Essential Tips for Whelping Puppies: A Veterinarian's Guide

Whelping puppies is an exciting and crucial time for any dog breeder. Ensuring a safe and healthy delivery requires knowledge, preparation, and attention to detail. As a veterinary professional, I'll guide you through the process, offering insights and tips to help you manage this critical period effectively.

Understanding Whelping Puppies

Whelping, or the birthing process in dogs, involves several stages:

Preparation Stage: This is when the mother dog (dam) starts nesting and may become restless. It can last for 6-24 hours.
First Stage of Labor: The cervix dilates, and uterine contractions begin. The dam might be anxious, panting, and shivering.
Second Stage of Labor: This is the actual delivery of the puppies. Each puppy is usually delivered within 30 minutes to an hour of active labor.
Third Stage of Labor: Expulsion of the placenta. This typically follows each puppy's birth, though some placentas may be expelled in groups.

Preparing for Whelping

Setting Up a Whelping Box

A whelping box is essential to provide a safe, comfortable, and contained space for the dam and her puppies. The box should be large enough for the dam to move around but cozy enough to offer a sense of security.

Key Features of a Whelping Box:

Size: Should be appropriate for the breed size, with enough room for the dam to stretch out fully.
Sides: High enough to keep puppies from wandering but low enough for the dam to step over.
Bedding: Use easily washable, non-slip materials. Avoid materials that can be ingested or cause choking.
Heating: Puppies cannot regulate their body temperature well, so maintaining a warm environment is crucial. A heat lamp or heating pad set on low can help.

Supplies to Have on Hand

Clean Towels: For drying and stimulating puppies.
Disposable Gloves: To maintain hygiene.
Dental Floss or Suture Thread: For tying off umbilical cords if necessary.
Scissors: Sterilized, for cutting the umbilical cord if the dam doesn't.
Iodine Solution: To clean umbilical stumps.
Thermometer: To monitor the dam's temperature.
Puppy Scale: To monitor puppy weights and ensure they are gaining appropriately.
Milk Replacer and Bottles: In case the dam is unable to nurse.

During the Whelping Process

Signs of Impending Labor

Nesting Behavior: Scratching, digging, and arranging bedding.
Temperature Drop: A drop in the dam's rectal temperature below 100°F often indicates labor will begin within 24 hours.
Restlessness and Panting: The dam may appear uncomfortable and restless.

Assisting with Delivery

Stay Calm and Observant: Monitor the dam without interfering too much. Most dogs can whelp naturally without assistance.
Assist if Necessary: If a puppy is stuck or the dam is struggling, you may need to assist. Gently grasp the puppy with a clean towel and apply steady traction.
Care for the Newborns: Once born, clear the puppy's nose and mouth of fluids, dry them off, and ensure they start nursing promptly.

Post-Whelping Care

For the Dam

Monitor for Complications: Watch for signs of distress, such as excessive bleeding, fever, or lethargy.
Nutrition: Ensure she has access to high-quality, nutrient-dense food and plenty of water.

For the Puppies

Keep Warm: Puppies need a consistent warm environment. Monitor the temperature in the whelping area and adjust as needed.
Monitor Nursing: Ensure all puppies are nursing well. Supplement with puppy milk replacer if necessary.

Common Q&A

Q: How long does whelping usually take?

A: The entire process can take anywhere from a few hours to over 24 hours, depending on the number of puppies and the dam's condition.

Q: What should I do if a puppy is not breathing?

A: Gently rub the puppy with a towel to stimulate breathing. You can also use a bulb syringe to clear the airways. If there's no response, perform gentle chest compressions.

Q: How do I know if the dam is having complications?

A: Signs of complications include prolonged labor (over 2 hours between puppies), excessive bleeding, foul-smelling discharge, or extreme distress in the dam. Contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe these signs.

Q: When should the puppies start nursing?

A: Puppies should start nursing within the first hour after birth. Colostrum, the first milk, is crucial for their immunity.

Q: How often should I check on the dam and puppies?

A: Frequent checks are necessary, especially in the first 24-48 hours. Ensure the puppies are warm and nursing and the dam is comfortable and eating.

Whelping puppies is a rewarding experience, but it requires careful preparation and attention to detail. By understanding the process and being prepared, you can help ensure a smooth delivery and a healthy start for the puppies. For more detailed information and professional training on canine reproduction, visit k9reproduction.com. Our Menifee, CA facility offers a range of services, including progesterone testing, ultrasound, artificial insemination, and more.