Adrienne is a licensed dog trainer and a former veterinary assistant who collaborates with some of the world’s top vets.
If everything goes according to plan after your dog has given birth, you should be anxiously anticipating puppies in 60 to 63 days on average.
It’s perfectly normal to feel a little anxious as the whelping day approaches, and the best way to calm your nerves is to learn as much as you can about what to anticipate. It’s crucial to become as familiar as possible with the canine birthing process and recognize the variety of things that could go wrong.
Early detection of potential issues will enable you to better prepare for them, increasing the likelihood of a safe delivery.
Learn more about your dog’s entire birthing process, from the early stages of labor to delivery, as well as how to spot any potential complications. It’s best to prepare for the unexpected because each breed of dog is susceptible to different complications and because each dog is ultimately unique during the birthing and whelping process.
Is It Bad if Puppies Don’t Move Before Birth?
No, if the puppies stop moving right before birth, it is not always bad. Additionally, bear in mind that it may be challenging to feel or even see the movement of the puppies inside the belly, particularly in large dogs and dogs that are overweight.
However, it is strongly advised to get veterinary care if the puppies stop moving and the buck is not exhibiting any signs of impending labor.
Generally, whenever you suspect your dog may be having a problem, you should contact your trusted veterinarian. The following are some scenarios in which you require veterinary assistance:
All of these potentially dangerous circumstances show that there might be a problem with the puppies. The puppies (if not all of them, then perhaps some of them) may move visibly in each of the scenarios. The puppies could be fine but not move, on the other hand.
Why Would Puppies Stop Moving Before Birth?
The final days of pregnancy are typically when puppies are most active in the womb. The puppies will have to move around a lot during this time to get into the proper birthing position.
The puppies are located in the two horns of the uterus because of the anatomy of the dog’s reproductive system. The puppies must position themselves for easy whelping before labor begins. The puppies may then stop moving or begin to move less vigorously after the birthing position is complete.
You can request that your trusted veterinarian perform an ultrasound if you are concerned about the health of the puppies at any point during the pregnancy. The ultrasound will show the puppies’ vital signs, such as their heart pumping, ensuring their wellbeing.
6 Pregnancy Signs and Symptoms
A few physical indicators that your breeding was successful, if it was planned properly,
FAQ
What are the first signs of a dog going into labor?
Stage I labor, which is characterized by restlessness and anxiety, starts once the temperature drops. You might observe panting, pacing, food refusal, and possibly vomiting. Nesting behavior begins. She should now be placed in the whelping box; ideally, she is already accustomed to it.
How long is a dog restless before giving birth?
Whelping preparation typically takes 6 to 12 hours, but it can take up to 36 hours (especially for a first-time mom or a nervous dog). During this stage, you may notice your dog: Becoming restless.
When can I feel my pregnant dogs puppies moving?
Usually, after six weeks of pregnancy, you can feel the puppies moving around. Around week five, a veterinarian can use palpation to possibly feel the puppies earlier.