Dogs are like humans, and experience as such reasonably similar dog labor symptoms. However, as a result of being dogs, they have some symptoms to themselves. We have attempted to make a list of all the symptoms they exhibit below. If we have missed anything, don’t hesitate to drop us an email at webmaster [at] dogsyptoms.org.
So, without further ado, look out for the following signs:
- Refusal to eat: Dogs always have an appetite unless they are sick or experiencing dog labor symptoms. This should always be a telltale sign, as it is one of the more obvious symptoms. Look out for it, and don’t overlook it.
- Vomiting and shivering: Just as the bitch refuses to eat, she will often vomit out the contents of her stomach. She may shiver as well. The best thing you can do is to provide her with nice, fresh water when she wants it, to minimize discomfort.
- Finding a den: As a instinctive reaction, the dog will look for an enclosed place or hidey-hole where they can give birth in privacy. One common place is under a bed, because it is dark and the dog feels safe. To avoid the dog finding an inconvenient spot, it is best that you find her somewhere or create a den before the birth.
- Temperature drop: It is usual for a dog’s temperature to drop prior to delivery. A typical temperature for a normal dog is 100-102 degrees, and when this temperature drops below 100 degrees, you will know that labor is imminent.
- Wanting someone nearby: Just like human mothers going into pregnancy, pregnant dogs like to have someone nearby, just as a comfort. It is important that you stay with her, as you should be trying to make the delivery as painless and comfortable as possible.
Of course, the only person who knows your dog well is you, so if you notice any unusual behaviour or symptoms, bear in mind that your dog could be approaching labor. Trust your intuition and always be on your guard.
Unlike humans, a dog pregnancy can last as little as two and half months, so be prepared. Talk to your vet and try to feed your dog on a high quality diet during the pregnancy. Remember that for the dog, comfort is everything, so you ought to do everything you can to ensure it. The dog labor symptoms are telltale, so be aware!
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{ 6 comments… read them below or add one }
How many hours does it take to go through labor///??
Depending on breed and size of the litter the 3 stages of labor can last anywhere from 6-12 hours. I would keep a close eye on her for any complications. Good Luck
My dog has been doing all but vomiting! She has also been walking over and staring at me for about the past week….it’s almost as if she’s wishing I could help her, or make her comfortable. She has like five options for whelping, including a play pen that I’ve added pillows to and cut a door into with a soft ramp leading up to it, and two dog beds as well as a cousin dog house! But instead she is hiding in a corner and going back in forth to the tile floor!
Her temperature has only been at or above 100 degrees twice in the last week, and more regularly between 98-99. And according to the count I had done about a month ago, she shouldn’t be delivering for at least two more days…
I’m not sure if I should expect puppies sooner because her temp fluctuates so much. But I have another dog and I’m afraid to leave them alone in the house together in case she starts labor while I’m gone!
I’ve done as much research as I can, but she is inconsistent with the temperature thing, so that’s really throwing me off. Everything else, save for vomiting at this point is right on. She has even been turning away from food all day….
I think you just need to keep monitoring her regularly for the next couples days. Not all dogs experience the same temperature drops as others, so the best things to just to continue trying to make her as comfortable as you can and watch for any possible complications.
My shih tzu amber mated 10/14/2011,her calculated date of delivery is12/15-12-19 my concern is her temp hasn’t been 100 or better at all is something wrong I’m new at this and so afraid please let me know thanx
It best to take her to the vet because this can be something serious.