Instruction: how to assist a dog whelping at home.

1. Preparation Before Labor

1.1 Assembling a Whelping Kit

As an experienced canine breeder, I recommend gathering every item a newborn litter may require before labor begins. A well‑stocked kit reduces stress, prevents contamination, and supports both dam and puppies throughout the critical first days.

Clean, low‑pile towels (minimum six) for drying and handling newborns.
Heat‑resistant heating pad or hot water bottle, covered with a blanket, set to 95‑100 °F.
Disposable gloves (non‑latex) to maintain hygiene while handling puppies.
Sterile scissors and blunt‑ended tweezers for umbilical cord care.
Antiseptic solution (e.g., diluted chlorhexidine) for cord cleaning.
Small, pre‑weighed food bowls and water dishes for the dam’s increased intake.
High‑calorie, lactation‑supporting diet (wet or kibble) stored in airtight containers.
Emergency contact numbers for a veterinarian experienced in obstetrics.
Record‑keeping notebook or digital device to log birth times, weights, and health observations.

Arrange the supplies in a single, easily accessible container-such as a sturdy tote with compartments-so that everything can be retrieved without moving the dam. Place the heating source beneath a soft, washable blanket to create a warm nest, then lay towels and the prepared bowls nearby. Keep antiseptic solution and cord‑care tools within arm’s reach, but separate from food items to avoid cross‑contamination.

Before labor starts, test the heating pad with a thermometer to verify temperature stability. Replace towels daily, laundering them at high heat to eliminate bacteria. Stock extra gloves and antiseptic solution in case of unexpected complications. Regularly review the checklist to confirm that no component is missing or expired.

By assembling these materials in advance, you create a controlled environment that maximizes the dam’s comfort and the puppies’ survival chances during the home‑based birthing process.

1.2 Creating a Whelping Area

When preparing a space for a litter, prioritize stability, hygiene, and temperature control. Choose a quiet room away from household traffic; a spare bedroom or garage corner works well if insulated. Ensure the area can be isolated with a pet gate or a portable pen to prevent accidental disturbances.

Maintain a constant ambient temperature of 78-80 °F (25-27 °C) throughout the first three weeks. Use a thermostatically regulated heating pad placed beneath a layer of blankets, not directly against the dam’s skin. Monitor temperature twice daily with a digital thermometer and adjust heating sources to avoid overheating or chilling.

Select bedding that is absorbent, washable, and non‑slipping. A combination of low‑pile blankets and a waterproof liner provides comfort while simplifying cleanup. Arrange the bedding in a shallow depression to contain fluids and reduce the dam’s effort when rolling.

Sanitize the area before the dam arrives. Disinfect surfaces with a veterinary‑approved cleaner, rinse thoroughly, and allow to dry completely. Keep cleaning supplies, disposable gloves, and a waste container within arm’s reach to facilitate immediate response to messes.

Equip the whelping zone with essential items:

Heating pad with thermostat
Waterproof liner and several sets of clean blankets
Scissors for umbilical cord care
Disposable gloves and antiseptic solution
Scale for weighing puppies daily
Soft, low‑profile lighting to reduce stress

Arrange these tools in a designated corner, leaving the central space clear for the dam and her puppies. Regularly inspect the setup for wear, moisture buildup, or temperature fluctuations, and replace or adjust components as needed. This systematic approach creates a secure, comfortable environment that supports a successful delivery and early neonatal care.

1.3 Consulting with Your Veterinarian

When a canine is preparing to give birth, professional guidance is essential. Schedule a pre‑whelping appointment to review the dam’s health history, vaccination status, and any medications that could affect labor. Bring recent blood work, ultrasound images, and a list of supplements; the veterinarian can confirm that hormone levels and nutritional needs are optimal.

During the consultation, request a clear plan for normal labor and a separate protocol for complications. Ask the vet to identify warning signs-such as prolonged contractions without delivery, excessive bleeding, or a temperature that does not drop below 99 °F (37.2 °C) after 24 hours. Confirm the recommended dosage and timing of any prescribed drugs, including oxytocin or analgesics, and verify storage instructions for emergency kits.

If the breeder cannot travel to a clinic, arrange a telemedicine session. Provide high‑resolution photos or video of the dam’s abdomen and behavior; the veterinarian can assess fetal positioning and advise on environmental adjustments (temperature, humidity, bedding). Ensure the vet supplies contact information for an on‑call emergency service that can be reached at any hour.

Prepare a written checklist based on the veterinarian’s recommendations:

Confirm availability of sterile gloves, sutures, and a clean delivery area.
Stock emergency medications with exact dosages.
Keep the veterinarian’s phone number, after‑hours line, and nearest emergency clinic address readily accessible.
Record the dam’s baseline temperature and heart rate for quick comparison during labor.

Finally, schedule a post‑whelping follow‑up within 48 hours to evaluate the dam’s recovery, assess pup viability, and address any lactation issues. Continuous communication with the veterinary professional reduces risk and supports a successful home birth.

2. Recognizing the Stages of Labor

2.1 Pre-Labor Signs

A whelping dog typically displays a predictable set of pre‑labor indicators that signal the onset of delivery. Recognizing these signs allows the caregiver to prepare a safe environment, minimize stress, and intervene only when necessary.

Nesting behavior - the dam repeatedly circles, scratches, or rearranges bedding material; she may seek a secluded spot and gather blankets or towels.
Temperature decline - rectal temperature falls 1-2 °F (0.5-1 °C) within 24 hours of the first stage; a reading below 99 °F (37.2 °C) warrants close observation.
Mammary changes - glands become swollen, veins more prominent, and a milky secretion may appear as colostrum forms.
Restlessness and pacing - frequent movement, vocalization, or attempts to escape confinement indicate discomfort and an imminent transition.
Increased panting - rapid, shallow breathing without exertion reflects the physiological stress of uterine contractions.
Loss of appetite - a sudden decrease in food intake often precedes labor, though water should remain accessible.

These observations, when documented and evaluated together, provide a reliable framework for determining when active assistance may be required. Early preparation-cleaning the whelping area, arranging towels, and having emergency contact information at hand-ensures a controlled response once the dam reaches full labor.

2.2 Stage 1: Contractions and Dilation

During the first stage of canine parturition, the uterus begins rhythmic contractions that gradually open the cervix. Recognize the onset by a change in the dam’s behavior: restlessness, pacing, nesting, and a low‑grade fever (38.5‑39.0 °C). The abdominal wall may feel tense as the muscles contract every 5-15 minutes, lasting 30-60 seconds each.

Monitor the frequency and intensity of contractions. A normal pattern progresses from occasional, mild squeezes to steady, stronger waves occurring every 2-5 minutes. If contractions become excessively prolonged (>2 minutes) or cease for more than 30 minutes, contact a veterinarian promptly.

Maintain a calm, warm environment (22‑24 °C) and limit stressors. Provide a clean, padded whelping box that allows the dam easy access to the floor for stretching and to her side for nursing later. Keep a digital timer nearby to record contraction intervals, which helps assess progress and identify deviations from the expected timeline.

Prepare a basic emergency kit: sterile gauze, disposable gloves, a clean towel, and a thermometer. Use gloves when handling the dam to reduce the risk of infection and to protect her from accidental bites. If the dam shows signs of distress-excessive panting, vomiting, or a sudden drop in temperature-initiate emergency veterinary care.

Key observations for Stage 1:

Restlessness, nesting, and frequent urination
Low‑grade fever (38.5‑39.0 °C)
Contractions: 5-15 min apart, increasing to 2-5 min
Cervical softening and slight opening (visual inspection may reveal a pink, swollen vulva)

Document each observation. Accurate records enable timely intervention and improve outcomes for both dam and puppies.

2.3 Stage 2: Puppy Delivery

During the second stage of the whelping process, the dam begins to push the puppies out of the birth canal. This phase typically lasts from a few minutes to an hour per litter, depending on the number of puppies and the mother’s condition.

Key indicators that delivery is starting include rhythmic abdominal contractions, a visible bulge in the vulva, and the appearance of a fluid‑filled sac (the amniotic membrane) at the opening. The dam may also exhibit restlessness, vocalization, or an increased heart rate.

Maintain a clean, warm, and quiet area where the dam can move freely. Provide a non‑slip surface, fresh towels, and a heat source set to a safe temperature (approximately 85‑90 °F). Keep emergency contact information and a veterinary kit within arm’s reach.

When a puppy emerges, follow these steps:

Allow the dam to chew through the membrane; intervene only if she fails to do so within 2-3 minutes.
Gently clear any fluids from the puppy’s nose and mouth with a clean, damp cloth.
Rub the puppy’s body to stimulate breathing and circulation.
Ensure the dam licks the puppy to promote bonding and stimulate urination and defecation.
If a puppy does not breathe after 5 minutes, administer gentle stimulation and, if necessary, artificial respiration using a small syringe to deliver a few breaths of air.

After each puppy is delivered, monitor the dam’s intervals between contractions. A pause of 30-60 minutes typically indicates a normal progression; longer delays may require veterinary assessment. Keep the litter area dry, replace soiled bedding promptly, and observe the puppies for vigor, nursing behavior, and temperature regulation. Immediate attention to any weak, unresponsive, or unusually cold puppies can prevent loss and support overall litter health.

2.4 Stage 3: Placenta Delivery

The third phase of a canine birth involves the expulsion of the placentas, one for each puppy. Immediate attention to this stage prevents infection and supports the dam’s recovery.

After each puppy is born, the mother normally chews off the membrane and consumes the placenta. Observe her behavior; if she does not retrieve a placenta within a few minutes, intervene by gently placing the membrane near her mouth. Do not force the dam to eat; allow her to accept it voluntarily.

Key actions during placenta delivery:

Count the membranes. The total should match the number of puppies. A discrepancy signals a retained placenta.
Inspect each placenta for completeness. A torn or missing placenta can lead to hemorrhage or infection.
If a placenta is retained, use clean, gloved hands to locate it in the birth canal or uterus. Apply gentle, steady pressure to aid expulsion. Avoid excessive force that could damage uterine tissue.
After removal, rinse the placenta with warm water to eliminate debris, then discard it in a sealed bag to reduce bacterial exposure.
Monitor the dam for signs of distress: excessive bleeding, lethargy, fever, or foul odor from the vulva. Prompt veterinary consultation is required if any abnormality appears.

Maintain a clean environment throughout. Replace soiled bedding promptly, and disinfect the whelping area with a mild, veterinary‑approved solution. Record the time each placenta is delivered; this data assists in evaluating the dam’s progress and identifying potential complications.

By systematically managing placenta delivery, the breeder ensures the health of both dam and litter, minimizes the risk of postpartum infections, and creates a foundation for successful neonatal care.

3. Assisting During Delivery

3.1 When to Intervene

When a dam is actively delivering a litter, the default approach is to observe rather than to act. Intervention should be reserved for situations that threaten the health of the mother, the puppies, or both. The decision to step in must be based on objective signs rather than speculation.

Typical indicators that require immediate assistance include:

Prolonged stage II labor exceeding two hours without any visible progress.
Persistent strong contractions lasting more than ten minutes without delivering a puppy.
Visible distress in the dam, such as panting, trembling, or a rapid heart rate over 120 bpm.
Failure to pass any fluids (urine, feces, or amniotic fluid) for more than twelve hours after the first puppy is born.
A puppy that remains in the birth canal for more than fifteen minutes without signs of movement.
Bleeding that is profuse, bright red, or continues beyond the first few minutes after delivery.
Sudden collapse, loss of consciousness, or seizures in the mother.

If any of these conditions appear, the veterinary professional should be contacted without delay, and basic first‑aid measures-such as keeping the dam warm, clearing the birth canal with sterile gauze, and gently positioning a stuck puppy-may be initiated while help is en route. Otherwise, maintain a calm environment, limit handling, and monitor the progress at regular intervals.

3.2 Clearing Airways

During a canine birth, newborn pups may experience obstructed airways immediately after emergence. Prompt clearance prevents hypoxia and improves survival rates.

Identify obstruction by listening for abnormal or absent breathing sounds, observing a lack of chest movement, or noting a bluish mucous membrane. Intervene within seconds of birth.

Position the puppy on a warm, dry surface, head slightly elevated to facilitate fluid drainage.
Using a sterile, soft gauze or a clean fingertip, gently wipe the nostrils and mouth to remove amniotic fluid, blood, or mucus. Apply light pressure; excessive force can damage delicate nasal passages.
If secretions persist, employ a small, low‑volume suction device with a size‑appropriate tip. Activate briefly, withdrawing the tip while maintaining a seal around the mouth and nose.
After each pass, reassess breathing effort. A rapid, rhythmic gasp indicates restored airflow.

If the pup fails to initiate breathing after two attempts, stimulate by gently rubbing the thorax or tapping the back. Should apnea continue, contact a veterinarian immediately; advanced airway management may be required.

Maintain a clean, temperature‑controlled environment throughout the process to reduce the risk of secondary infections and to support the puppy’s transition to independent respiration.

3.3 Severing Umbilical Cords

When a puppy emerges, the umbilical cord must be separated quickly and cleanly to prevent infection and excessive blood loss.

Prepare a sterile pair of scissors or surgical shears, a disposable cord clamp or hemostatic forceps, and a mild antiseptic solution (e.g., chlorhexidine).
Allow the cord to cease pulsating; this typically occurs within one to three minutes after birth.
Position a clamp 2-3 cm from the puppy’s abdomen, ensuring the clamp grasps only the cord and not surrounding tissue.
Apply a second clamp a few centimeters farther from the first, creating a short segment between them.
Using the sterilized scissors, cut the cord cleanly between the clamps. Avoid pulling or tearing the cord, which can damage the puppy’s skin or cause hemorrhage.
Release the distal clamp first, then the proximal one, checking for any residual bleeding.
Apply a small amount of antiseptic to the stump, then monitor the site for swelling, discharge, or continued bleeding over the next 24 hours.

Proper cord severing reduces the risk of neonatal sepsis and supports the puppy’s transition to independent circulation. Immediate attention to the stump, combined with sterile technique, ensures optimal outcomes for both mother and litter.

3.4 Stimulating Puppies

Newborn puppies require immediate stimulation to initiate breathing and encourage movement toward the mother’s teats. The first minutes after delivery are critical; gentle tactile cues and environmental control prevent hypoxia and ensure successful suckling.

Use a soft, warm, lint‑free cloth. Lightly rub each pup’s back, chest, and paws for 5-10 seconds. The motion mimics the mother’s licking and triggers inhalation.
Position the litter on a clean, heated surface (e.g., a heating pad set to low, covered with a towel). Maintain temperature between 85-90 °F to avoid chilling while allowing pups to generate body heat.
If a pup does not begin breathing within 30 seconds, apply a brief, gentle suction to the nostrils with a pediatric bulb syringe. Follow with a quick rub of the abdomen to stimulate the diaphragm.
Promptly guide the pup toward a functional nipple. If the mother is reluctant, hand‑feed a few drops of warmed puppy formula using a syringe without a needle, then return the pup to the dam for natural nursing.
Observe each pup for signs of vigor: regular breathing, pink mucous membranes, and active movement. Separate any that remain limp or exhibit cyanosis for immediate veterinary assessment.

Timing matters. Conduct stimulation within the first two hours after birth; after this window, puppies typically develop sufficient reflexes to breathe and locate teats independently. Re‑stimulate only if a pup appears weak, sluggish, or fails to latch.

Environmental hygiene reduces infection risk. Disinfect the area before the litter arrives, and replace towels between pups if contamination occurs. Avoid excessive handling that could stress the dam or disrupt the natural bonding process.

Consistent application of these techniques supports neonatal vitality and promotes rapid transition to independent nursing, laying the foundation for healthy growth.

4. Post-Delivery Care

4.1 Ensuring Puppy Warmth

Newborn puppies cannot regulate their body temperature and lose heat rapidly. Immediate provision of a controlled, warm environment reduces the risk of hypothermia, supports blood circulation, and promotes early weight gain.

Use a low‑setting heating pad placed under a thick blanket; verify surface temperature stays between 85 °F and 95 °F (29 °C-35 °C).
Layer dry towels or a blanket over the pad, creating an insulated nest that retains heat while allowing airflow.
Position a calibrated digital thermometer at puppy level; record temperature every 30 minutes and adjust the heat source as litter size changes.
Provide a small, insulated box for each litter or for individual puppies that need extra warmth, ensuring the interior temperature matches the nest range.
Keep the whelping area free of drafts; seal windows, doors, and ventilation openings with towels or temporary barriers.

Monitor each puppy’s skin temperature by gently feeling the abdomen; cool skin indicates a need for additional heat, while overly hot skin suggests overheating. Adjust heating intensity promptly, and replace damp bedding with dry material to prevent heat loss through moisture. Consistent temperature control throughout the first 48 hours is critical for the litter’s survival and healthy development.

4.2 Monitoring Nursing

Effective nursing supervision begins with continuous observation of the dam and her litter. Record each puppy’s attempts to latch, duration of suckling, and any refusal to nurse. Confirm that milk intake is sufficient by monitoring the pups’ abdominal tone; a soft, slightly distended belly indicates adequate consumption, while a scrawny, wrinkled abdomen suggests deficiency.

Weight measurement provides the most reliable indicator of growth. Use a digital gram scale to weigh each puppy at birth and then every 4-6 hours for the first 48 hours, followed by daily measurements until the weight stabilizes. Expect an average gain of 10-15 % of birth weight per day; deviations warrant immediate veterinary consultation.

Temperature tracking safeguards against hypothermia and fever. Place a rectal thermometer in each puppy twice daily for the first three days, aiming for a range of 99.5-101.5 °F (37.5-38.6 °C). Simultaneously, record the dam’s temperature to detect mastitis or systemic infection; a reading above 103 °F (39.4 °C) signals potential illness.

Hydration status can be assessed by skin turgor and mucous membrane color. Gently pinch the skin on the neck; rapid return indicates proper hydration, while slow recoil suggests dehydration. Pale or dry gums confirm the same condition.

Maintain a log that includes:

Time of each nursing session
Individual puppy weights
Rectal temperatures
Observed signs of distress (weak cry, lethargy, excessive crying)
Maternal behavior (aggression, neglect, excessive licking)

Review the log twice daily to identify trends. Immediate intervention-supplemental feeding via syringe, warming blankets, or veterinary care-should follow any abnormal pattern. Consistent, data‑driven monitoring ensures the litter receives the nutrition and care required for a healthy start.

4.3 Recognizing Potential Complications

When a bitch enters labor, early detection of abnormal signs can prevent loss of puppies or dam. Monitor temperature, behavior, and physical changes every few hours. A drop in rectal temperature below 99 °F (37.2 °C) for more than 12 hours often precedes delivery; however, a sudden rise may indicate infection.

Common complications include:

Dystocia - prolonged or obstructed birth due to oversized puppies, malposition, or uterine inertia. Signs: active straining for more than 30 minutes without delivering a puppy, or a visible delay after the first pup appears.
Uterine rupture - rare but fatal. Look for sudden abdominal swelling, profuse bleeding, or a rapid decline in the dam’s condition.
Fetal distress - indicated by weak, limp, or non‑responsive puppies. Immediate assistance may be required to clear the airway and stimulate breathing.
Post‑partum hemorrhage - continuous oozing or bright red discharge beyond the first 24 hours. Monitor the volume and color of vaginal bleeding.
Mastitis - swollen, painful mammary glands with abnormal discharge. Early treatment reduces the risk of systemic infection.
Metritis - foul‑smelling uterine discharge, fever, lethargy, or loss of appetite after whelping. Prompt veterinary intervention is necessary.

If any of these signs appear, contact a veterinarian without delay. Timely professional care dramatically improves outcomes for both dam and litter.

4.4 Post-Whelping Veterinary Check-up

After the litter is delivered, schedule a veterinary examination within 24-48 hours. The appointment confirms that the dam has recovered from labor and that each puppy is developing normally.

The veterinarian will:

Assess the dam’s uterine involution, abdominal tenderness, and vaginal discharge.
Measure temperature, heart rate, and respiratory rate to detect lingering infection or shock.
Examine each puppy for umbilical stump integrity, respiratory effort, and weight consistency.
Verify that all puppies have received adequate colostrum; if intake is insufficient, recommend supplemental feeding.
Perform a brief physical exam of the eyes, ears, and oral cavity to rule out congenital anomalies.
Update vaccination status for the dam and, if appropriate, initiate the first puppy vaccine series according to local guidelines.
Provide deworming recommendations based on age and regional parasite risk.
Discuss lactation support, including calcium supplementation if the dam shows signs of hypocalcemia.
Record litter size, birth weights, and any abnormalities for future reference.

The clinician may also collect samples-blood, vaginal swabs, or feces-to screen for bacterial infections, parasites, or hormonal imbalances. Prompt treatment of identified issues reduces mortality risk and supports a smoother transition to home care.

Maintain a written log of the visit, noting vital signs, exam findings, and any prescribed medications. Share this record with anyone assisting in the home environment; consistent monitoring aligns home observations with professional standards and facilitates timely intervention if the dam or puppies exhibit changes.

5. Common Problems and When to Seek Veterinary Help

5.1 Prolonged Labor

Prolonged labor in a canine birth is defined as a contraction interval exceeding two hours without the delivery of a puppy, or a stage lasting more than four hours when the dam shows no progress. This condition can lead to fetal distress, uterine fatigue, and maternal exhaustion, requiring immediate attention.

Observe the timing of each contraction. Record the start of the first strong contraction and note when a puppy is expelled. If more than two hours pass without a puppy, consider the labor prolonged. In addition, monitor the dam’s behavior: restlessness, excessive panting, or signs of pain such as vocalization indicate that intervention may be necessary.

First‑line measures focus on creating an optimal environment. Ensure the whelping area remains warm (approximately 78-80 °F) and quiet. Provide clean towels for the dam to lie on, reducing the risk of hypothermia. Offer fresh, lukewarm water to encourage hydration, but avoid forcing intake. Gently massage the dam’s abdomen to stimulate uterine activity, using slow, circular motions just above the ribs. Do not apply excessive pressure, which could cause injury.

If the labor does not progress within the next hour after environmental adjustments, contact a veterinarian. Prepare to describe:

Time of first contraction
Duration of current stage
Number of puppies already delivered
Any observed fetal movement or lack thereof
The dam’s temperature (normal range: 99.5-101.5 °F)

Veterinary intervention may include administration of oxytocin to augment uterine contractions, calcium supplementation to support muscle function, or manual extraction of a non‑viable puppy. These actions should only be performed under professional guidance.

Maintain detailed records throughout the whelping process. Accurate documentation assists the veterinarian in diagnosing the cause of prolonged labor and selecting the appropriate treatment, ultimately improving outcomes for both dam and litter.

5.2 Difficult Births (Dystocia)

Dystocia, or a difficult delivery, threatens both dam and puppies and demands immediate recognition and intervention. Early warning signs include prolonged intervals between contractions, failure of a puppy to emerge after ten minutes of active straining, and visible distress in the mother such as panting, trembling, or vocalization. Assess the birth canal for obstruction, noting any visible malformation, abnormal positioning, or excessive swelling that could impede passage.

When dystocia is suspected, take the following actions without delay:

Verify that the dam’s temperature has dropped below 100 °F (37.8 °C); a sustained low temperature often precedes complications.
Gently palpate the abdomen to locate the retained puppy and determine its orientation.
Apply a warm, damp cloth to the dam’s abdomen to stimulate blood flow and encourage uterine contractions.
If the puppy is positioned incorrectly (e.g., breech), attempt a careful reposition using sterile gloves and steady pressure; avoid excessive force that could damage tissues.
Administer a veterinary‑prescribed oxytocin injection only after confirming the dam is not in severe pain and that the uterus is not over‑distended.

Should the puppy remain trapped after these measures, or if the dam exhibits signs of shock, hemorrhage, or severe pain, contact a veterinarian immediately. Prepare a clean, flat surface for transport, keep the dam warm, and monitor vital signs en route. Early veterinary involvement can prevent fatal outcomes and preserve the health of both mother and litter.

5.3 Retained Placenta

Retained placenta occurs when a dam does not expel all fetal membranes within two hours after delivering each puppy. The remaining tissue can become a breeding ground for bacterial infection, leading to fever, lethargy, and potentially life‑threatening sepsis.

First signs include a foul odor from the birth canal, swelling of the vulva, and a rapid increase in temperature above 103 °F (39.4 °C). If these symptoms appear, intervene promptly.

Immediate actions

Gently massage the dam’s abdomen to encourage uterine contractions.
Apply a warm, damp cloth to the vulva for five minutes, repeating every hour for up to six hours.
If the placenta does not pass after two to three attempts, administer a veterinarian‑prescribed oxytocin dose (typically 0.5 IU/kg subcutaneously) to stimulate uterine tone.
Monitor temperature and heart rate every 30 minutes; record any rise above normal.

Post‑removal care

Clean the vulva with sterile saline; avoid harsh antiseptics that could irritate tissue.
Provide fresh water and a high‑protein diet to support recovery.
Continue temperature checks for 24 hours; a sustained fever warrants veterinary evaluation and possible antibiotics (e.g., ampicillin or doxycycline).

Preventive measures for future litters

Ensure the dam receives adequate calcium and vitamin E before whelping.
Keep the whelping area warm (78-80 °F/25-27 °C) to promote uterine contractility.
Observe each puppy’s delivery; assist only when a puppy is stalled for more than 30 minutes, reducing stress on the uterus.

Timely identification and treatment of retained placenta protect the dam’s health and increase the likelihood of a successful home whelping experience.

5.4 Puppy Weakness or Distress

Puppy weakness or distress during a whelping sequence signals a potential emergency. Immediate recognition and response can prevent loss of life for the newborn and reduce complications for the dam.

Key indicators include:

Lack of movement or inability to rise when stimulated
Pale or bluish mucous membranes
Weak, irregular heartbeat detectable with a stethoscope
Excessive crying or no vocalization at all
Failure to nurse or absent suckling reflex
Temperature below 95 °F (35 °C) measured rectally

When any of these signs appear, the caregiver should first ensure the dam’s environment remains warm, quiet, and free of drafts. Gently clear the puppy’s airway of fluid or debris using a soft, sterile gauze. Apply a warm, moist compress to the abdomen for 30-60 seconds to stimulate circulation. If the pup does not respond within a few minutes, administer a brief, controlled heat source such as a heating pad set to low, monitoring closely to avoid burns.

Supportive measures to stabilize the puppy include:

Thermal support - maintain body temperature with a heated incubator or a box lined with towels warmed in hot water.
Respiratory assistance - use a small, manual suction device to clear nasal passages; consider gentle tactile stimulation of the chest to promote breathing.
Fluid therapy - if the puppy is unable to nurse, provide a few drops of sterile, warmed canine electrolyte solution using a syringe without a needle.
Veterinary contact - call a veterinarian immediately; be prepared to describe the pup’s temperature, heart rate, and observed symptoms.

Continuous monitoring is essential. Record temperature, heart rate, and respiratory effort every five minutes. Re‑evaluate the dam’s behavior; excessive aggression or abandonment of the litter may require separation and professional intervention. If the puppy shows no improvement after 10-15 minutes of supportive care, transport to an emergency clinic without delay.