What does a dog's placenta look like after birth? - briefly
After giving birth, a dog's placenta appears as a dark red or brownish membrane that is typically expelled within 8-12 hours postpartum. It may also include parts of the fetal sac and umbilical cord, all of which should be removed to prevent infection.
What does a dog's placenta look like after birth? - in detail
After a dog gives birth, the placenta is typically expelled within 5-30 minutes of each pup being delivered. The appearance of a dog's placenta can vary depending on the number of pups and the individual physiology of the dam (mother dog). Here's what you might expect:
A dog's placenta after birth is usually a red, meaty organ that closely resembles liver in texture and color. It has a rough, irregular surface with numerous small depressions or sac-like structures called cotyledons. These cotyledons are where the puppies' umbilical cords were attached during pregnancy.
The placenta is typically about 2-4 inches (5-10 centimeters) in diameter and is quite heavy, sometimes weighing as much as a third of the pup's weight. It is encased in a thin, membranous sac called the allantois, which often appears translucent or slightly milky.
After delivery, it's important to count the number of placentas to ensure that they match the number of pups delivered. If there's any discrepancy, it could indicate a potential problem such as retained placenta, which can lead to complications like infection if not addressed promptly. The veterinarian should be informed immediately in such cases.
In some instances, the placenta might appear greenish or have small dark spots, which are usually normal and indicative of blood clots or slight bruising from the birthing process. However, any significant discoloration or foul smell could suggest a problem, and veterinary attention should be sought.