What does whelping mean in dogs? - briefly
Whelping is the process by which female dogs give birth to their puppies. This event typically occurs after a gestation period of about 63 days.
What does whelping mean in dogs? - in detail
Whelping, also known as parturition or birthing, is a crucial stage in the life cycle of a dog, particularly for female dogs, referred to as bitches. This process involves the delivery of puppies from their mother's womb and is typically divided into three stages: dilation, expulsion, and afterbirth.
In the first stage of whelping, known as dilation, the bitch experiences contractions that dilate her cervix in preparation for the birth of her puppies. These contractions can be mild and may not be immediately noticeable to an observer. During this phase, which may last up to 12 hours, the bitch might appear restless, pant heavily, or even vomit as her body prepares for delivery.
The second stage is marked by the expulsion of puppies from the womb. This active phase can be intense and is characterized by strong contractions that push the puppies through the birth canal. Each puppy is typically delivered headfirst, encased in a sac that the bitch will break open to free her newborn. The delivery of each puppy usually occurs within 15-30 minutes of the start of this stage, with intervals between deliveries allowing the mother to rest and clean her offspring. It is crucial for the health of both the mother and her puppies that this stage be closely monitored to ensure there are no complications during delivery.
The final stage of whelping involves the passage of the placenta, also known as afterbirth, from the bitch's uterus. This stage is critical for the health of the mother, as failure to pass all placentas can lead to serious infections and other complications. After delivering her puppies, a healthy bitch will instinctively clean each one thoroughly, stimulating their breathing and circulation. She will also sever the umbilical cord and consume the placenta, which is rich in nutrients that aid in her postpartum recovery.
Throughout the whelping process, it is essential to provide a quiet, comfortable environment for the bitch, with clean bedding and easy access to water. If complications arise during any stage of whelping, such as prolonged labor or the failure to pass all placentas, prompt veterinary intervention may be necessary to ensure the health and safety of both the mother and her puppies.