Changes in Nesting Behavior
One of the most common signs that a dog is about to go into labor is an increase in nesting behaviors. As delivery approaches, pregnant dogs may become more restless and start looking for a quiet, safe space to give birth. They will dig and scratch blankets, towels or any soft materials to create the perfect nest. According to the Veterinary Emergency Group, this nesting instinct stems from their natural survival drive to find a protected place to deliver vulnerable newborn puppies.
In the days and hours leading up to giving birth, you may notice your pregnant dog spending more time arranging her bedding, frequently changing positions to get comfortable, and carrying around toys or blankets in her mouth as she prepares her nest. Some dogs will also pant heavily or pace around while nesting. These signs tend to increase in frequency right before labor begins, although every dog is different. If you notice rapid changes in your dog’s normal routine and she seems focused on her bed, chances are puppies will be arriving soon.
Sources:
https://www.rochesterhillsvet.com/articles/labor_and_delivery_in_dogs.php
Decreased Appetite
One of the most common signs that a dog is about to go into labor is a decrease or loss of appetite. This typically occurs in the 12-24 hours before labor begins as the dog’s body starts preparing for the demanding process of giving birth and caring for a litter of puppies. According to Purina, a loss of appetite and disinterest in food is very common right before labor starts.
The impending birth causes hormonal changes that can make the dog feel unwell or nauseous. This leads to a lack of appetite or refusal to eat their normal food. Some dogs may even vomit as the labor approaches due to their stomach being upset. It’s important not to force food in this stage, but to keep the dog hydrated with access to fresh water until their appetite returns after delivery. The nausea and gastrointestinal upset is temporary and usually resolves once the puppies are born.
According to veterinarians, a healthy dog giving birth may go 1-2 days without eating and this should not be a cause for alarm, as long as she is drinking water. However, prolonged lack of appetite or interest in food extending beyond 48 hours after whelping requires a vet visit to check for potential complications.
Panting and Shaking
As your dog’s due date approaches, you may notice increased panting and trembling as signs that labor is about to begin. This is caused by contractions of the uterus and increased pressure on the cervix, which can make your dog uncomfortable. According to Purina, shivering is normal during this time as your dog is likely in some pain from the onset of labor. JustAnswer also notes that non-stop panting and shaking in a pregnant dog can indicate the first stages of labor. Try to comfort your dog as much as possible during this time.
According to CKCUSA, other symptoms during this early first stage of labor include loss of appetite, vomiting, and persistent whining. This stage can last 6-12 hours as the cervix begins dilating and contractions increase. Monitoring your dog closely during this time and providing a whelping box or comfortable area with towels can help. Calling your veterinarian if panting and shaking becomes severe or if you have concerns is also recommended.
Discharge from Vulva
In the days and hours leading up to labor, pregnant dogs will often develop vaginal discharge. This discharge is caused by the cervix beginning to dilate in preparation for birth. The discharge is initially clear and watery. This clear discharge can start up to 48 hours before labor begins.
As whelping gets closer, the discharge changes from clear to an opaque creamy or milky white color. This white discharge is produced by cells sloughing off along the placental lining in the uterus. The presence of the white discharge signals that labor will likely start within the next 24 hours.
Some dogs may pass their mucus plug in the discharge as well. The mucus plug seals off the cervix during pregnancy. Once the mucus plug is expelled, whelping will usually occur within the next 12-24 hours.
It’s important to start monitoring your pregnant dog more closely once you notice discharge coming from her vulva. Take her rectal temperature twice a day and watch for other signs that labor is imminent like nesting behavior. Contact your veterinarian if the discharge appears green or bloody.
Social Withdrawal
As labor approaches, it is common for pregnant dogs to seek solitude in preparation for delivery. Some signs of social withdrawal include:
- Hiding – Your dog may retreat to a secluded spot like under the bed, behind furniture, or in a closet. This nesting behavior gives her privacy during the vulnerable birthing process.
- Avoiding interaction – Your once-friendly pooch may start rejecting affection, petting, or playtime with you or other pets as her instincts tell her to be alone.
- Withdrawing to her designated whelping area – As you set up her whelping box or designated birthing area, your dog may increasingly lay in that spot as she senses labor is imminent.
This antisocial tendency emerges in the final days before labor as your dog listens to changes within her body. Do not force interaction if she displays standoffish signals like growling or bared teeth. Allow her solitude during this transitional time. Monitor from afar and intervene if you have health concerns.
Mammary Changes
One of the most noticeable signs that a dog is nearing labor is enlargement and changes in the mammary glands. As the due date approaches, the dog’s mammary glands will begin preparing to produce milk for the puppies. The nipples and breasts will become engorged and enlarge as they fill with milk.
According to Veterinary Emergency Group, when you notice your dog’s mammary glands growing larger, this is a clear sign that labor is approaching. The mammary glands may even become firm or hardened to the touch when completely filled with milk. Some dogs will start actively producing and leaking milk in the days leading up to delivery.
If you notice significant enlargement and changes in your pregnant dog’s nipples and breasts, you can expect that she will likely go into labor within the next day or two. Preparing a whelping area and having supplies on hand is recommended as labor draws near.
Increased Affection
As your dog’s due date approaches, she may become unusually affectionate and clingy. This is likely due to hormonal changes that occur right before labor begins. Your dog may follow you around more than usual and want to be constantly by your side. She may insist on cuddling up much closer to you or sleep extra close to you at night. Some dogs act more needy for attention, wanting to be petted or scratched more often. Your dog may even try to sit on your lap if she is a small breed. This increased affection in the days leading up to labor is your dog’s way of seeking comfort and reassurance from you as she prepares to give birth.
According to Daily Paws, pregnant dogs become very clingy in the last 24-48 hours before going into labor. They want to be around their human companions as much as possible for comfort and security. So if your previously independent dog is suddenly acting extra clingy and wanting more affection, she could be showing signs that labor is imminent.
Restlessness
As your dog’s body prepares to go into labor, she may become very restless. This is caused by hormonal changes as well as the physical sensations of the puppies moving into position in the birth canal. You may notice your dog pacing anxiously around the house, unable to get comfortable. She may constantly change positions from standing to sitting to lying down and back again. Your dog may even dig or scratch at her bedding or at the floor as if trying to prepare a nest.
According to Purina, this restless behavior is perfectly normal in the early stages of labor and is not a cause for concern. The nesting instinct indicates that your dog’s mothering instincts are kicking in as she gets ready to give birth. However, if the restlessness continues for more than 24 hours without progression to active labor, you may want to consult your veterinarian.
Temperature Drop
One of the most reliable signs that a pregnant dog is approaching labor is a drop in her normal body temperature. A dog’s normal temperature is typically between 101-102.5°F. However, approximately 12-24 hours before going into labor, her temperature will drop 0.5-1°F below normal.
This temperature drop is caused by a reduction in progesterone levels, which triggers the start of labor contractions. The drop signals that the dog’s body is preparing to give birth. According to veterinary sources, pregnant dogs commonly experience a temperature drop to 98-99°F in the 24 hours leading up to delivery.
Pet owners should monitor their pregnant dog’s temperature daily as their due date approaches. A rectal thermometer is the most accurate way to check her temperature. If you notice this pre-labor temperature drop, be prepared for your dog to go into active labor within the next 12-24 hours.
When to Call the Vet
While most dogs have normal, healthy births, there are times when you may need to call the vet for assistance during labor and delivery. Some signs that indicate an emergency include:
- Signs of stage 1 labor lasting more than 24 hours without the dog entering active labor and pushing
- Green or foul-smelling discharge from the vulva
- Excessive bleeding from the vulva
- Signs of distress such as crying, pacing, shivering, or attempts to vomit without producing anything
- Strong contractions continuing for more than 60 minutes without a puppy being delivered
- More than 4 hours between delivery of puppies
- Failure to go into labor within 24 hours of temperature drop below 100°F
If you notice any of these signs, contact your veterinarian immediately. Waiting too long in an emergency can put the mother dog and puppies at serious risk. It’s always better to call the vet just to be safe if you have any concerns during the birthing process.