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My dog just had puppies, why is she panting and not drinking water?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 3 months old | 5 lbs

My dog gave birth last night & everything seems to be doing fine but I’m a little concerned that she’s still panting a lot as if she was very hot even when we take her out for restroom breaks. Also she’s been eating a lot but not drinking water.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Claudia Fioravanti

Veterinarian

Published on April 11th, 2018

The panting should gradually settle after labour has finished . Unless it is just happening on and off which could be normal, if mum Is separated from puppies to go to the toilet for example. If it does persist she could be running a temperature or she could have more puppies in her tummy. This might not be the case, and it might just be normal for her but just to give you different scenarios so that if she continues to be unsettled you take her to see a vet.
With regards to her water intake, always leave plenty of fresh water available and if you are worried about not drinking as she normally does add some water in her food. Hope everything continues to go well !

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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