medicine at Blue Pearl Pet Hospital in Southfield, Michigan, “Confirming that a dog is pregnant can be done using several diagnostic tests.”

Canine home pregnancy tests are not the only answer when it comes to getting to the bottom of your dog’s pregnancy status! Some of the other methods to accurately determine pregnancy in your canine include:

Ultrasound

This is one of the most reliable ways to detect and monitor pregnancy in your dog. It is considered a gold standard for determining a dog pregnancy. Abdominal ultrasound is done at your veterinary office.

Many dog parents and breeders will have multiple ultrasounds throughout dog pregnancy. This will ensure that the developing puppies are healthy and in good shape! Ultrasound is completely safe and uses sound waves that create images of the inside of the dog’s womb.

X-rays

If you want to count the developing puppies, an X-ray examination is a suitable choice. An x-ray helps the vet determine how many puppies are in the litter.

From day 45, a female dog can undergo an x-ray to detect pregnancy. An x-ray examination can also help in checking the bone structure of the developing puppies.

Veterinarian checking the dog

While x-rays won’t detect the developing puppies until around day 45, this is the most common way for pet owners to find out how many puppies their dog is having. Since it can be challenging to count large litters on abdominal ultrasound, an x-ray is an easy way to measure skeletons to determine how many puppies to expect.

Physical Exam

Physical examination is the most traditional way to detect a dog pregnancy. It is done through palpations of a skilled veterinarian. This can be done between the days of 28 and 35 of pregnancy.

Your veterinarian will gently push on your dog’s abdomen to determine if puppies are present in the uterus. You should not try this at home to avoid injury to your dog or upcoming pups. This method will not tell anything about the health of the puppies.

All these methods are incredibly reliable for canine pregnancy testing to detect your dog’s pregnancy.

Reliability of at-home pregnancy test for dogs

While nothing is perfect, canine home pregnancy tests have a remarkably high accuracy rate when used correctly. However, they can be tricky for several reasons.

While the canine home pregnancy test itself may be reliable, its retrieval part can make the process difficult for home use. Pregnant dogs are tested for Relaxin hormone. It usually appears about 3-4 weeks after the pregnancy starts. The relaxin tests require blood, and that’s the tricky part for most dog owners.

You need to draw your furry pal’s blood. You then need to separate the blood from the serum/plasma. This makes it challenging for dog owners to perform the canine pregnancy test properly.

Pro Tip: If you choose to use home pregnancy tests, you should still take your dog to the vet. They are able to ensure pregnant females are in good health and the pregnancy appears normal.

puppy smelling his mother

Make sure you care for the pregnant dog’s hygiene.

Do Human Pregnancy Tests Work for Dogs?

No, human pregnancy tests do not work for canines. This is due to a hormonal pregnancy marker found only in humans.

When humans are pregnant, they produce a hormone called Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG). It can be detected at home by using urine as a pregnancy marker.

Dogs do not produce HCG when they become pregnant. Dog pregnancy cannot be tested through urine as a pregnancy marker. Relaxin is the hormone that is measured by canine pregnancy tests. It can be tested through means such as blood tests, physical examination, ultrasounds, and x-rays.

FAQs on Dog Pregnancy Test

How soon can you tell if your dog is pregnant?

The fetus begins to take shape by day 22, and by day 28 or 30, a veterinarian should be able to detect fetal heartbeats on an ultrasound. Many dogs do not show any symptoms during the first three weeks of their pregnancy. All signs of pregnancy are uncertain and unclear at this stage.

How much does a dog pregnancy test cost?

The cost of a dog pregnancy test will depend on the type of test you prefer. Dog pregnancy test typically costs around $30-$60 to be performed in a veterinary office, excluding the vet fee. This cost can go up to $200 – $300, depending on the type of test. This cost includes a blood draw required as well as testing of the sample.

A vet’s office may recommend an abdomen ultrasound during the confirmation appointment. This can cost about $100 to $200 and takes only a few minutes.

Can you tell if a dog is pregnant at three weeks?

Think your dog is pregnant at three weeks? The typical dog pregnancy symptoms don’t appear until the pregnant dog is at least three weeks pregnant.

Your vet can do an ultrasound as early as three weeks after mating to determine if your dog is pregnant. The developing embryos can be detected at this stage by an abdomen ultrasound of your pregnant dog.

Is Progesterone an indicator of pregnancy in dogs?

Some people mistakenly assume that a female dog is pregnant due to higher levels of Progesterone hormones in her system. The increased level of this hormone is not an indicator of pregnancy in dogs. Many female dogs naturally produce elevated progesterone levels for two months after the stages of the heat cycle.

When dogs are pregnant they may feel the need for various minerals, make sure you dog-proof your cat’s litter box.

Making the Right Choice for Dog Pregnancy Test

Understanding pregnancy in dogs can be tricky for novice owners. Educating yourself on the process is the best way to stay informed about the whole thing.

With so many dog pregnancy tests on the market, it’s all up to you to make sure that you have got the best results. Be sure to review the different methods of pregnancy testing that we mentioned above. Your chances of detecting a pregnancy early on in the cycle will give you the best opportunity to plan. Now you know about dog pregnancy test pets at home.

It’s not just about the test how well it performs. This depends upon other things, like how you follow the instructions given with your test. You need to educate yourself about proper feeding and caring for your pregnant dog.

If you have any questions, please do let us know. Until next time, everyone!

This Post Has 4 Comments

  1. Trevor Barker

    I have always thought of getting a dog pregnancy test kit. These items are not common in my part of the world and I therefore intend to get the electric one since they’re reusable. Thanks for the information and recommendations.

    1. Priit Kallas

      The kit you can use at home is great! But always be sure to consult a vet if you are not sure what’s going on with your dog.

  2. Avery Martins

    I had to go out of town for a few days and had to leave my dog with a friend who happens to be a dog lover and has a few of her own. Well my dog definitely didn’t come back the same. Tried the Rubsy test kit and it turns out my berry is expecting. It was quite easy to use and I can definitely recommend it.

    1. Priit Kallas

      Always make sure you give proper guidelines to the people who sit your dog. So, there wouldn’t be any surprises.

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