Caring for a pregnant dog is a beautiful gesture. Excitement builds as the household awaits the new sweet bundles of joy that are arriving! Being fully prepared for the birth of your pregnant dog’s puppies is logically of the utmost importance. Knowing when your dog is going into labor will allow you to take care of all necessary preparations beforehand. Let’s take a look at five telltale signs that your pregnant dog is going into labor.
1. A Change in Body Temperature
According to Whole Dog Journal, the best way to determine if a dog is about to go into labor is to monitor its body temperature. They instruct you to take your dog’s temperature (rectally) at the same time, daily. You should begin this routine when your dog is getting close to her approximate due date.
Twenty-four hours before your dog goes into labor, her body temperature will drop below 100 degrees. When this happens, this is a good indicator that she will be giving birth soon.
2. Her 58th Day Has Arrived
The mark for a full-term pregnancy in dogs is 58 days. However, just like people, dogs can go into labor a little late or a little early. With that being said, if more than 70 days of pregnancy have passed, immediate veterinary care is needed.
3. Her Nesting Instincts Have Kicked In
One of the most common nesting behaviors that dogs participate in when labor is near is that they dig and scratch at their blankets and bedding. You may also notice that your dog has been carrying her bed or blankets around and is searching for the perfect spot to contain her pups. Allowing your dog to go through these rituals will help to relieve stress that she may be experiencing.
4. She Is Spending Lots of Time Near Her Whelping Box
With your help, your dog has likely already created her whelping box, a safe space where she has designated to have her puppies when it is time. It should be a secure space that is away from where people are walking, away from noise, and also away from other pets. Having a whelping box set up a couple of weeks ahead of time will help your dog become more comfortable and familiar with it. When she begins to hang out there more and more, the big moment is coming soon.
5. Her Appetite Has Disappeared
The closer your dog comes to labor and delivery, the less and less she may feel like eating. She may have an upset stomach and could be vomiting. If your dog is not eating and you are concerned, try giving her some boneless, skinless, seasonless chicken and rice.
Final Thought
Never hesitate to contact your veterinarian if you are unsure if your dog is going into labor or not. A quick phone call can save you from a lot of worry and uncertainty.
