Litter Size

Question
I have a great dane that is 63 days from the final breeding today. She has a small - medium about of mammary development, and an enlarge vulva. Our last ultrasound showed two puppies. I guess I'm just concerned that she hasn't gained any weight and doesn't seem to have much development. Her temp is a normal 100.5,and she's eating normal.

Every now and again you can feel flutters when pressing on her abdomen, but this breeding has been totally different that my other females.

Thanks,
Cyndy

Answer
Hi Cyndy

When was the last ultra sound done?

Big breed dogs can carry higher, deeper and because of their already big structure may not put on a lot of weight, especially if there is only 2 pups.  With each pup weighing roughly a pound each, it would be apples and oranges on a Dane female, what I mean by that is not a huge increase in weight.  

With large dogs we've noticed that gestation can go a little longer.  My own Mastiff waited 75 days before delivering healthy pups. If she ovulated later in her season, she could be right on time, so at day 63 I wouldn't start panicking, just yet.

That being said, she may have more trouble passing a smaller litter as there isn't the pressure.  If nothing happens within the next 2 days, I would consider taking her to the vet for x-rays to ensure she hasn't absorbed the litter.

Good luck!