What to do if the dog gives birth? - briefly
If your dog is giving birth, it's crucial to provide a quiet, comfortable environment for her and her puppies. Monitor the birthing process closely, but only intervene if necessary, such as if there are signs of distress or prolonged labor.
What to do if the dog gives birth? - in detail
If your dog is giving birth, it's essential to be prepared and know what to expect. Here are some key steps to ensure a smooth birthing process:
Firstly, familiarize yourself with the signs of labor in dogs. These include nesting behavior, such as digging or moving blankets around, restlessness, panting, and a drop in body temperature. Once you notice these signs, it's time to prepare for the birth.
Create a comfortable and quiet whelping box for your dog. This should be a safe, enclosed space where she can give birth undisturbed. Line the box with clean towels or blankets to provide comfort and warmth for both the mother and puppies. Place this box in a warm, draft-free area of your home.
Monitor your dog's temperature regularly during labor. A normal body temperature for dogs is between 100°F and 102°F (37.8°C to 38.9°C). If it drops below 99°F (37.2°C), contact your veterinarian immediately, as this could indicate a problem.
The birthing process typically consists of three stages: dilation, delivery, and expulsion of the placenta. During dilation, you may notice your dog straining but not producing any puppies. This stage can last from 12 to 24 hours. If it extends beyond 24 hours without any signs of progress, seek veterinary assistance.
During delivery, the first puppy should arrive within two hours after the onset of strong contractions. Puppies usually arrive at intervals of 30 minutes to two hours. If more than two hours pass between puppies, or if your dog is straining without producing a puppy for more than 30 minutes, contact your veterinarian promptly.
After each puppy is born, ensure that the mother licks and cleans it to stimulate breathing. The umbilical cord should be broken by the mother chewing through it. If she doesn't do this within a few minutes, you can carefully tie off the cord with dental floss or clean string about an inch from the puppy's body and cut it.
Once all the puppies are born, monitor your dog for the expulsion of the placenta. This should occur shortly after each puppy is delivered. If any placentas are retained, contact your veterinarian. Retained placentas can lead to serious infections.
Throughout the birthing process, keep a close eye on your dog's behavior and health. If you notice anything unusual or if labor seems prolonged, do not hesitate to seek professional help. Your veterinarian is there to support both you and your dog during this important event.