Witnessing the birth of a litter of puppies is an exciting event, both for the proud mother and for human companions. As happens with people, it is normal that before giving birth certain symptoms of labor in dogs are appreciated, which will allow you to be attentive to your pet and accompany her when she needs you most.
That's why at Animal Expert we present this guide to easily identify if your dog is about to bring a litter of puppies to the world.
1. Gestation time
Knowing the moment when conception took place is necessary to determine the number of days that the pregnancy has been going on and to be able to predict the approximate moment of delivery. On average, the gestation period of bitches lasts between 59 7 65 days, increasing the probability of delivery from day 62. This will depend on the breed and age.
two. Body temperature
Unas 12 hours before delivery the dog's body temperature will drop a few degrees. Normally it is at 38ºC, and can go down to 36ºC. You can take your dog's temperature through a rectal thermometer, which you can use when the dog enters the last week of pregnancy.
Consult your veterinarian about how to do this, but if you notice that it makes the dog uncomfortable, it is better to stop taking her temperature, so that she remains calm. If the temperature rises above 38 degrees and you have other symptoms, such as fever or malaise, contact the specialist immediately.
3. Nervousness
The bitch's agitation is normal when it is close to giving birth. This will make her try to get away from unknown people, especially those who don't trust her too much, as well as avoiding contact with other pets in the household. Also, this nervousness will prevent her from feeling comfortable with herself, so you will notice agitation no matter if she is lying down, standing or sitting.
4. Master's Company
Despite this nervousness, the dog seeks the company of her master, the person with whom she has the most confidence and with whom she feel safer. Due to this, a few days after giving birth she will be very insistent on wanting to be with you, asking for attention and affection.
This doesn't mean you should intervene when she gives birth unless you have to. Be with her during the delivery so she feels safe, but you should only provide help if there are any complications. It is not convenient to be excessively aware of her if she is not very receptive at that moment
5. Nest Choice
The selection of a nest, a place to give birth and raise the cubs, is extremely important for the future mother. Therefore, she will begin to look for a sheltered and somewhat hidden placewhere she feels protected, or even she will spend more time on her own bed.
Generally, it is best to respect the bitch's decision about where she wants to nest, as long as this does not put her and her puppies at risk. Place a comfortable bed in the space for them, with blankets and sheets so that they are warm and comfortable.
Labor will occur in this nest, whether she prefers to lay on her side or crouch, whichever seems more comfortable for her to puppies are born
6. Appetite
Many bitches loss their appetite 12-24 hours before giving birth, so this is an easy sign to spot. However, this does not always happen, and others may even feed while giving birth, between one pup and another.
7. Cleaning
Hours before giving birth the bitch will begin to insistently lick her genitals, both to clean the area and to relieve pain that she feels In the same way, this helps the expulsion of the puppies.
8. Mucus
As it happens with humans, the bitch expels the plug of mucus hours before giving birth, which fulfills the function to protect the uterus and the puppies from bacteria and infections during gestation.
This is yellow or white in color and may be accompanied by a little vaginal discharge. From this moment, it takes a maximum of 12 hours for delivery.
9. Contractions
They are the last symptom, and indicate that delivery is imminent. Rhythmic and repetitive movements of the belly are appreciated, which can be seen especially if it is lying on its side. It is normal for you to experience some pain during this stage.
