Introduction

Bringing new puppies into the world is an incredible experience—but knowing how to support mom and her litter is key to a healthy outcome. Here’s your all-in-one guide through pregnancy, whelping, and the early days of puppy care.

1. Pregnancy & Preparation

• A dog’s pregnancy typically lasts about 63 days, though it can vary by a few days depending on the breed and litter size.
• Around day 45, x-rays can help determine the number of puppies expected.
• Increase calorie intake mid-pregnancy with puppy-formulated food, and avoid calcium supplements unless instructed otherwise.
• Set up a whelping box in a quiet, warm, and safe space.
  This box should be large enough for mom to stretch out and low enough for puppies to stay contained, ideally with cushioned rails to prevent accidental crushing.

2. Early Labor & Birth

• The first stage of labor could last 6–12 hours. Expect your dog to show nesting behaviors—pacing, panting, restlessness, and seeking isolation.
• A drop in temperature below 100°F often signals that delivery is imminent.
• Stage 2: Delivery usually takes 3–12 hours, though light rest between puppies is normal. Puppies may arrive head-first or tail-first, both of which are generally fine.
• After each pup, expect the placenta. It’s normal for the mother to consume some, but keep track—retained placentas can cause infections.
• While most mothers handle cleaning and cord-timing themselves, keep clean towels on hand just in case you need to help clear the airway or tie and cut the umbilical cord.

3. First Hours: Mom and Puppies

• This is a critical period: provide around 85°F (29°C) of warmth for the newborns until they can regulate their own body temperature.
• Ensure the whelping area stays clean, quiet, and comfortable.
• Monitor that each puppy is nursing regularly and gaining weight. Puppies should double their birth weight within the first week.
• Watch for signs of trouble: weak puppies, lack of feeding, or noticeable weight loss may indicate the need for supplemental feeding or vet assistance.

4. Warning Signs That Need Attention

Contact your veterinarian immediately if:

• Labor lasts over 1 hour of active straining with no puppy born.
• More than 2 hours pass between puppies.
• There is excessive bleeding or foul-smelling discharge.
• You suspect a retained placenta (not all were delivered).
• The mother shows signs of distress, extreme fatigue, or illness.

5. Postpartum Care and Veterinary Follow-Up

• Have both the mother and puppies examined within 48 hours of birth to check milk production, infections, and the puppies’ overall health.
• Keep mom hydrated and eating—nursing demands high nutrition and water intake.
• Continue to maintain hygiene in the whelping area and make sure mom gets short breaks to eat, rest, and relieve herself.

Conclusion

Whelping is a naturally equipped process—most dogs manage beautifully on their own. However, preparation, observation, and readiness to assist can make all the difference. With the right environment, timing, and vet support, you’re laying the foundation for a safe and successful start for your new litter.