When our dog is pregnant, we look forward to the moment when we will finally see the puppies being born. The expected day, we will soon realize that their behavior changes radically. She will look for the most comfortable and quiet place to give birth, and she may even ask us to be with her, licking our hands for example.
But How do I know if my dog is in labor?
Prepare the nest
A bitch's pregnancy lasts approximately 63 days, but one or two weeks before giving birth she will have changes in her behavior. One of the most significant is that will start looking for a place to prepare the nest. This will be in the place in the house where she feels comfortable and safe. We may not like it, but unless it poses a danger to her or the puppies, we do not have to change it under any circumstances.
You will experience physical changes
When she is about to give birth, their breasts develop and begin to make milk. Also, about a day before giving birth, the mucous plug, which is whitish or yellowish in color, will be expelled from your vulva.
Finally, at 12-24 hours before, your rectal body temperature will drop to 37ºC (normally, it is between 37,5ºC and 39ºC), it will go to its nest and lie on its side, at which point the contractions will either have already started or are about to do so.
Before, during and after the birth of the puppies it is very important that we take good care of the mother. He has to receive high quality food, without grains or by-products, and much more affection than we normally give him. We have to think that during pregnancy our dear friend will be much more sensitive, so it is necessary to pamper her a lot and avoid leaving her alone.