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My dog had a C-section. Will her next birth be difficult again?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Chihuahua (Long Coat) | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 10 months old | 0 lbs

Hi so my dog once gave birth to puppies (not planned) but something went wrong and she lost 1 puppy and the vets thought the 2nd Puppy was dead but it turned out he was alive when they did c-section. I was wondering If she gave birth again what are the chances of that happening because my friends dog came over and she is looking a little fat so my question is: do you think her birthing with go wrong again or is she most likely safe thankyou!!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Dr. Strydom, DVM

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on May 8th, 2019

Once they have an issue giving birth (dystocia) and they have had a C-section they will usually continue to have problems. If I were your vet I would have spayed her at the time of surgery. Sorry to say this but if you play the odds she will most likely need to have another C-section. Every C-section causes scarring/adhesions of the uterine lining making it difficult for the placenta(s) of the future puppies to attach. If you are serious about breeding her only use a male that is smaller than she is to reduce the size of the puppies - that may help with the birthing process but will not help the attachment of the placentas. And, be prepared for another C-section.

Hope this helps. Best wishes.
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