Overview of the Dog Birthing Process
Dog Breeds
The birthing process for a dog is separated into two distinct phases which occur shortly after the dog begins to show signs that she will be going into labor soon. This process may last up to 16 hours and will normally occur 56 to 69 days after mating.
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Introduction
The birthing process for a dog is separated into two distinct phases which occur shortly after the dog begins to show signs that she will be going into labor soon. This process may last up to 16 hours and will normally occur 56 to 69 days after mating.
Before a dog goes into the first stage of labor, her body temperature will drop and she may exhibit behavioral changes. A dog’s normal temperature is between 101 to 102 degrees Fahrenheit, but approximately 24 hours before labor begins her temperature will drop below 100 degrees Fahrenheit. She may also develop a lack of appetite and nesting behavior.
The First Stage of Dog Labor
The first stage of labor may last on average between 6 to 12 hours, and during this stage the dog’s cervix dilates and her uterine contractions begin. Signs of the first stage of labor include restless behavior, panting, shivering, and nausea.
The Second Stage of Dog Labor
The second stage of labor may last more than four hours, and it is during this stage that the puppies arrive. The puppies are born at intervals of between 45 to 60 minutes, and they may exit the vagina nose or tail first. Puppies are born with their placental membrane over their face and the mother will generally remove this membrane by licking the puppy’s face. If the mother does not remove the membrane within two minutes of the puppy’s birth then the pet owner should remove the membrane with a soft towel. Once the puppies are born additional uterine contractions will expel any remaining tissues or blood left in the uterus.
Warning Signs During the Dog Birthing Process
Signs that a birthing process is not progressing normally for a dog include:
- Straining for more than an hour with no puppy born
- More than four hour passing between puppies being born
- Extreme pain
- No interest in the new puppies
- Vaginal discharge which has a foul odor
- Lethargy
You should contact a veterinarian if you notice any of these signs during or after your dog’s birth. Your dog will need to see a veterinarian as well if she is past 69 days after the mating date and no signs of labor have appeared.
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