When do fetal movements start in a large-breed pregnant dog?

Dogs generally show fetal movement at 45 to 50 days of pregnancy. In early pregnancy the puppies’ organs are still developing and the movements cannot be felt yet.

As pregnancy progresses, signs of fetal movement can usually be felt around day 45 to 50. Some pregnant dogs, however, show no movement at all, so it is best to take the dog to a veterinary clinic for an X-ray to confirm the development and health of the puppies.