How to Tell for Sure Dog is in Labor

Dog Nursing 10 puppies

One of the most asked questions that I have answered is how to tell if a dog is in labor. This is usually asked by people that are first time female dog owners and they thought their dog had been kept away from others just enough to not get pregnant.

Things You'll Need

• Observation skills
• A book listed in Resource Section for preparation

Instructions

1. 

   Observe your dog and write down all the things you think might be indicative of being in labor. From swollen belly, voracious appetite, restlessness, nesting instinct, extreme affection, seeking out dark places to lay down, excessive panting, mucous discharge, and nipple discharge. All are signs of labor and soon to give birth, or WHELP.

2. 

   Take temperature rectally with digital thermometer. If the temperature is below 99 or below that is indicative of labor starting within 48 hours. Also if it has been 61 days from tie day you are probably close to labor.

3. 

   Call your vet and let them know what is happening and ask if you need to take to animal hospital, if there is any problem during whelping. Depending on the dog she mated with, there are safety issues to consider. Especially if you own a small or a large head breed of dog. Many dogs require c-section or veterinarian assisted whelpings.

4. 

   If you are asking this question you MUST read up and have material on hand, if your dog is soon to whelp. If you are in time sensitive situation check your library or local bookstore!This book will be useful even after whelping. Check the resource box and look at barnes and noble for book.

5. 

   Get ready because normally if you have to ask this question the dog IS in labor. After all you already determined she is pregnant. I do have an article on false pregnancy that you can read. There are exceptions, but it is best to be prepared for whelping today!

Resources

• Golden-Joy Blog
• Breeding a Litter