FAQ

A puppy should not remain stuck in the birth canal for over 1 hour during active straining; if more than 2 hours pass between puppies, veterinary help is needed.

The most reliable way to determine how many puppies your dog is carrying is through a veterinary X-ray performed late in pregnancy, although palpation and ultrasound can also offer estimates.

A puppy should not be stuck in the birth canal for more than one hour of active straining or two hours of rest between deliveries; otherwise, seek veterinary help.

Puppies are typically born 20–60 minutes apart, though up to 2 hours between births is normal. Veterinary help is needed if delays exceed this without progress.

You can tell your dog is no longer in labor when she stops having contractions, appears calm, tends to her puppies, and no more puppies or placentas are being delivered.

Dog labor typically lasts between 6 to 12 hours, though it can extend up to 24–36 hours in total depending on the number of puppies and any pauses during delivery.

A dog is likely done delivering puppies when contractions stop, she relaxes and begins nursing, her abdomen feels soft, and no more puppies are palpated or seen on X-ray.

Your dog is likely done giving birth when contractions have stopped, her abdomen feels soft, she’s calm and caring for her puppies, and the expected number of puppies and placentas have been delivered. If you’re unsure, gently palpate her abdomen or consult your veterinarian.

The 80/20 rule for dog food typically refers to feeding dogs 80% commercial food, such as kibble, and 20% homemade food to provide variety and added nutrition.

The most important ingredient in homemade dog food is high-quality protein, such as chicken or turkey, to meet a dog’s essential nutritional needs.