6 Signs of a Dog in Labor

Congratulations! Your dog is expecting. The gestation period for dogs is only 63 days, so before you know it, the pitter patters of tiny paws will soon fill your home. Here are six signs your beloved pooch is gearing up for delivery day:

1. THE TELLTALE TEMPERATURE DROP

Grab your doggy thermometer! A dog’s normal body temperature is around 101º to 102º F. During labor, your mama pooch’s progesterone levels suddenly lower to 98º or 99º F. This typically happens about 24 hours before the actual labor begins.

This may only last for a few hours, so it’s best to monitor her body temp twice daily as it can be a great indicator that you have puppies on the way. Ask your veterinarian to show you how to take your dog’s temperature.

2. NESTING BEFORE RESTING

The mama-to-be’s keen interest in redecorating is pretty telling of her state of mind. Nesting behavior can happen any time during the pregnancy. However, it’s a lot more common during the days leading up to labor. If you notice your dog trying to build her “nest” or collecting items from around the home to take to her favorite spot, you may want to make a whelping box to provide a safe and clean area for your dog to deliver.

While nesting on its own does not signify labor, along with the other signs, it can be an indication of it.

NOTE: Nesting may also occur when a dog is in heat. Even when they have been spayed, some continue to practice nesting habits throughout their lives.

3. STOMACH ISSUES: IT’S A SIGN!

Your usually food-motivated pup suddenly has a loss of appetite. Some may vomit and also have diarrhea. While by itself an upset stomach may not necessarily signal labor, along with the other signs on this list, it could just add up that your precious pooch is going to be a mama soon!

Make sure your dog has access to plenty of fresh drinking water to prevent her from becoming dehydrated during this crucial part of her pregnancy and delivery.

4. A LICKETY-SPLIT LABOR SIGN

Excessive licking of the genitals and nipples near her due date is a good sign that your dog is preparing for giving birth. Not sure if your dog is pregnant? Talk to your veterinarian as excessive genital licking may indicate a health issue.

5. BABY BUMP & BODY CHANGES

As your dog reaches her due date, her abdomen will feel much firmer and harder to the touch than previously. You may also notice your dog’s mammary glands/nipples growing larger as her milk comes in. All indications that labor may just be around the corner, and you should be expecting puppies any day.

6. MOOD SWINGS & MORE

Finally, expect your dog to transform into a bit of a mama diva as labor day approaches. It’s normal for behavioral changes to occur. She may become restless and anxious or irritable and defensive. She could go from wanting to run off and hide while she births her puppies to getting exceptionally clingy — wanting to be near you constantly when labor is near.

Either way, you can help her stay calmer during labor by providing her with a birthing space. Set up a private, quiet part of your home for delivery. Try to have your dog accustomed to the whelping box prior to labor. She will feel much more comfortable, and she and the puppies will be safer in this area, as well.

CONFIRMING THE PREGNANCY

At 30 days of pregnancy, bring your dog to the veterinarian for a wellness checkup. Your vet can confirm the pregnancy with an ultrasound or blood test. To know just how many puppies to expect, your vet will suggest taking x-rays around Day 45. This is when the mineralization takes place, that is, when the fetal skeleton starts to strengthen and hold calcium and phosphate. This can be seen on radiographs, and it’s pretty darn exciting!

PREPARING FOR DELIVERY DAY

Labor typically goes smoothly for dogs, but it’s necessary to be ready for just about anything when helping your pup through it. Be sure to talk with your vet in the weeks leading up to your dog’s labor to find out what to expect during it and in the weeks after.

WHEN TO CALL VEG

If you notice signs of labor in your dog, it’s time to get involved. If you’ve had experience with helping dogs deliver puppies before, you should be able to handle the process yourself. Remember, you can call VEG anytime and speak with a doctor for advice throughout the experience. If you do not have previous experience in delivering puppies, you may want to take your pet to VEG or your nearest emergency vet.

SIGNS THAT MAY INDICATE CONCERN:

• No puppy within 30 minutes of green discharge
• 30 to 60 minutes of strong contractions occur with no puppy being produced
• More than 4 hours pass between pups and you know there are more inside
• She fails to go into labor within 24 hours of her temperature drop
• She is obviously in extreme pain
• Puppies are stillborn or alive but they seem too weak
• Greater than 70 days of gestation have passed

At all our VEG locations, we have teams of compassionate, experienced emergency veterinarians and staff who are dedicated to helping your pet in any situation. If your dog is in labor and having difficulty, bring her to any of our locations. We’re available 24/7 to make sure your pet receives the proper care she needs as you prep to celebrate the arrival of the adorable furballs into your family!