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How Long Are Beagles Pregnant? Expected Term Duration

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By Nicole Cosgrove

a pregnant beagle dog at home

Whether this is your Beagle’s first pregnancy or she’s a pro, you’re probably wondering how long it will take for those adorable pups to make their debut. The average Beagle pregnancy lasts about 63 days from conception to delivery.

However, first-time moms may deliver a week or two early or late, so don’t be too surprised if the little ones arrive a few days before or after her due date.

As with any dog, it’s always best to get guidance from your veterinarian. They’ll be able to give you a more accurate estimate based on your dog’s individual health and history.

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How Many Puppies Do Beagles Typically Have?

Beagles usually have anywhere from one to 10 puppies. Litters of four are common, but some Beagles have been known to have up to 12! Beagle mothers are known for being consistent and reliable breeders. If the size of your pregnant Beagle’s litter is large, there’s a very high probability that her next one will be large, as well.

Contributing Factors

The number of puppies a Beagle depends on the age of the dam (female dog) and her overall health. Older dogs tend to have smaller litters, while younger, healthier dogs usually have larger ones.

Another factor that can affect litter size is if the dam has been bred before. First-time mothers often have smaller litters than those who have had multiple litters. This is because their bodies are still adjusting to the pregnancy and delivery process.

Even though Beagles are considered a small to medium-sized breed, they often have large litters. And that’s because they have a lot of energy and are able to burn off calories easily. Their small size also makes for an easier delivery.

white tan beagle puppy
Image Credit: Tony Kan, Shutterstock

How Do You Know If Your Beagle Is Pregnant?

If your female Beagle has been recently mated, or if you’re not sure if she has, then it’s important to know the signs and symptoms of pregnancy in dogs. This way, you’ll be able to tell if your pet is expecting and can take the necessary steps to care for her during her pregnancy.

The first step is to take your Beagle to the vet for a check-up. Your vet will be able to tell you if your dog is pregnant and how many puppies she is carrying. They will also be able to give you advice on how to care for your Beagle during her pregnancy.

There are some physical signs that you can look for that may indicate that your Beagle is pregnant.

These include:
  • Enlarged nipples
  • Swollen abdomen
  • Weight gain
  • Increased appetite
  • Nesting behavior

You may also notice some behavioral changes in your Beagle during pregnancy. She may become more tired and sleepy, and she may also be more irritable.

If you think that your Beagle is pregnant, it’s important to take good care of her. Make sure she gets plenty of rest and exercise, and give her a nutritious diet. If you have any concerns, please speak to your vet.

How Long Is a Beagle in Labor?

Beagles typically deliver their litters quickly—in as little as 45 minutes. However, some deliveries can take as long as 24 hours.

It’s important to note that you should get in touch with your veterinarian if your Beagle hasn’t delivered any puppies after four hours of labor.

In most cases, you should see the first puppy after approximately an hour of labor. But don’t panic if it takes slightly longer. Just be aware of the four-hour rule and take the appropriate action.

When Can You Touch a Newborn Puppy?

After your Beagle gives birth, it’s natural to want to hold those precious pups. But it’s important to give them time to adjust to the new world around them. In most cases, you can safely handle puppies after three weeks.

What’s more, the only time that you should pick up or touch a newborn pup is if there’s a problem or it looks sick. You can also intervene if your Beagle mother abandons a pup for any reason. Talk to your vet about the best course of action and subsequent care in such an event.

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Final Thoughts

It’s an exciting time when your Beagle is expecting puppies. Now that you know the timeframe of your Beagle’s pregnancy, you can better prepare for the big day. And of course, enjoy all the adorable puppy pictures in the meantime! With a little bit of proper care, your Beagle and her litter will be happy and healthy.


Featured Image Credit: Nina Buday, Shutterstock

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