My pregnant dog is showing labor signs. Is her underarm temp accurate?

Dogs reliably deliver their pups between 63-65 days, so that should be your marker. Dog temperature varies between about 100 and 102, so her temperature is very normal. What you describe does make me think she is uncomfortable. I would recommend watching her belly closely for signs of contractions. If she goes outdoors go with her. You don’t want her delivering a pup outdoors and leaving it. If 3-4 hours go by with no progression you may want to have her evaluated by your veterinarian. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

Yes these are possible signs of labor. She could give birth anytime in the next 48hours. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. If this answer was helpful please let us know, this will be used to improve our service!

A pregnant dog's temperature will often dip down up to 48 hours before going into labor. It usually drops to 98-99, then will go back up to normal (100-102). I would watch Tobie for any other signs of labor. If she hasn't had any puppies in 48 hours, it may be best to have her examined by the vet.

It sounds like she might be showing signs of early labor, but it also could be normal behavior for the end of pregnancy. I would recommend seeing your veterinarian for an exam and an x-ray if you haven't already seen them recently - it is very helpful to take an x-ray to count puppies late in pregnancy. That way you know approximately how many puppies to expect. You should also start checking her rectal temperature with a well lubricated digital thermometer three times a day to establish a baseline (make sure it's at the same time every day) - usually a dog's baseline temperature will drop by one full degree prior to labor. If Luna's temperature drops but you don't see puppies within 24 hours you should see a veterinarian to make sure everything is okay.

Yes, it could be possible Ali is going into labor. Keep an eye on her, and if 24 hours pass after this temperature drop with no sign of puppies, have her seen by a vet. I am concerned about this temperature, it is very low for a dog. A dog's normal temperature is between 101-102.5F. Make sure you are taking the temperature rectally and thermometer isn't inserted into any poop so you can get an accurate reading. Best of luck.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Shadow. She is likely displaying nesting behavior. This is an early sign of labor. Body temperature typically drops below 99 degrees approximately 24 hours prior to delivering the puppies. She appears close to this drop. I recommend monitoring her closely as I suspect she will have the puppies soon. However, if you are concerned, please contact her veterinarian. They will know her specific case details and can give you more accurate recommendations. I hope this information helps!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Snowy. She is likely getting close to delivering her pups. Most dogs will pant, pace and become restless in the hours leading up to labor. You can also monitor her body temperature. Usually the temperature will drop below 99 degrees Fahrenheit approximately 24 hours before labor. I hope this information helps!