My pregnant Shih Tzu dog is panting and restless. Is this normal?

It is concerning that Chichi hasn't slept yet. The panting could be due to contractions of the uterus. When the puppies nurse, it causes the release of oxytocin, which in turn causes the uterus to contract. Without seeing her in person, I can't say if she is ok or not, so I would take her and her puppies into a vet first thing in the morning. Best of luck.

Be sure to continue to monitor your pet as closely as possible and keep a close relationship with your local Veterinarian. There are many complications that can arise during pregnancy. This shivering and panting may be due to exertion. You'll want to be sure to provide her with plenty quiet time to rest and a very comfortable place lay down.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Skye. Every dog will behave differently during labor. So while nesting is common, not every dog will display this behavior. If she is panting and shaking, she may very well be starting labor. Good luck!

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!

Hi and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Sounds like Kulet is preparing for whelping. Dogs gestation can be from 57-72 days, 63 days is the average. I would continue to monitor her. Make sure she is eating, drinking, and using the bathroom. Watch her closely for abdominal contractions. If she starts labor and no puppy has been produced for 20-30 minutes, I would immediately contact your veterinarian for advice. I hope everything goes smoothly and understand that sometimes dogs can have false pregnancies. If you didn't confirm this pregnancy with x-rays or ultrasound, you are only assuming she is pregnant. Good luck

Yes, this is normal and it sounds like Roxy could be heading into the first stages of labor if she is panting and pacing. Continue to monitor her closely, and if 24 hours pass after this temperature drop, have her seen by a vet right away. Best of luck.

Unfortunately if she is truly going into labor, there is not likely much you can do to stop the process. I am attaching an article here with information on birthing puppies at home: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&S=0&C=0&A=678 which provides lots of great information on how the birthing process goes and when to worry/call your vet. If she is truly t his early, I may consider bringing her in to your vet for a few reasons. It is possible she is panting and licking due to nausea or pain for another reason, and they may find this cause. It is also possible for the vet to evaluate the puppies for health/fetal distress with an ultrasound if the vet has access to one. It may also be helpful if the puppies are born early to have veterinary care available if any of the puppies do not do well and need help once born.