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My pregnant dog had contractions but no puppies. Is this normal?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Female | unspayed | 1 year and 11 months old | 53 lbs

Tara is now 57 days pregnant. On Friday, she started showing signs of strong contractions. Her abdominal muscles pulled tight and she was shivering. This lasted for about 3 hours (Temp 100 F). After that she acted like nothing has happened. Saturday was the same thing. Nothing yesterday(Temp spiked to 100.8F am and dropped to 99.7 F pm). Today she seems like she doesn't even want to walk (Temp 99.1 F am then rised 100 F lunch time). Still no puppies have arrived. Is this normal? Worried!!!

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Jessica Keay, DVM

Answered By Jessica Keay, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on October 15th, 2018

I am sorry to hear about your concern for Tara. I would recommend bringing her in to your vet for examination. If your vet has an ultrasound machine they can use it to check the puppies and ensure they are doing ok/ are not in distress. What concerns me is it sounded like she was going into labor a few days ago, and normally dogs labor will progress and not stop. I would be concerned she is not going through a normal labor, and if she seems lethargic today that is even more concerning. I would get her in to ensure her safety and that of her puppies. You can read more about birthing puppies at https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4951546
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