My bitch was mated six weeks ago today. Following her previous mating she had a phantom and even convinced the vet that she was in pup until she was xrayed when overdue. This time I used the blood tests to predict ovulation and used a different dog so my fingers are crossed. (And yes she's KC reg, eye tested and good breed type :) ). Apart from having her scanned is there any way of knowing for sure that she's carrying this time? Her tummy is bigger and firmer, her boobs are growing and she has occasionally lost a bit of stringy white mucus, but last time she even produced milk, although she didn't get very big. Any ideas?

The stringy discharge that can be seen from around 4-5 weeks pregnancy (it can look a little bit like raw egg white) is considered a very definite sign. It's a mucus plug that they don't have if it's just a false pregnancy. I think it sounds like there will be new additions to your family in three weeks. :-) Have a bitch myself that is six weeks along today.

One big difference between a phantom and a real pregnancy is the degree of mammary development, which is much more pronounced in a  pregnant bitch.  A friend's bitch has just produced only one puppy (a large breed), and her body did not look pregnant, but her "udder" was very well defined and firm.  Another sign opf pregnancy to look for is that the bitch's vulva (especially if it is her first litter) remains large and doesn't return to its normal size when the season ends - also it gets larger and floppier as she gets nearer to her date.

But she's very clever - her boobs grew last time and she produced milk! We were all convinced, I even had a friend stay with her when I went out in case she started labour! They do seem to look bigger this time though - the suspense is driving me mad...I know I could get her scanned but don't want to put her through the stress ;) . I just really want one of her pups! Why have I done this to myself? Aaaargh! I suppose I'll know for sure in a few weeks.... :rolleyes:

Just an update on my lass! I was laid on the floor with her last night and she was stretched out fast asleep, I saw something moving in her tum, I'm so excited it looks like the real thing this time. Fingers crossed we'll have some pups this week! We've waited eighteen months for this so I'm over the moon! :) :) Wish us luck!

good luck!  fingers are all crossed!