This is generally the longest stage, but it can go ⦠Approximately 12 hours before the pups are born your dog's (a female pregnant dog is called a bitch) temperature may drop below 100 from the normal range which is between 100 to 102. Living and Management. The Three Stages of Labor. As you now know, a dog's pregnancy ends in week 9, with delivery usually taking place between days 60-63. The gestation period for a dog ranges from 56 to 69 days, with 63 being the average. Licking of the genitals, restlessness and a reluctance to eat are some of the signs that she is within 24 hours of labor. However, your dog could go into labor a few days earlier or later, so keep an eye out for signs that your dog is going to give birth such as: Dilation of the vulva and pelvic ligaments. It is important for you to know the beginning of dog labor symptoms, so you can get your dog into her whelping box, and also make sure you are going to be home for the big event! Being able to predict when your dog will whelp will help you prepare her and your home for the arrival of her puppies. General Practice amp Preventative Medicine Theriogenology BE PREPARED Giving birth can be a frightening, confusing and painful experience for both the dog and the owner. Although not every dog will show these signs and not everytime they act oddly means you are going into labor soon, be aware that it is a possibility. While it's mostly a matter of waiting for nature to take its course, there are a few signs that will let you know when your dog is about to go into labor. Some dog breeds cannot whelp their own puppies (English Bulldogs), and veterinary assistance will be required. Start taking the temperature of the dog twice a day during day 60 and watch for a drop in baseline temperature. You can make this prediction by working with your vet and looking for signs at home that your dog is about to whelp. Your dog will most probably require medical treatment, either for an illness or to remove stillborn fetuses. If your dog is going into labor early, immediately contact your veterinarian or call the nearest emergency veterinarian for guidance. Do this three times a day -- at the same time each day -- and record the results. Drop in body temperature. If your dog suddenly becomes your shadow â more than usual â you might be going into labor very soon. "The night before my induction my dog ⦠Knowing and understanding normal labor and delivery, as well as proper pregnancy care, can help make the process go more smoothly and help you know what is normal and when it is time to get the veterinarian involved. Signs of Whelping - 12 Hours Before Birth. Scientists and animal behaviorist claim that dogs sense oncoming labor due to a combination of scent and feeling the changes in human behavior. Stage 1 Start to take your dog's rectal temperature 2 to 3 days prior to the expected birth. 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