It’s always exciting when puppies are on the way, and it’s usually a huge event for the whole family. However, there are many things you need to be prepared for — before, during, and after the birth — to make sure nothing unexpected catches you off guard. This ensures the best possible conditions for the mother dog, the puppies, and the rest of the family.
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There’s no reason to panic and think,
“Help! My dog is going to give birth.”
Before the Birth:
Ultrasound at the Vet
Once your female dog has been bred, it’s a good idea to contact your vet to confirm if she’s pregnant and, if possible, how many puppies she’s expecting. Thanks to modern veterinary science, it’s often possible to determine a fairly accurate due date. This can help you better prepare for the birth and anticipate any potential complications.
Nutrition Matters for the Puppies
The food your dog eats during the final stage of pregnancy is important — not just for the puppies’ development but also to ensure she produces rich, nourishing milk. You might be wondering,
What does this mean when my dog is going to give birth?
Your dog needs adequate nutrition, and puppy food is recommended during the last third of the pregnancy. This food contains more fat, high-quality proteins, and a boost of essential vitamins and minerals.
The pregnant dog might not have a large appetite, or may not be able to eat large meals. So make sure food is always available.
The Nerve-Wracking Wait
Waiting for your dog to give birth can feel like an eternity. If this is your first time welcoming puppies, you’re probably feeling both excited and nervous. During the wait, you can prepare a comfortable space for your dog.
Make sure she has a quiet, safe room with a whelping box or birthing area she can get used to before labor begins.
Labor Begins:
A Natural Birth
Behavioral Changes
Before labor starts, you’ll likely notice behavioral changes in your dog. She may withdraw, become quieter, and less social. This is the moment when you can tell your family,
“My dog is going to give birth!”
The Dilation Phase
Next come the contractions. These can vary depending on the dog, but you might notice small muscle contractions in the hindquarters or groin. The dilation phase usually lasts between 4 to 12 hours.
“Delivery Stage: Puppies Are Born”
Then comes the delivery stage, when the dog experiences stronger pushing contractions. It may take some time for the first puppy to arrive, and it’s normal for there to be 10–20 minutes between each one. If more than four hours pass between puppies, this may be a sign of complications.
Birth of the Placenta
After each puppy is born, the mother will also deliver the placenta. Each puppy is enclosed in its own sac and has its own placenta.
Complications
If complications occur during the birth and things deviate from a normal labor, you should contact your vet immediately and describe what you’re observing. This might be when you start to panic and think,
“Help! My dog is going to give birth!”
But remember, the vet is there to help you and your dog. Issues might include the dog losing contractions, becoming exhausted after a long labor, or simply being unable to deliver the puppies due to their size. Always contact your vet with any questions or concerns during the process — especially if you’re worried something might happen to your dog.
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Photo Wikimedia Commons
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