How to Recognize and Treat Dystocia in Dogs

Female dogs that have dystocia have experienced a hard birth. This occurs in dogs that have exceeded the normal labor time or been pregnant longer than normal. This condition requires immediate medical care.

Instructions

1. Evaluate your dog for signs of dystocia. Female dogs that experience this condition may have vomiting or appear lethargic. There may also be a foul smelling discharged and labor may be in excess of 24 hours.

2. Contact your vet and request care. If your dog has signs of dystocia immediate care is required. If your vet feels it’s safe, transport your canine to the animal hospital. You will need to recruit assistance in transporting the dog because this task may be overwhelming for one person.

3. Create a treatment plan with the vet. If your dog appears distressed the vet may provide a sedative to relax your canine. Your canine may also need calcium and dextrose injections. In extreme cases your dog may undergo a cesarean section.

4. Provide a quiet area for your dog to heal. After a hard labor your canine will need plenty of rest. Move her bed or crate to a quiet area of the home. Keep other animals and small children at a distance while she is resting.

5. Reduce your dog’s exercise. Keep your canine in the house and keep exercise to a minimum while healing. When taking her outdoors make sure to use a leash to cut down on excess exercise.

Tips & Warnings

• Monitor your canine’s recovery closely. While your canine is recovering from dysocia she’ll need to be monitored daily. If she experiences swelling or redness in the affected area or has behavior changes contact the vet.

• Avoid stopping medication early. If your vet provides medication to assist with healing make sure to administer as prescribed. Stopping some medications early can cause health issues.