What is Relaxin and why is it important?
Relaxin is a polypeptide hormone that is primarily produced by the placenta in pregnant dogs. Some contributions to its production also come from the uterus and ovaries. This hormone plays a vital role in preparing the female dog’s body for birth by loosening pelvic ligaments, softening the cervix, and helping to maintain the uterine environment to support fetal development.
Relaxin levels start becoming detectable around 20 to 28 days after ovulation, peaking about two to three weeks before birth. After whelping, relaxin levels decline but may remain slightly elevated for several weeks. Because relaxin is only present during actual pregnancy (and not during pseudopregnancy), it serves as a highly specific indicator of pregnancy in dogs.
Relaxin as a pregnancy detection marker
Since relaxin is produced only during pregnancy, testing for its presence in a dog's blood is a reliable and non-invasive method of confirming pregnancy. The Bellylabs Pregnancy Test for Dogs is a convenient at-home testing option that detects relaxin levels in a small blood sample. With a simple procedure, results can be obtained within 10-15 minutes, offering pet owners and breeders a fast and accurate way to confirm pregnancy.
The Bellylabs test is 96% accurate when used at the recommended time—28 days post-ovulation. Early detection allows owners to prepare for the needs of a pregnant dog, ensuring she receives proper nutrition, medical care, and a stress-free environment for a healthy pregnancy.
Other methods of detecting dog pregnancy
While relaxin testing is a highly specific and reliable method for pregnancy confirmation, there are other ways to detect gestation in dogs. Here are some commonly used alternatives:
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Ultrasound – This is one of the most effective veterinary methods for pregnancy detection. An ultrasound can confirm pregnancy as early as 21 days post-ovulation and provides insight into fetal viability by detecting heartbeats. However, it does not always provide an accurate count of the puppies.
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Palpation – A skilled veterinarian can sometimes detect pregnancy by gently palpating the abdomen to feel for developing embryos. This method is typically most effective between days 28-35 of gestation. However, it requires expertise and may not always be conclusive, especially if the dog is overweight or tense during the examination.
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X-ray (Radiography) – Around day 55 of gestation, an X-ray can be used to confirm pregnancy and provide an accurate count of puppies by visualizing their skeletons. This is often recommended for breeders who need to know the expected litter size before delivery.
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Behavioral and physical changes – Some dog owners may notice subtle signs of pregnancy, such as changes in appetite, increased affection, or slight weight gain. However, these signs are not definitive as they can also occur in cases of pseudopregnancy.
Why choose relaxin-based testing?
While ultrasounds and X-rays are valuable diagnostic tools, they typically require a visit to the veterinarian, which can be stressful for some dogs. Palpation requires professional experience and does not provide 100% confirmation. In contrast, relaxin-based pregnancy tests, like the Bellylabs Pregnancy Test, offer a quick, easy, and stress-free way to confirm pregnancy at home.
By using the Bellylabs test, dog owners and breeders can obtain early confirmation of pregnancy, allowing them to take the necessary steps to ensure a healthy and well-managed gestation period.
Conclusion
Relaxin is a crucial hormone in canine pregnancy, supporting both fetal development and parturition. Its presence in the bloodstream provides a highly specific marker for pregnancy detection, making relaxin testing one of the most convenient and reliable methods available. While other diagnostic tools like ultrasounds, X-rays, and palpation exist, the Bellylabs Pregnancy Test provides an accessible at-home alternative that ensures peace of mind for dog owners.
Early and accurate pregnancy detection enables better care, preparation, and management, ensuring a safe and healthy pregnancy journey for both the mother and her puppies.
