My pregnant dog is tired. When will she have puppies and need help?

Hello and thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Based off of this information, it is possible that Willow is close to whelping. Some bitches stop eating during the last twenty-four hours before labor, and may act differently. The rectal temperature will drop below 100F (37.8C), usually an hour or two before whelping. I would keep a close eye on her tonight to see if she progresses to the second stage of labor. Second stage labor is the stage of delivery. She will start to strain. If straining continues for two hours without any signs of a watery discharge ("water breaking") or puppies, you should contact your veterinarian. Most dogs experience no complications with delivery. First time mothers should be attended by their owners until at least one or two puppies have been born. I hope this is helpful!

I would take her temperature rectally twice a day, as this will give you an accurate idea of when she will have her puppies. A dog's normal temperature is between 101-102.5F. Once it drops below 100F, she will have her puppies within 24 hours. Best of luck.

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.

Hi and thanks for posting on Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! When taking temperature to help predict when whelping will be, be sure to take the temperature at the same time every day to ensure consistency. If the temperature drops below 99F, Molly will likely give birth to her puppies within 24 hours. I hope this helps and thanks again for posting!

I would start taking Gypsie's temperature twice daily rectally. A dog's normal temperature is between 101-102.5F. Once it drops below 100F, she should have her puppies within 24 hours. When you see that temperature drop, I would stay at home with her to observe her and know if there are any problems occurring. Usually the dog doesn't need any help, but I will put a link to an article below with things to look out for during labor and when to seek veterinary help. I hope this helps! https://www.2ndchance.info/caninelaborstages.htm

Great question! Once her temperature drops below 100F, Bell should give birth to her puppies in 24 hours. If 24 hours pass after the initial temperature drop with no sign of puppies, she will need to see a vet immediately, as she will need help giving birth to them safely.

You can see puppies moving up to a week before giving birth. Take Bell's temperature rectally twice a day. A dog's normal temperature is between 101-102.5F. Once it drops below 100F, she should have her puppies within 24 hours.