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My pregnant dog had labor signs, then stopped. Is she still in labor?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female | unspayed | 3 years and 4 months old

My dog is 60 days pregnant and today showed signs of labour like Panting Breathing heavy Dig holes under the house But now has stopped she’s not panting she just sleeping in her welping box she ate but when she sits her belly tighten like she’s having contractions soo Iam just confused could she be in labour

5 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on April 20th, 2018

Yes, she could be starting stage II of labor. Remember, not every dog reads "the book". She may not have all the listed symptoms. Here is an article about the stages of labor and what to expect. If you are worried about her at any time you should always take her to a vet for an exam. It is better to be safe than sorry if you think there is something wrong. Taking her rectal temperature is a good way to know if she is getting ready to whelp.

( https://pethelpful.com/dogs/Dog-WhelpingThe-Stages-of-Dog-Labor )

Best wishes.

4Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Stephanie Echols, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on February 11th, 2020
thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It sounds like it could be labor signs. I would leave Sandy alone. I know it’s hard not to check on her but the more stimulus she has the more it will disrupt labor. Give her some time and space. She knows what she’s doing, it is instinctual. Good luck to you and Sandy!
7Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA
Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer
Published on November 18th, 2016
I understand - thanks for the additional details! :) If yesterday was her 63rd day, then you're right that puppies should be coming very soon. When a dog is actively having contractions, normally she is laying down and you can actually see her pushing or straining - her abdominal muscles visibly tense up, and her facial expression changes like she is concentrating or having a bowel movement. Contractions usually last for several seconds or up to a minute at a time. If she is still restless and panting, then this usually means that she hasn't started active labor yet.

Based on the time frame you are describing, I would be okay with monitoring her at home tonight unless she takes a turn for the worse (vomiting, strange discharge from the vulva, etc.). If she has not produced any puppies by tomorrow morning, it would be best to take her to the vet for an exam and ultrasound to see what's going on.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on June 22nd, 2019
Hi Jessie. It sounds like Pepper could be in the first stage of labor which can last up to 18 hours. Keep an eye on her, and if 18 hours pass without progression to having puppies, have her seen by a vet immediately. Best of luck.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on January 31st, 2018
Average gestation for a dog is about 63-65 days. Is she anywhere near her due date? Have you taken her rectal temperature? These are some things that can help you determine if she is going to start whelping any time soon. Any behavior changes can be a sign of the first stage of labor.

Attached is an article that may help you recognize the signs of the stages of labor.

http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2109&aid=930

If you still have more questions feel free to post again. Best wishes.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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