When a dog is about to give birth, it’s a sensitive time where the owner needs to know how to assist to ensure the safety of both the mother and puppies. Incorrect handling can lead to complications or even death. Follow this guide to avoid mistakes!
1. Signs Your Dog is About to Give Birth
After mating, dogs will typically give birth between 59 to 63 days. To effectively assist in the birthing process, you should observe these signs:
1.1. Nesting
- **One day before birth:**
- The mother dog will have characteristic white milk.
- She may eat less or refuse food, her abdomen will sag, and abdominal muscles will relax.
- Frequent urination and defecation (small amounts).
- **12 to 2 hours before birth:**
- Body temperature drops below 37°C (98.6°F).
- Shivering, especially in cold weather.
- Restlessness, digging, and seeking out a quiet, dark place.
- Swollen vulva with clear discharge.
1.2. Labor
- Whining or restless behavior.
- Increased heart and respiratory rates.
- Frequent straining and arching of the back.
1.3. Delivery
- A sac may appear at the vulva.
- Continuous straining and visible puppies within a thin membrane.
2. How to Assist Your Dog in Giving Birth at Home
Once you recognize the signs of impending birth, follow these steps:
2.1. Step 1: Prepare the Supplies
- Prepare a large bed or whelping box with soft materials (not too much to avoid trapping puppies).
- Place the box in a quiet, warm, draft-free corner (26-27°C / 78-80°F, humidity < 80%).
- Gather tools: clean towels, scissors, string, cotton, antiseptic, basin, and old newspapers. Consider a heat source (lamp, electric blanket) in winter.
2.2. Step 2: Assist the Birth
- When the sac appears, support it gently and stroke the mother’s belly downwards.
- If the puppy struggles, gently pull the sac until the puppy emerges. Clean its face to prevent suffocation.
2.3. Step 3: Clear the Airways and Cut the Umbilical Cord
- Use a small bulb syringe to remove fluid from the puppy’s mouth. You can also gently swing the puppy to clear fluids.
- Cut the umbilical cord about 1 cm from the belly, then disinfect with 70% alcohol or 5% iodine.
2.4. Step 4: Clean and Dry the Mother and Puppies
- Massage the mother’s abdomen to help deliver the remaining puppies.
- After birth, clean the mother and her rear area. Give her diluted saltwater or milk and place her in a quiet, clean area to rest.
3.1. How to Know if All Puppies are Born?
- Consult a vet about the expected number of puppies. If the mother is restless or has abdominal contractions, she may still have puppies to deliver.
3.2. Should You Intervene in the Birth?
- It’s best to let the mother birth naturally, only intervening if complications arise. Avoid stressing her, as it could lead to serious complications.
3.3. What is Dystocia (Difficult Birth)?
- Dystocia occurs if labor lasts 6-8 hours without delivery or if the mother strains without success.
3.4. Should Puppies Nurse Immediately After Birth?
- Yes, it’s essential for puppies to receive colostrum for immunity. Puppies that don’t nurse within 24 hours may be at higher risk.
3.5. How to Handle Complications?
- Contact a vet immediately. You can gently massage the abdomen to assist. Reassure and comfort the mother throughout the process.
3.6. Should You Use Oxytocin?
- Oxytocin may be used if the mother has delivered one puppy but shows no progress after 30 minutes. Injections should be spaced 30-40 minutes apart. Do not use it if no puppies have been born.
4. Post-Birth Care for the Mother
After delivery, the mother’s body is weak and susceptible to illness. Proper care includes:
- Providing high-protein, calcium-rich foods (vegetables, minced pork, eggs).
- Offering warm water and milk.
- Creating a private, quiet space for rest.
- Ensuring a nutritious diet until puppies are about 4 weeks old.
- Regularly cleaning the mother and puppies’ area.
5. Conclusion
This guide provides detailed instructions on assisting your dog during birth. With these tips, you can take good care of your pet and her new puppies!