What Do Contractions Look Like in a Dog?
Watching your dog through pregnancy can be both exciting and nerve-wracking — especially when the due date approaches. Recognizing the signs of labor, particularly contractions, is essential to ensuring your dog has a safe delivery.
Understanding Canine Labor
A dog’s pregnancy lasts approximately 63 days. As delivery nears, your dog will show physical and behavioral signs of impending labor. Contractions are a major indicator that labor has begun or is imminent.
How to Identify Contractions in Dogs
Unlike humans, dogs may not scream or groan during contractions. Instead, you can observe the following:
- Visible Tightening of the Abdomen: The stomach may visibly ripple or tense intermittently, especially when the dog is lying on her side.
- Hardening and Relaxing of the Belly: You may feel the uterus go hard and then relax every few minutes as labor progresses.
- Panting and Restlessness: Increased panting and pacing can accompany contractions as the dog responds to discomfort.
- Digging and Nesting Behavior: In the hours before contractions become pronounced, dogs often dig in their bedding to prepare a ‘nest.’
- Whining or Whimpering: Some dogs may vocalize softly during contractions, though not all do.
Stages of Labor in Dogs
Labor in dogs is divided into three stages:
- Stage One – Preparing for Labor: This can last for 6–12 hours. The dog may become anxious and restless. Contractions start but are not easily visible.
- Stage Two – Active Labor: During this time, stronger, more frequent contractions help to expel puppies. This is when you’re most likely to notice the abdomen tightening and the mother straining.
- Stage Three – Expulsion of the Placenta: After each puppy is born, the mother passes the placenta. Contractions continue but may be less frequent.
Monitoring the Process
A whelping dog should be observed closely. Use these guidelines:
- Time the Contractions: Frequent, regular contractions often mean that labor is progressing.
- Watch for Pup Delivery: If strong contractions last for more than 30 minutes without a puppy emerging, call your veterinarian immediately.
When to Call a Veterinarian
While mild contractions are part of the natural labor process, complications can occur. Contact your vet if:
- No puppy is delivered within 30 minutes of strong contractions.
- The dog has been in active labor for over four hours without producing a puppy.
- There is green or foul-smelling discharge without signs of a puppy.
How to Support Your Dog
Being prepared can make all the difference:
- Keep a Whelping Kit: Include gloves, clean towels, antiseptic solution, and a bulb syringe for cleaning puppy mouths/noses.
- Provide a Calm Environment: Stress can inhibit labor. Ensure the area is quiet and warm.
- Prepare a Whelping Box: Give your dog a safe, enclosed space lined with clean bedding.
Conclusion
Recognizing contractions in a dog is crucial as it indicates the next phase of pregnancy — delivery. By carefully observing behavior and physical cues like tightening of the abdomen and restlessness, you can ensure that your dog safely begins the birthing process. Always keep your veterinarian’s contact information handy in case of emergencies.
